Tag: homecare

Advice for Older People, Age Friendly Advice

Types of Homecare Services Available: Our Guide for Families

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider
Caregiver and old woman

Types of Homecare Services Available: Our Guide for Families

Many families worry that they don’t have the time or resources needed to properly take care of their loved ones, but help is available in the form of homecare services. These services are available for loved ones in need of medical care and support. This support can be required for various reasons such as illness, disability or old age. There are several types of homecare services available and our guide for families will assist in helping you to make an informed decision about which one is best for your loved one.

Every care setting needs to be staffed by the right people, which is exactly what Myhomecare provides: the right people, with the right skills and knowledge in the right place, at home. Ensuring your loved one receives the care they need while remaining in familiar surroundings.

Did You Know?

From 2020 to 2050 it is estimated that the Irish
population aged over 65 will increase by 82.2% from 14.6 (thousand) to 26.6 (thousand).
This will result in them requiring health and
social care services as they age.

Two hands Types Types of Homecare Services Available: Our Guide for Families

Personal Care Services

This involves the caregiver offering assistance with a variety of daily tasks. Sometimes the simplest of tasks can be difficult to do when you are ill or elderly. A personal care assistant is there to ensure that your loved one is able to maintain their independence and quality of life in the comfort of their own home. With compassion and strong attention to detail, personal care assistants can make a real difference for families seeking to give their loved ones the care and attention they deserve. While being extremely useful, it helps to make life easier and more manageable daily and can include:

  • Personal hygiene care: Includes assistance with bathing, oral hygiene, hair care and dressing.
  • Incontinence care: transferring your loved one to and from the toilet and other related toileting tasks.
  • Mobility and transfer support: the caregiver can assist with transferring your loved one from one location to the other using mobility aids.

Personal care services maintain cleanliness and comfort for your loved one within their own home so they don’t have to worry. It empowers them to live with dignity in the knowledge that they will receive the best possible care.

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 packages cover a wide range of services.

From basic home help and befriending, to advanced nursing care and supported hospital discharge, you can find out more in our brochure.

Myhomecare Brochure

Homemaker Services

Taking care of a home can be a big task for an elderly or sick loved one. Sometimes assistance is needed to make sure everything runs smoothly. Homemaker services can provide the necessary support for those who need help with daily tasks, reducing the strain on family members. These services can improve the quality of life for your loved one and may involve the following:

  • Doing laundry
  • Washing dishes
  • Shopping for food and other items
  • Light housekeeping such as cleaning and dusting
  • Maintaining a safe and clean home environment in general

The above can contribute to a functional and stress-free environment for everyone involved. Tasks carried out by the caregiver can vary and depend on the needs and abilities in a way that supports your loved one best.

Respite Services

When a loved one needs medical care at home, it can be overwhelming for families to know where to turn. That’s where respite services come in. It is understandable to be nervous about entrusting a stranger with such an important responsibility, but with the right respite service, you can feel confident that you loved one’s needs are in good hands. This type of care involves:

  • Wound care and dressing changes
  • Medication management in the form of pills or injections
  • Physical therapy to help with rehabilitation after an accident, injury or medical operation
  • Managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension

Whether it’s a few hours a day or a few weeks a year, respite services offer a break from the demands of caregiving from family members, while ensuring your loved one receives the attention and care they need to feel well again.

By understanding these options, it is possible to make informed decisions and choose the right type of home care services that can help provide comfort and quality of life. As a compassionate guide, we are here to support and navigate these options with you.

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

Contact Us Today
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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Career Advice, General

Myhomecare Supporting Professional Development with QQI-certified People Management

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider

Myhomecare Supporting Professional Development with QQI-certified People Management

Homecare management is a critical aspect of healthcare in Ireland, and professional development in this field is essential for ensuring high-quality care for patients. The homecare industry in Ireland is growing rapidly, and as such, it’s important for homecare managers to stay up-to-date with the latest skills and knowledge to manage their teams effectively.

