Category: Caregiver Advice

Advice for Older People, Age Friendly Advice, Caregiver Advice, Home Care Advice

Tips for Families in Managing the Cost of Homecare

Tips for Families in Managing the Cost of Homecare
Tips for Families in Managing the Cost of Homecare

Tips for Families in Managing the Cost of Homecare

Caring for a loved one at home can bring immeasurable joy and satisfaction, but it can also present financial challenges for families. The cost of care can take a toll both financially and emotionally, creating a sense of confusion in trying to find the best balance between quality care and affordability. We will provide some tips for families in managing the cost of homecare in order to make an informed decision when seeking assistance and to ease any worries and stress.

Did You Know?

Over two-thirds of family carers in Ireland are in financial distress, a survey by Family Carers Ireland has found.

Tips for Families in Managing the Cost of Homecare

Investigate grants

The expenses of homecare services can add up quickly and become overwhelming. However, there are various grants available in Ireland for those in need. It may take some research to see which one suits your family’s needs best, but these resources can make a significant difference in easing the burden of expenses.

  • The Fair Deal scheme: The NHSS, also known as Fair Deal, is a scheme under which the cost of nursing homecare is managed through the HSE paying either the full amount or part of it.
  • Tax relief: the Revenue Commissioners in Ireland offer tax relief for certain healthcare costs, including homecare services.
  • Carer’s Support Grant: The Carer’s Support Grant is an annual payment made to carers who get Carer’s Allowance, Carer’s Benefit or Domiciliary Care Allowance (DCA). It can also be paid to certain other carers providing full-time care. Carers can use the grant in whatever way they wish.
  • The HSE Home Support Service: aims to support older people to remain in their own homes for as long as possible and to support informal carers. 

You can also contact your county council or community welfare officer to inquire about any available grants or financial aid programmes designed to support homecare services.

Homecare Packages:

• These are the services of nurses, homecare attendants, home helps and the various therapists including physiotherapists and occupational therapists funded by the HSE. 
• This scheme was set up in order to increase homecare support and home help.
• To avail of the scheme, a means or income test will need to be carried out.

If you are interested in this, we can assist you on how best to apply for one.

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Two hands and Tips for Families in Managing the Cost of Homecare

Part-time care

As the price of full-time care can be very costly, families are increasingly turning to part-time homecare solutions as a way to manage. By hiring part-time carers, it is easier to manage the cost of homecare without sacrificing the quality of care. It can reduce overall expenses while still offering many of the services and attention that full-time care may provide.

These compassionate caregivers are available for a few hours a day or week, providing the necessary help with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, and medication reminders. Not only does this solution offer more flexibility and control over the budget, but it also allows for a more personalised care plan that is tailored to your loved one’s needs allowing them to remain independent.

Cheaper homecare doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality, and part-time carers can help find the balance needed.

Create a budget

When it comes to managing the cost of homecare, creating a budget can be a helpful tool. Whether you are caring for a loved one or seeking assistance for yourself, understanding the expenses that come with homecare is crucial. From hiring caregivers to purchasing medical supplies, it can all add up quickly. Creating a budget can help you determine what you can realistically afford and identify areas where you may need to cut back or seek financial assistance. It is best to develop a comprehensive budget that includes all of the expenses relating to care such as:

  • Caregiver fees: assess whether these are weekly or monthly expenses and whether it is part-time or full-time.
  • Medical supplies: it is important to know what medical supplies are needed such as dressings in case of accidents, hearing aids, and walking aids.
  • Transportation costs: does this need to be paid to the caregiver and how far are they traveling?
  • Home modifications: these can be expensive and range from safety bars to installing ramps for wheelchair users.

By creating a budget, you can take a proactive step toward managing the expenses of homecare with compassion and care.

Homecare expenses can be challenging to manage, however within the stresses and strains of finances the options above can help to reduce costs while ensuring your loved one’s individual needs are being looked after. By taking proactive steps, discussing your budget and long-term care plans early on, and researching financial aid options and grants, it can make a big difference on the strain that comes with managing expenses.

It is vital your loved one receives the right care from the right people no matter what the budget may be.

Need help deciding what type of homecare is right for your loved one?

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Elderly woman and caregiver. Types of Homecare Services Available: Our Guide for Families

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Caregiver Advice

Top Tips for Caregivers in Homecare

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider

Top Tips for Caregivers in Homecare

Being a care worker means more than just playing an important role in the lives of those being cared for—it is also very rewarding. It involves providing social and health services to elderly people and those with disabilities. This can include helping them with daily activities such as bathing, grooming, dressing, general errands and medical issues. There are times when it can be a demanding role, requiring both empathy and technical skill to provide effective support for those who rely on it. To make this responsibility easier, the following top tips for caregivers in homecare will help them provide excellent quality of service as well as allow them to feel supported and capable.

