Posted on January 20th, 2009 | Comments (0)
Reaching an age where everyday tasks become difficult can be a trying time for people that were once strong and independent, and sometimes the suggested move to a one of the many care homes around can bring with it feelings of helplessness. When it is time for an elderly relative to move from independent accommodation to somewhere where help is on hand, the family needs to rally around and help decide what action is best for their wellbeing. At present, there is a choice between moving into an annex with family, taking up residence in sheltered housing or making the move into a care home. Here we take a look at each of these options to help you weigh up which option might be the right one.
For families that have plenty of room and indeed enough of a family unit to support such a decision, bringing a relative into an annex in a family home is a way of offering independence within a supported environment. Presently, legislation states that for a home to be used for care purposes, a living area that incorporates a sleeping area and an en suite bathroom needs to be provided. This option is a great solution for being on call with a helping hand for an independent elderly person, offering a more personal way of caring for a family member. However, if there is a great geographical distance between homes and no-one is willing to relocate, it is worth considering a move to sheltered housing.
Sheltered accommodation is often considered to be under the care homes umbrella, but it is in fact more akin to the type of accommodation a student would be living in at University. Full independence is maintained, but under the watchful eye of a warden. This is a suitable option for those who still wish to live in their own home, but like the idea of knowing that someone is watching over them. This removes fear of attack within the home and burglary as well as offering peace of mind should an accident happen. Residents in Sheltered accommodation often move on in later years to care homes in a bid to keep a stance of independence from family ties and for the social interaction offered.
Care homes come in many shapes, sizes, varieties and locations and have a number of differing features depending on the type of resident it wants to attract. Making a move to a care home is often a decision that has been made after an elderly relative has had a holiday in one. Residential homes offer places for people to have a short weekend break or en extended holiday as a way of offering respite from independent living or as a place to go should families that are carers go away. The attraction of care homes is in the social environment mixed with a level of independence and the offer of healthcare where it is needed.
The social network in care homes offers plenty of activities and pastimes for all interests and alleviates the pressure that can be experienced if caring for an elderly relative in the home. The delicate balance of freedom and independence versus adequate care needs to be judged correctly so that a satisfactory solution can be found that ultimately brings the most happiness.
About the Author
Dom Donaldson is an expert in the care industry.
Find out more about Care Homes and what they have to offer for residents at Healthcare Homes.
Article Source: Content for Reprint
You may also like:
Comments (0)
The following content represents the opinions of Fitness2Health.com users. It is not editorially reviewed for medical or factual accuracy and does not constitute medical advice.