Recognising the importance of continuous professional development within the healthcare sector, Myhomecare has developed ‘The Care Academy’, which envelops all the training internal and frontline staff need to progress within their career.  

A particular milestone of The Care Academy is the undertaking of the QQI-certified People Management Course by the Myhomecare managerial team. The course covers a range of topics, including leadership skills, communication skills, team management, and conflict resolution. It’s designed to help homecare professionals develop the skills and knowledge they need to manage their teams effectively, build positive relationships with clients and their families, and deliver high-quality care.

It covers key topics such as understanding EU Legislation, equality and diversity and the key principles of management. This can lead to new career opportunities, such as promotions or opportunities to manage larger teams.

One of the key benefits of the QQI People Management Course is that it’s a nationally, HSE, recognised qualification. This means that homecare professionals who complete the course will have valuable credentials that they can use to advance their careers. By completing the course, it demonstrates to our clients that the Myhomecare team have the right skills and knowledge required to effectively deliver excellence in service.

Our team have a wealth of experience in the homecare industry, with many starting as Healthcare Assistant’s, progressing to supervisory and managerial positions. The completion of the QQI People Management Course enables our experienced team to nurture their skills and knowledge and continue to progress their career whilst ensuring Myhomecare is continuing to provide patient-centered high quality care.

What is People Management Course (QQI Level 6) 


The QQI Level 6 certification in Managing People, is awarded following a 3-day interactive workshop that covers a blend of theoretical learning with practical activities to build upon management techniques and improve confidence.

The QQI People Management Course provides learners with a comprehensive understanding of people management. This course covers everything from communication skills to conflict resolution, employee development, and performance management. By taking this course, learners can develop a deeper understanding of the intricacies of people management, and learn how to apply this knowledge in their day-to-day work.

It is designed to provide learners with practical tools and techniques that they can use in the workplace. This means that learners will not only learn theory, but they will also learn how to apply this theory to real-world situations. By taking this course, learners can develop their practical skills, which can help them to become more effective managers.

The course is suited to all levels; providing an excellent foundation for new managers, allowing experienced managers to delve deeper into motivational management, and for those looking to transition to a managerial role. For those frontline staff that would like to progress their career within a managerial role, they too can avail of the subsidised QQI-certified People Management Course via the Care Academy.

Overall, the QQI People Management Course is an excellent opportunity for homecare professionals to develop their skills and knowledge. Whether you’re looking to advance your career or simply improve your abilities as a homecare professional, this course can help you achieve your goals. By completing the course, you will be better equipped to manage your team effectively, communicate with clients and their families, and deliver high-quality care.

The Myhomecare Care Academy


The Care Academy focuses on improving the quality of existing staff by providing upskilling opportunities, allowing those who want to advance their career in healthcare an advantageous starting point. There has always been a particular emphasis on upskilling and career progression within Myhomecare with exceptional ongoing training provided and further supported by Servisource’s Training department.

It is from this strong foundation that The Care Academy has been developed. As a result, a comprehensive catalog of training courses is available to support internal and frontline staff in providing the highest quality of service, where they can train, develop and coach care workers throughout each stage of their careers.

Professional development is essential for homecare managers in Ireland to continuously improve upon their skills and knowledge to manage their teams effectively. The Care Academy offers supportive training and career progression for aspiring carers, as well as subsidised courses for those with experience requiring QQI Level 5 accreditation in healthcare or QQI Level 6 accreditation in people Management.

Through the Myhomecare Care Academy, it ensures that the right people, with the right skills and knowledge, will be provided in the right place, your home.

Myhomecare Care Academy

The Myhomecare Care Academy is the one-stop shop for aspiring Carers, offering training and career progression support and guidance. The Care Academy also offers the opportunity for those with experience requiring QQI Level 5 accreditation in healthcare courses to be subsidised.