Did You Know?

Figures published today by the CSO from the Irish Health Survey 2019 estimate that 1 in 8 people in Ireland aged over 15 are family carers. 

Set realistic expectations

Setting realistic expectations for yourself and your loved one or client is crucial. It can be challenging to navigate the uncertainty that comes with caregiving, and without proper expectations, it’s easy to become overwhelmed or disappointed. The correct expectations allows everyone to remain happy and this can be done in a number of different ways:

  • Assess your loved one’s or client’s condition and identify their needs. This can include speaking with their doctor or family members. Ask questions: How serious is their illness? What medications are they on?
  • Create a plan of action that takes into account your own capabilities and limitations. How often can you visit? What physical tasks can you perform?
  • Communicate these expectations so you both know what to expect and everyone is clear about how the care will be given. Make time to sit down and discuss everything.
  • Because it is a fast moving industry where safety is vital, continuously upskilling is a must. At Myhomecare, our Care Academy provides a range of courses for those working in this industry. The Care Academy’s focal point is on improving the quality of existing staff by providing upskilling opportunities.

The Care Academy allows those who sign up to work with us the chance to advance their career in healthcare an advantageous starting point.
It guides them and helps them advance in their career aspirations.

The Care Academy and Top Tips for Caregivers in Homecare

Remember that caregiving is a process that requires patience and compassion. By setting realistic expectations and approaching your role with a positive mindset, you can do this in the best possible way.

Establish a support network

Establishing a support network for yourself will provide you with the emotional and practical support you need to navigate the ups and downs of caregiving. Caring for a loved one or client can be fulfilling but it can also be challenging and stressful at times. They are depending on you and there is a lot of responsibility involved in this. At Myhomecare, we ensure everyone feels supported and accommodated which is evident from our client testimonials.

Narrow down the resources that are most relevant to your situation. Your support network can include family members, friends, neighbours, and professionals such as social workers or counselors. Look for resources in the form of support groups, online forums, and educational materials that offer practical advice and emotional support such as the following:

  • The HSE: Provides health services directly and funds voluntary organisations to provide support and services to individuals and their Carers.
  • Care Alliance Ireland: The National Network of Voluntary Organisations supporting Family Carers.
  • Government: Offers a Carer’s Support Grant as an annual payment.

By reaching out to others for help, you can reduce your own stress levels and improve your overall well-being, which in turn can benefit both you and the people you care for. Remember that you are not alone and with the right support, you can navigate through your work with more ease and confidence.

Take time for self-care

It can be easy to lose track of your own needs while focusing on the needs of those you care for. Taking care of yourself is just as necessary as taking care of others as it can be a demanding and emotionally taxing experience. One way to make this happen is by setting aside time each day for personal self-care with the below actions.

  • Take a warm bath with Epsom salts which help to ease muscle pain. Especially effective after a long day of physical activity.
  • Wake up 15 minutes earlier to meditate or do some gentle yoga which can clear your head and prepare you for the day.
  • Read a book to help to relax the mind.
  • Make sure to eat well and get quality sleep so that you can feel at your best and stay healthy.
  • Meet up with friends and remember to stay involved in outside activities such as hiking and sports activities on your days off.

It may be challenging to find the time to take care of yourself, however, prioritising your own needs will ultimately create a better work environment as you will have the energy and mental clarity to give more.

There are a range of benefits while working with Myhomecare. With the option of flexible working hours that suit you and excellent rates of pay, it is a truly fulfilling profession.

Following these top tips will ensure the correct care is given and the process is not so daunting or stressful, but rewarding and enjoyed. This type of career is a one‐of‐a‐kind experience with loved ones and clients receiving the very best of care, in the right place, their home.

Get in touch wit us today to find out more about our support and upskilling courses at The Care Academy.

The Care Academy

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Advice for Older People, Age Friendly Advice, Caregiver Advice

The Benefits of Homecare for Seniors: Maintaining Independence and Quality of Life

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider

The Benefits of Homecare for Seniors: Maintaining Independence and Quality of Life

Are you looking for ways to ensure that your elderly loved one is looked after? One of the best options is homecare. It has a range of benefits, not only does it keep your loved one safe but it also enables them to remain comfortable and independent in their own homes. It allows for personalised care from trained caregivers while ensuring a good quality of life. Homecare for seniors is important as care itself is an inevitable part of aging. Here are some key benefits on how homecare for seniors helps to maintain independence and a better quality of life.

