What are the alternatives to care homes?

If you or a loved one requires extra care and support to live independently, it’s important to know that alternative options are available to care homes. An increasingly popular option is receiving professional care and support in your home. At-home care can provide you with the support you need to thrive independently while allowing you to remain in the comfort and familiarity of home. At Prestige Nursing & Care, we understand that every individual has unique needs and preferences when it comes to care. With over 75 years of experience in the care sector, we have a wealth of knowledge and expertise in providing high-quality care that is compassionate, reliable, and professional.

Whether you or your loved one requires support with daily tasks, companionship, or specialist nurse-led care, we can help. Our care services include hourly care, respite care, and specialist care for conditions such as dementia, Parkinson’s, and stroke.

If you’re looking for an alternative to care homes that provides personalised care and support, contact us today. We understand that the prospect of going into a care home can feel overwhelming, but rest assured that you have choices. We’ll be happy to discuss them with you.

COMMON ALTERNATIVES TO CARE HOMES

When it comes to alternatives to care homes, there are several options to consider. Here are some of the most common:

HOURLY CARE

Hourly care, also known as domiciliary care, offers individuals the opportunity to receive professional care services within the comfort and familiarity of their own homes. This option is particularly beneficial for those seeking to maintain their independence while still receiving the necessary support and assistance with daily tasks.

Home care may be a suitable solution if your loved one is struggling with personal care routines, such as bathing, dressing, or medication management. It provides a tailored approach to care that caters to the specific needs and preferences of the individual. Moreover, if your loved one prefers to remain in their own home and it’s still suitable and safe for them to do so, home care offers a viable alternative to moving into a care facility.

Home care services can be arranged through either a home care agency or a private carer. The level of care and support provided can vary based on individual requirements. Some individuals may only need assistance for a few hours a week, while others may require full-time care.

Live-in care is a specialised form of home care where the professional carer resides with the client in their home to ensure round-the-clock support and assistance. Depending on the arrangement, some carers may live in permanently, while others may work on a rotational basis, such as two weeks on and two weeks off.

While home care agencies strive to maintain consistency in care provision, there may be instances where different staff members are assigned, particularly during periods of staff shortages such as holidays or sickness. Despite potential variations in caregivers, the primary goal of home care remains to deliver high-quality, personalised support that enables individuals to remain independent and comfortable in their own homes.

MOVING IN WITH FAMILY

Moving in with family members presents an opportunity for people to receive care and support within the familiar and nurturing environment of their own family. This arrangement not only ensures practical assistance but also fosters emotional bonds and strengthens family relationships.

Living with family provides continuous companionship and emotional support, which can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation, particularly for older adults. Being surrounded by loved ones creates a sense of security and belonging, enhancing overall well-being.

Additionally, moving in with family can often be a more cost-effective alternative to formal care settings, as it eliminates the need for expensive residential care fees. Sharing living expenses and resources within the family household can help reduce financial strain while still ensuring high-quality care and support.

Running a household alone can be demanding, both physically and emotionally. Moving in with family members allows individuals to share responsibilities and tasks, making daily living more manageable and enjoyable. This arrangement promotes a better quality of life by providing practical assistance and relieving stress.

Many older adults worry about living alone and the potential risks associated with emergencies or accidents. Moving in with family members offers a sense of safety and security, knowing that help is readily available in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

Living with family provides opportunities for shared experiences and quality time together, strengthening familial bonds and creating cherished memories. It allows family members to reconnect, build stronger relationships, and enjoy meaningful interactions on a daily basis.

However, it’s essential to acknowledge that moving in with family is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and planning. Depending on individual circumstances and preferences, it may not be feasible or suitable for everyone.

Open communication, mutual understanding, and respect for everyone’s needs and boundaries are essential for ensuring the success of this arrangement. Ultimately, moving in with family can offer numerous benefits, but it’s crucial to assess its suitability and feasibility for all parties involved before making a final decision.

SHELTERED HOUSING

Sheltered housing offers older adults a tailored living arrangement that promotes independence while ensuring access to essential support services. Typically comprising self-contained flats with communal amenities, this housing option provides a sense of autonomy and privacy while fostering a supportive community environment.