Submit Your Interest

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Advice for Older People

Keep Well This Winter

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider

Keep Well This Winter

Winter in Ireland is a gloomy time of year. The dark days can be lonely and it’s easy to get sick or have weather related accidents. Each winter, vulnerable people are more susceptible to hospital visits which can put pressure on emergency departments and acute hospitals.

Cold air and gloomy skies can make anyone feel less cheerful during the winter months. However, depression can have an outsized effect on seniors and their long-term mental health. Creating opportunities for socialization and finding joyful moments isn’t just for fun – it can help foster critical connection and combat loneliness. There are a variety of uplifting activities that can be enjoyed during the winter months. These include movie nights, and getting outside on a rare sunny day.

It’s important for everyone to stay safe this winter, but it is particularly important for older adults so stay safe. Older adults can lose body heat fast—faster than when they were young. Changes in your body that come with aging can make it harder for you to be aware of getting cold. A big chill can turn into a dangerous problem before an older person even knows what’s happening. Doctors call this serious problem hypothermia.

What is Hypothermia?

Hypothermia is a medical condition that occurs when your body temperature drops below 35°C. When this happens, the body’s internal organs don’t work properly. This can cause serious health problems, such as heart failure.

Older adults are especially at risk for developing hypothermia. This is because their bodies are not as efficient at regulating temperature and they may be more vulnerable to the cold due to age-related changes in body composition, such as reduced muscle mass. Older adults may also lack the awareness of how to protect themselves from the cold and may not recognize early signs of hypothermia, such as confusion or shivering.

The best way to keep older adults safe this winter is to prevent hypothermia before it starts. This means dressing warmly in layers and avoiding prolonged exposure to cold temperatures, especially when windy or wet. It’s also important to ensure that the home is adequately

5 Ways to Stay Well This Winter


1. Wrap up warm – Make sure you wrap up well when going out, as cold weather can increase the risk of illnesses such as colds and flu. Wear several layers of clothing to help keep your body temperature steady and wear a hat, scarf and gloves when necessary

2. Eat well – Eating nutritious meals is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. Choose nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins to stay energized and help ward off winter illnesses.

3. Stay active – Regular exercise can help boost your immune system, reduce stress and make you feel better in general. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity, such as walking or cycling, for five days a week.

4. Get enough sleep – Lack of sleep can make you more susceptible to illnesses. Aim for seven to nine hours of good quality sleep each night and try to stick to regular sleeping patterns throughout the winter months.

5. Stay social – Socializing with family and friends can help reduce stress and make you feel more connected. Try to arrange regular catch-ups with people, whether virtually or in person, depending on the local restrictions. Doing activities together such as online quizzes, walks or watching a movie are all great ways to pass the time and stay social during the winter months

By following these tips, older adults can stay healthy and safe during the winter months. It’s important to take care of yourself in order to avoid any illnesses or health risks caused by cold weather. Stay warm, eat nutritiously and enjoy the company of family and friends this winter!

How Myhomecare Can Help

Our goal is to provide uplifting home care that benefits those who need caring and their families. tailor-made home care services and packages cover a wide range of services from basic home help and befriending to advanced nursing care and supported hospital discharge.

Our home care service doesn’t stop at providing nurses or carers. Myhomecare can offer routine medical services such as vaccinations or pharmacy delivery in the comfort of your own home. We also work 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.

So if you are looking for someone to assist you with shopping, 24 homecare packages or nursing care for a loved one, contact us today here.

How Isaac Care Can Help

Isaac Care’s aim is to lower hospital visits as care can be given at home instead. Isaac’s early intervention at the first sign of declining health prevents the need for hospital admissions, creates a reduction in readmission rates and reduces demand for GP visits.

Isaac Fall Alarm connects to the Isaac Care app providing real time updates to families. It ensures there is help when you need it, whenever you need it. It is also a GPS enabled fall alarm and is ideal for people of all ages who are concerned about their wellbeing and safety both at home, and while out and about. You can find out more about the Isaac Care Fall Alarm here.

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