Maintaining Independence

One of the key benefits of homecare for your loved one is that it allows them to maintain their independence, which is extremely important in life for everyone. When this sense of independence is provided, they are able to live with dignity in their own homes. They are then safe in the knowledge that they will receive the best possible care. Aging can bring with it various health challenges such as mobility issues, and other conditions that can make it difficult for your loved one to live on their own. However, with homecare, your loved one can receive the support they need while still living independently. In fact, evidence has shown that people are happier and live longer within their own homes. 

Here are some ways homecare can help your loved one maintain their independence:

Personal care: Support bathing, dressing and grooming.
Mobility support: Support getting in and out of bed, walking, and using a wheelchair.
Medication management: Managing their medications, ensuring they are taking their medications as prescribed.
Home safety: Making their homes safer, such as installing grab bars, modifying bathrooms, and removing tripping hazards.

Home care nurse giving medication to an elderly man medica

Your loved one can continue to live in their own homes and carry out their daily routines with the help of a caregiver. Homecare services can also be tailored to meet the individual needs of your loved one allowing them to retain a sense of familiarity.

At Myhomecare, each client has their own needs and requirements which is why we don’t believe in a one size fits all approach. Our tailor-made homecare services and bespoke packages cover a wide range of services from basic home help, to advanced nursing care and supported hospital discharge.

Home care worker visiting elderly woman

Myhomecare can offer routine medical services such as vaccinations or pharmacy deliveries in the comfort of your loved one’s home. Myhomecare also works with medical practitioners and suppliers to provide a wide range of supportive solutions such as home adaptations, essential medical supplies and partnership with your primary care team.

Myhomecare’s Technology for Independence

Myhomecare’s combined approach to care and technology supports independence for all age groups. Caregivers and nurses promote the use of app technology which features reminders for appointments, low-intensity exercise programmes and medication reminders.

At Myhomecare, we believe in providing the highest quality care and support services to our clients 24/7. This is why we have partnered with Isaac Care, a world class assistive technology solution. Isaac Care supports independence by combining care and technology, including monitoring health and wellbeing, a fall alarm and a circle of care app. 

Myhomecare’s Isaac Care:

Isaac Care provides a complete wraparound service, including remote health monitoring with 24/7 support, underpinned by a network of dedicated personal carers.
This allows your loved one to feel safe at home while they live independently.

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Isaac Care App for Independence

Providing independence to your loved one can have numerous benefits. It is important that they are provided with a standard of life they wish to live, growing old should not mean a lesser life. With sufficient homecare and assisted living technology, they can maintain their sense of self while having sufficient support when needed.

Quality of Life

Senior man in wheelchair with home care provider

Being able to provide your loved one with the best quality of life is something every family wishes for. When your loved one can perform tasks and carry out activities when they want, safe in the knowledge care is available to them, this greatly enhances their state of wellbeing. By providing the below, homecare can significantly help loved ones live their lives to the fullest.

Homecare tailored to the individual needs and preferences for your loved one. This helps ensure they receive the specific support they need.

Personalised Care

Personalised Care

With homecare, your loved one can receive care in their own homes, promoting a sense of comfort and familiarity.

Comfort and Convenience

Comfort and Convenience

Homecare providers can assist your loved one with hobbies such as gardening, painting and playing games. Helping them maintain a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Hobbies and Interests

Hobbies and Interests

As your loved one receives the support they need to manage their health conditions in their own homes, their health outcomes and overall quality of life are greatly improved.

Reduced Hospitalisations

Reduced Hospitalisations

Homecare provides your loved one with a familiar and comfortable environment, which can help reduce feelings of anxiety and loneliness. They can continue to enjoy their hobbies or can keep visiting friends and family. Homecare providers can also provide companionship, which is important for overall mental and emotional well-being. By giving families that reassurance, they are then provided with a peace of mind, knowing that their loved one is being taken care of and is safe in their own home. This takes the stress off of an otherwise worrying situation. Here is a testimonial from one of our happy clients:

Ireen gives my mother the attention she needs, her personal hygiene is especially looked after and she loves the company. Delighted with the service!

Homecare for your loved one can help to maintain their independence, improve their quality of life, provide comfort, offer tailor-made care, and provide peace of mind. If you are considering homecare for your loved one, be sure to do your research and find a reputable provider, allowing your loved one to be taken care of in the best possible way.

