As your parents
get older, their care needs will inevitably increase and evolve.
Be prepared for
these changes with the following care checklist:
Have you discussed their care with them?
Involving them
in decisions about their care will take the fear of failure out of their
long-term solution and give them a chance to voice their wishes throughout the
process. You could try asking them what extra needs they have and what type of
care would suit them best.
If you are
comfortable, you can ask them about any medical conditions that may affect
their care, and even speak to their GP, with their permission, to get more information.
Have you considered different types of care?
Depending on
your parents’ medical conditions, overall health and fitness, social lives, and
commitments, levels and types of care are available to suit all. The two
umbrella types are:
·
Independent
living – the person remains in suitable housing and receives visits from care
or nursing staff.
·
Assisted
living – the individual lives in a residential facility that offers 24-hour
care.
The type of care suitable will be dependant on many factors
and will change with time. Whichever option is most suitable, a comprehensive
and tailor-made care plan will be created by the team and shared with staff to
maximise the quality of care.
Does the care I have chosen restrict my parents?
Much like buying
a new home, all wishes cannot be met, however, considering what will be lost
with the introduction of care is useful in weighing up the advantages and
disadvantages.
Your parents may
be looking forward to being in a new community where they can regularly
interact with others, or if they have a strong social life within their home
community, may fear the loss of established relationships.
Does the care I have chosen meet all of my parents’
needs?
As mentioned
above, sometimes it can prove unrealistic to try to meet every need, especially
if the location is an important factor. However, when visiting residential
homes and enquiring with home-care providers, be sure to ask the following
questions and note down the answers:
·
What
is included in the fee? What will cost extra?
·
How,
and by whom, are your meals prepared?
·
How
often do residents get the chance to go outdoors? - And offsite?
·
When
can I visit my parents?
·
How
do you adapt to the changing needs of a resident?
·
Can
I view a recent activity schedule?
·
What
will be in their room?
·
Will
my parents have access to the internet?
A local solution…
Located in Buckinghamshire
is Cliveden Manor, a luxury care home in ascot. Which offers views of the Thames
valley, rooms with elevated patio areas, an elegant salon, outstanding dining
experiences, open-plan design and pools of natural light, all coated in
contemporary, modern design.
A resident’s
relative reviewed Cliveden Manor as “not hushed, tucked away and smelling of
cabbage, but full of life, visitors and flowers”.
In conclusion
Communication is
key when it comes to care! Talk to your loved ones about their preferences and
listen to their concerns. Check that you have chosen the right care for your
parents with this comprehensive checklist.
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