Questions about Live in Care

We have put together a few of the most questions and answers we are asked regarding Live in Care.

We have put together a few of the most questions and answers we are asked regarding Live in Care.

Q1

I have heard about live in care but I’m not really sure what it entails. Can you explain exactly what it is?

A1

Live in care is a realistic and affordable alternative to residential care allowing an individual to remain independent, comfortable and secure within the setting of their own home and avoids the cost and upheaval of “moving into a home.” As the name suggests it involves a Personal Assistant actually living in the house with you.

Live-in care can also be a short term care solution following a stay in hospital, to assist in taking a holiday or to give your friends and family or regular carer a break or support.

Live in care comes into its own when, typically, someone needs a personal assistant around the house at various times of the day. This may involve all aspects of care (assistance with getting up, washing, personal hygiene, meal preparation, etc.) and generally ‘keeping house’. The need may include shopping or accompanying on visits to friends or appointments.

The Personal Assistant (PA) can also help with pastimes and activities if required. The PA should be trained to be active when required but to be unobtrusive and retiring when their presence is not needed. Hence, the Personal Assistant will need a bedroom of their own.

Q2

I am 84 years old gentleman living alone but I struggle with day to day tasks.  I would like to organize some live-In care. Can you tell me what I should be looking for from a care provider?

A2

You should be seeking a quality care provider with a good reputation. The provider should offer you  a free, no obligation consultation so as to give you, and perhaps a family member or trusted friend, the opportunity to ask all your questions face to face. The provider should be offering a flexible service that is tailor made to suit you. I would strongly recommend that you choose a provider that has a local office. This ensures the management team are close at hand to give you on-going support and they are ready to respond to your requirements every day of the year. As your needs change they are nearby to react to ensure you always feel in control.

You should question the care provider about how they choose their staff. The Personal Assistants should be employed directly by the Care Provider and undergo a comprehensive recruitment process to ensure that they are suitable, possess the right skills, experience, and attitude and are compassionate and caring. This process should also include a full criminal record check as required throughout the United Kingdom, pre-employment checks, and a full training programme.

Q3. We have been looking at care homes for our mother but there seems to be a great variation in quality and price. She says that ideally she would prefer to stay living in her own home but is concerned about the cost. Can you offer any advice please?

A3

It is difficult to comment on price and it is, perhaps, more useful to consider value for money. Clearly, everyone wants the best possible care for themselves or a loved one so finding a quality, local provider in the first instance is a priority.

I strongly suggest you seek independent expert advice from a reputable financial advisor who has particular knowledge of financial products and services to the later life market. There are many ways to fund later life care and it is essential you choose the most appropriate scheme to suit your mother. A good provider should be able to provide you with a competitive quote that you can compare with the cost of residential care. The cost may depend on the level of dependency and may require a face to face consultation. Remember, live in care is on a one to one basis whereas the ratio in residential care may be less favourable.

If you would like to speak to Bluebird Care personally regarding any care matter please

TEL:  0113 258 9677

EMAIL: leedsnorth@bluebirdcare.co.uk

www.bluebirdcare.co.uk/leeds_north