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Our dedicated team are on hand to assist you in any way.

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Advice for Older People, Caregiver Advice, General

International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) 2022

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider

International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2022

Today is International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), a day that was proclaimed in 1992 by the United Nations General Assembly resolution. The team at Myhomecare recognise this as a very important day and how people with disabilities deserve to have their dignity, rights and general well-being met. Servisource are equal opportunities employers and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. We recognise that a diverse and inclusive workplace will better our relationships and services with our clients, our candidates, our communities and one another. We want you to Be You, Be Kind, and Be Proud.

The theme this year is “Transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fueling an accessible and equitable world”, which aims to bring awareness towards disabilities of all kinds and to promote an understanding of the issues surrounding disability.

Disability can be defined as a mental health, sensory, intellectual or physical condition that restricts a person’s activities, senses or movements. It is important to recognise the unique challenges people living with a disability face on a daily basis.

This year’s theme is based around 3 different topics:

  • Innovation for disability inclusive development in employment:  Linkages between employment, knowledge and skills required to access employment in an innovative, rapidly changing technological landscape to all.
  • Innovation for disability inclusive development in reducing inequality: Innovations, practical tools and good practices to reduce inequalities in both public and private sectors, which are disability inclusive and interested in promoting diversity in the workplace. 
  • Innovation for disability inclusive development: A sector where all of these aspects coalesce; sport as a good practice example and a site of innovation, employment and equity. 

Challenges People with Disabilities Face

Recognising and becoming aware of the challenges facing people with disabilities is the first step in creating an equal society that can cater to their needs in both a work and home environment. These challenges can be social, educational and economic. Let’s have a look at these in more detail.

  • Social Challenges

Social isolation is a huge factor and one of the most severe challenges facing people with disabilities today. Community engagement can be difficult for people with mental impairments which is then exacerbated in rural areas where access to group activities isn’t so accessible. This is why community activities should be in an environment that suits everybody and are as accessible as can be.

  • Educational Challenges

Students or teachers may be faced with a lack of access such as ramps or elevators within an educational setting. Some institutions may not have adequate funding for special needs support and so they struggle with keeping up with their peers. At Myhomecare we provide premium community care services to children with both special needs and special care requirements throughout Ireland which you can see on our brochure.

  • Economic Challenges

People with disabilities also report being paid less than their colleagues despite having similar qualifications. Businesses are encouraged to hire people with disabilities and with matching them to jobs that suit their skill sets. They should have the same opportunities as co-workers and be treated equally within any workforce. At Servisource, we make sure everyone is included and that awareness around disability and inclusivity is spread throughout the company. This means awareness talks are arranged by experts and guest speakers that employees can take part in.

Did You Know?

  • Around 15% of the worlds population live with disabilities
  • An Estimated 286 million of the worlds working-age people have some kind of disability
  • People with disabilities are the world’s largest minority

How Myhomecare Caters to Your Needs and Disabilities

At Myhomecare, tailor-made homecare services are available which enables clients to be looked after in the best possible way that suits their needs because we know that disabilities come in all shapes and forms. We also work with medical practitioners and suppliers to provide a wide range of supportive solutions such as:

  • Home Adaptations
  • Essential Medical Supplies
  • Partnership with your Primary Care Team

Allowing clients to be as independent as possible is what Myhomecare deems extremely important and they want to make life as easy as possible for each individual. Our homecare services include Domestic Home Help, Paediatric Care as well as Palliative Care. You can find out more about our care services here.

Myhomecare has a combined approach to care and technology whereby our caregivers and nurses promote the use of app technology with the following features to provide you or your loved one with the utmost of care. This is why they have partnered with the Isaac Care app, which caters to an array of disabilities. The app offers a range of free features including:

  • Appointment reminders
  • Medication reminders
  • Fall alarm
  • Vitals monitoring

You can find out more about the easy-to-use Isaac Care app and all of its assistive technology features here.

How to Access our Care

We want to make accessing healthcare as easy as possible so here is our 4-step guide

  • Free consultation to assess the nature and level of care needed.
  • Design a care plan to meet your individual requirements with the advice, care and support of the MDT.
  • Assign a homecare team to match your needs.
  • Our dedicated Homecare Nurse Manager will continuously monitor and review the service delivery to ensure you are entirely satisfied with the care provided.

You can contact us to find your local Myhomecare office and you or your loved one can begin their journey into care with our team.

Get in Touch

Our dedicated team are on hand to assist you in any way.
Contact us on +1 800 400 900 or email us info@myhomecare.ie and one of our team will be in touch.

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