I’m sure we all agree that growing old is a privilege denied to many, and that wisdom and experience gained is certainly cause for celebration; however, one of the most frustrating things about getting older is when we begin to struggle with the simple tasks that need to be performed in our everyday lives. Illness, decreased mobility and failing sight are just some of the age-related problems that could mean that even the simplest of activities such as running a vacuum round or washing the dishes can become a struggle.
For many older people who live alone – particularly those who have lost a partner or who don’t regularly see friends or family members – the inability to easily get on with their everyday routine comes a close second to loneliness as one of the top reasons they might be feeling stressed, anxious or depressed. So, what can you do if the mind and body is willing, but the strength or mobility is lacking?
Often the answer will be making use of a service such as in-home care. Many people might not realise that this type of care is tailored to the individual, it’s not just for those who need extensive or daily care. And of course there are other options open to you such as meal-delivery services, shopping delivery, as well as gardeners and cleaners…
Housekeeping
This is often the area that people with age or mobility related problems seek help with. Housework can be very physical work (think how tiring it is changing a duvet or vacuuming the stairs!)
Of course one option is to hire a cleaner; you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to finding a company or independent cleaner offering their services, but this could work out expensive, and they won’t necessarily be able to fit in at a time most convenient to you and your routine – it’ll most probably be whichever time slot they have free!
In-home care services can provide light housekeeping services that fit in around your routine, or even assist you in performing the duties yourself if it’s more a case of needing an extra pair of hands rather than having someone do it for you. You can arrange for some help around the home on a weekly, fortnightly, or even monthly basis, all depending on the level and frequency of help you require.
Further reading: What home care support is available
Shopping And Running Errands
We live in an age where online shopping deliveries are commonplace – and in the current climate probably preferred! But for those who are older and maybe don’t have access to the internet, aren’t tech-savvy, or even would just prefer to be able to browse in person, having some in-home care assistance can be very helpful.
It could be that you need someone to help with transportation and to assist you in-store to help ease any mobility or even anxiety or confidence issues. Or perhaps you tire easily or have painful joints, and would therefore prefer a carer to go shopping for you.
This doesn’t just apply to grocery shopping; errands such as posting letters, picking up prescriptions or medications, or going to the dry cleaners can all be daily chores that become a struggle with age and that we may need help with.
Meal Preparation And Cooking
Not having proper nutrition can take a real toll on someone’s health – particularly if they are older and maybe living with an illness or condition. Frozen dinners, takeaways and food delivery services can all be adequate short-term solutions; but they can also prove expensive and won’t necessarily be the healthiest idea in the long run.
Nothing beats a home-cooked meal prepared with fresh ingredients, and is something that in-home care could help you with. From helping you take things in and out of the oven and assisting with chopping veg, to doing the washing up afterwards, having someone to help out with a mealtime routine ensures that an older person can stick to their regular routine and diet for as long as possible in their own home.
Further reading: “How to prevent loneliness as we get older”
Personal Care
Let’s face it, personal care is probably bottom of the list of things we want someone to assist us with, but the truth is that as we get older the things we used to take for granted such as getting in and out of the shower or bath unaided, washing our own hair, dressing, or even using the toilet, can suddenly seem like insurmountable tasks. Whether it’s because of ill health, loss of mobility, or just feeling weaker or more afraid of slipping or falling than before, having in-home care means that you’ll be able to continue looking and feeling your best.
Trained carers have a passion for their work and will always carry out any tasks involving helping a client with their personal care with the utmost respect and dignity. Having help with shaving, washing and other personal grooming can be a godsend to those who have started to struggle and can return someone’s confidence and sense of self – which is invaluable.
If you would like to know more about the types of assistance in-home care can provide, why not contact us at Care In Kent? We’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have about what we can offer in the way of in-home care for either yourself or a friend or relative. Click here to get in touch