What care options are available for those in later life?

Families going through the emotional stress of placing a spouse or relative into care, often tell us they find the terminology confusing so this blog aims to help explain the different types of care available. Understandably, most elderly people want to live independently in their own home for as long as they can. But many people are not aware of what their local options are.

Thankfully we are incredibly lucky living in Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Sevenoaks, as there are so many options available, dependent on the needs of the individual, be it assisted living, residential or respite care. With the care sector and the over 80s being a priority group receiving the first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine, you can be assured of the stringent safety and security procedures in place already and should be confident of the high levels of care that have been maintained whatever route you chose to pursue.

Assisted living

This option allows you to remain fully independent. You usually have your own self-contained, secure flat, allowing you to stay active and go out as and when you want to, but with the added benefit of carers available to provide support when you need it.

Home care

This option works by supporting individuals in their own home with whatever they need. It could be something as simple as helping with domestic chores, such as preparing and cooking meals, personal care, dressing and medication management, or making sure that pets are fed. Each person is different and will require a different level of care suitable for their needs.

Live-in care

When someone wants to remain in their own home but realises but they need support round the clock, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Care providers are available to stay in their home and support at all times.

Residential care

This involves moving full time into a residential care home where safe and secure accommodation and care is provided to those who can’t manage to live independently in their own home. A home provides a stable, warm and friendly environment where residents receive round the clock care and feel part of a bigger family with others.

Nursing care

similar to residential care, but with supervision by a registered nurse, who is available 24/7 to provide and administer medical treatment.

Respite care

This option allows you to receive short term support in your own home or a short stay in a residential home. It’s especially useful and welcomed for existing carers, such as family members, to allow them to take a break for a while, safe in the knowledge their loved one continues to receive the support they need.

Additional resources and help

You or a loved one’s general health or a current care situation may change quickly. There’s always professional, friendly support on hand to help you.   Which provide a useful glossary of terms and have a useful online calculator to help you understand potential costs.

As one of the leading care homes and at home care providers in Kent, Birchwood provides a team of highly skilled people to provide care both in our residential home in Speldhurst and for those in their own home through our Care Services team in and around Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Sevenoaks. They are genuinely caring people who go the extra mile, day in, day out. With the guidance of the Birchwood Promise, the team look after our clients in the same way they would like to be looked after.

If you’re thinking of arranging care for a loved one or friend, please complete our online enquiry form, call us on 01892 863559 or email us at birchwood@birchwoodhouse.org.uk.