Residents benefit from the presence of a warden or scheme manager who oversees maintenance and repairs, offering assistance as needed. Additionally, each property is equipped with a 24-hour emergency alarm system, providing peace of mind and prompt assistance in case of emergencies.

While sheltered housing schemes do not typically provide medical or nursing care, variations like ‘extra care’ housing offer a higher level of support. In these arrangements, residents receive assistance with daily tasks such as personal care and meal preparation, enhancing overall well-being within a comfortable and secure living environment.

RETIREMENT VILLAGES

Retirement villages cater to older adults seeking to preserve their independence while enjoying access to essential support services and amenities. These communities are thoughtfully designed to provide residents with a comfortable and enriching lifestyle, offering a variety of facilities and conveniences.

Residents of retirement villages benefit from a range of amenities aimed at promoting physical activity, social engagement, and personal enrichment. These may include on-site gyms for exercise and fitness, libraries for intellectual stimulation, and communal spaces for socialising and recreational activities.

The emphasis on independence within retirement villages allows residents to maintain control over their daily routines and lifestyles while also having peace of mind knowing that support services are readily available if needed. This combination of autonomy and accessibility makes retirement villages an attractive housing option for older adults looking to enjoy their golden years to the fullest.

HOME CARE VS CARE HOMES

When it comes to caring for people who require assistance with daily living, there are two main major options: at-home care and care homes. Both options offer different levels of care and support, and their choice ultimately depends on the individual’s needs and preferences.

Despite both options having their advantages, it is hard to match the level of dedicated, one-to-one care you will receive from care at home. Here is a comparison of some of the benefits:

THE BENEFITS OF RECEIVING CARE AT HOME

There really is no place like home to receive the care you need. Here are just some of the many compelling benefits of receiving care in the comfort and safety of home:

• Enjoy personalised one-to-one care and support.
• Care is provided in the comfort and safety of familiar surroundings. This is particularly beneficial for those living with conditions like dementia or Parkinson’s.
• Maintain your independence and flexibility, allowing you to choose how you want to live your life at home.
• Keep your treasured home in your family, avoiding the need to sell the family home to fund care home fees.
• Stay together with your spouse or partner, enjoying the loving companionship of each other and avoiding separation.
• Keep the things that are important to you in life, including cherished pets, possessions, and social connections within your local community or hobbies that you enjoy
• Receiving care at home is often cost-effective.

WHAT IS THE FIRST STEP?

When you believe a loved one requires assistance to maintain independence or may benefit from supportive accommodation, the first step is to request a care needs assessment. This assessment is available to anyone over 18 and can be obtained from your local authority’s social care services department.

It’s important to note that this assessment is a fundamental right and is provided free of charge. Initiating this process is crucial for accessing the appropriate level of care and support tailored to your loved one’s specific needs.

Learn more about the care needs assessment to ensure your loved ones get the support they’re entitled to. 

EXPERT HOME CARE FROM PRESTIGE

Regarding care options, several alternatives to care homes are available, including sheltered housing, retirement villages and home care. Each option has its benefits and drawbacks depending on an individual’s needs and preferences. However, it is hard to match the levels of one-to-one dedicated care, receiving care in your own home.

Care at home allows you to receive highly personalised care and support in the comfort and familiarity of your own home. It can also be more cost-effective than a care home, and the care provided can be tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

At Prestige Nursing & Care, we offer a range of at-home care services that are designed to provide the highest level of support and care to our clients. Our team of experienced and compassionate carers is dedicated to ensuring that our clients receive the care they need while maintaining their independence and dignity.

ARRANGE CARE AT HOME

We are here to help you and your family every step of the way. You can call us on 0808 239 1525 and one of our friendly care advisors will provide information, guidance and advice on your care options.

We offer a free home consultation at no obligation to you. One of our care advisors will meet with you and your family to discuss how Prestige Nursing & Care provides the care your loved ones need to continue living a fulfilling life at home.