Finding Peace of Mind with Live in Care

This blog post tells the story of Helen, a daughter who found comfort and relief for her mother with Alzheimer’s disease through live in care. We’ll explore the challenges Helen faced, why they chose live in care, and the positive impact it’s had on their lives.

 

Facing the Challenges of Alzheimer’s

Helen’s mother, diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, initially managed well on her own. However, as the disease progressed, she required increasing assistance with daily tasks and experienced falls at night. This caused significant worry for Helen and her sister, Anne, who lived closer to their mother.

 

The Limitations of Traditional Care

Initially, they used a visiting care service, but it became too expensive for 24/7 care. Additionally, finding someone reliable for night-time assistance with a home care agency was a concern. A care home was an option, but their mother strongly preferred the familiarity and comfort of her own home.

 

Considering Live in Care

Helen and Anne explored live in care as an alternative. While their mother initially resisted the idea of someone living in their home, they presented it as the only way to stay at home, which their mother strongly preferred.

 

Continue reading or WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW HERE

 

Choosing the Right Live in Care Provider

When researching companies, Helen prioritised fair pay for carers and positive testimonials. Having a friend’s recommendation for The Live In Care Company added an element of trust.

 

Apprehensions and Reassurances

Live in care was a big decision for Helen and her family. While it offered a potential solution for their mother’s needs, it also came with a number of anxieties. Let’s delve deeper into these apprehensions and how The Live In Care Company addressed them, ultimately leading to Helen’s peace of mind.

Compatibility Concerns: Would their mother, used to her own routines and space, accept a stranger living in her home?

• Reassurance: The Live In Care Company uses a meticulous matching process, considering personalities, interests, and communication styles. Helen had the opportunity to interview several carers through video calls, allowing them to assess compatibility before making a decision.

Backup Support: What if the chosen carer gets sick or needs a break?

• Reassurance: The Live In Care Company provides comprehensive backup support. Detailed handovers ensure a smooth transition if a replacement carer is needed. Additionally, 24/7 support ensures there’s always someone available to address any concerns.

Cultural Barriers: Their mother spoke a different language and had specific cultural needs.

• Reassurance: The Live In Care Company employs a diverse team of carers with over 60 languages spoken. The carers are experienced catering to various cultural preferences and are comfortable adapting to specific needs.

Cost Transparency: Live in care can come with a higher price tag than hourly care (depending on the number of hours)

• Reassurance: The Live In Care Company offered a clear breakdown of costs, including fees, salary transparency for the carer, and any additional expenses. This allowed Helen and Anne to make an informed financial decision.

 

Finding the Perfect Fit

Helen described the positive experience of meeting different carers via video calls. The chosen carer, impressed Helen with her gentle and respectful attitude.

 

Positive Outcomes

Live in care has brought a multitude of positive changes to not only Helen’s mother’s life but also the lives of Helen and Anne. Here’s a closer look at the flourishing environment it has created:

Enhanced Well-being for Mum:

• Improved Safety and Security: With the carers constant presence, Helen’s mother no longer faces the risk of falls at night. This not only reduces the worry of injuries but also allows her to sleep soundly, promoting better overall health.
• Structured Routine and Reduced Anxiety: The live in carer assists with establishing a consistent daily routine, including mealtimes, medication management, and physical activity. This predictability helps manage her condition and reduces confusion and anxiety, often associated with Alzheimer’s.
• Rekindled Social Engagement: The carer encourages Helen’s mother to participate in activities she previously enjoyed, like attending church services. This social interaction provides mental stimulation, combats feelings of isolation, and improves her overall well-being.
• Improved Nutrition and Weight Gain: The live in carer tailors meals to her preferences and ensures a healthy diet. This has led to weight gain, a significant factor in maintaining strength and overall health in individuals with Alzheimer’s.

Peace of Mind for the Family:

• Reduced Stress and Worry: Knowing their mother is receiving exceptional care has significantly reduced stress for Helen and Anne. They can focus on maintaining their own lives while being confident in their mother’s well-being.
• Improved Communication and Connection: The WhatsApp group with the carer allows for regular updates and communication. This ongoing connection fosters a sense of involvement and allows them to stay informed about their mother’s daily life.
• Potential for Future Interaction: The possibility of video calls with Helen’s mother offers an exciting prospect for maintaining a closer connection despite the distance. This can provide emotional support for both Helen’s mother and Helen herself.

 

Conclusion

Live in care has been a successful solution for Helen’s family. It has allowed their mother to remain at home while receiving the care she needs, and has significantly reduced stress and worry for Helen and Anne.