The best time to seek advice about eldercare
I posted this article on my website in January this year:
“One of the most common questions I am asked is, when is the best time to take advice about care and support?
My answer is simple; it is never too early to take advice. The fact is that many people like to have a better understanding of how our health and social care system works, what the care options are out there and how care is funded, before the need arises, particularly given the coverage in the press about “the state of the NHS” and our aging population. They want to do their homework.
The reality is that the majority of families wait until they have concerns or even a crisis which may arise from an acute illness, a fall or maybe an incidence of stranger abuse on the doorstep, for example. The sooner an open, honest and sensitive conversation is had, the sooner simple preventative measures can be put in place to reduce the risk of a crisis which may lead to a hospital admission that might have been avoided.
It is my experience that many older people are nervous of admitting to having difficulties with daily activities for fear of losing control of the situation or are fearful that this may be the start of the slippery slope into a care home. However there is so much that can be done to help an older person retain their independence and safety in their own home, if only they knew where to look, who to speak to and the questions to ask.
If this strikes a chord with you, do give me a call”.
My message is clearly echoed in an article published in the Guardian last week. Our health and social care system is confusing at the best of times but never more so than when struggling with the emotional fall out associated with an older person’s loss of independence and a possible move from the home they have lived in for many years.
https://www.theguardian.com/social-care-network/2018/feb/15/social-care-allowances-clarity-government-reform
Accurate information from a reliable and qualified source is vital. If you or someone you know is struggling with eldercare issues, please do get in touch.
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