What Happens if an Elderly Person Has no one to Care for Them?

The Benefits of Homecare for People of All Ages
The Benefits of Homecare for People of All Ages

What Happens if an Elderly Person Has No One to Care for Them?

As people grow older, their needs often change and they may rely on loved ones to help with the challenges that aging can bring. However, family or friends may not be available to provide support and what happens if an elderly person has no one to care for them? Without adequate assistance, a range of difficulties can occur, impacting health, safety, and quality of life. Homecare provides an option whereby the right care can be provided in the comfort of the home, designed for personal care needs, creating peace of mind.

Homecare with Myhomecare

• Each client has their own needs and requirements which is why we don’t believe in a one size fits all approach.
• Our tailor-made homecare services and packages cover a wide range of services from basic home help and befriending to advanced nursing care and supported hospital discharge.
• Our carers enjoy their roles and remain working with us, so you have a familiar face who knows your specific needs and routines.

Contact Myhomecare today and see how it can benefit you and your loved one.

Physical Health Challenges

For elderly individuals, physical health concerns can increase without someone to monitor or assist them. They are more susceptible to illnesses, falls, and injuries, and medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and arthritis often require consistent management.
Without someone to regularly check in, health conditions can go unnoticed until they become severe. A minor infection may go untreated and turn into a serious health risk. The risk of falls is also a major concern; an elderly person who falls without someone nearby may face hours or even days without help, resulting in critical complications.

Myhomecare’s Comfort Plan

Myhomecare’s Comfort Plan allows individuals to choose two pieces of Isaac Care assistive technologies as an introductory offer with expert advice from our team who are there to assist you with selecting the most appropriate technology for your loved one. This includes a Fall Alarm as well as 24/7 Call Centre Support. Find out more about Myhomecare’s collaboration with Isaac Care.

Myhomecare Testimonials

“I am delighted and more importantly my mother is over the moon with the care she receives, we would love to have Siobhan our Carer around more. I want to thank Myhomecare for a brilliant service”.
Ann

“I have arthritis in my hands and as it has got worse I am unable to drive my car.  With the help of Joan from www.myhomecare.ie I have been able to get around and continue my life as normal.”
Margaret

Mental and Emotional Health Risks

Isolation poses severe risks for mental and emotional well-being. Loneliness is a common experience for elderly people without family or friends nearby. Without companionship or daily engagement, they may struggle with motivation, leading to poor self-care habits such as neglecting exercise, nutrition, or hygiene. Homecare can reduce these feelings of isolation and lend emotional support on a daily basis. Even a quick chat can make someone’s day when living alone.

Daily Life Challenges

In addition to health concerns, seniors without support often face practical daily challenges. Financial management, for instance, can become difficult for those who may no longer have the cognitive ability or awareness to handle bills or budgeting.
Mobility is another concern. Many elderly individuals lose the ability to drive or walk long distances, which can limit their access to groceries or medical appointments. This is where homecare can help by assisting with running errands and daily household chores.

Elderly man, care worker and home care

At Myhomecare, we provide a service to all individuals who may suffer with a disability whether it is physical, mental or emotional and have a range of homecare options available. No one should have to face the challenges of aging alone. Without proper support, elderly individuals are at greater risk of physical and mental health decline, financial exploitation, and a diminished quality of life. Taking proactive steps to offer the right care from the right people is something every individual deserves, regardless of family circumstances, allowing them to age with dignity and security.

The Benefits of Homecare for People of All Ages

The Benefits of Homecare for People of All Ages
The Benefits of Homecare for People of All Ages

The Benefits of Homecare for People of All Ages

Many families are turning to homecare as a way to provide the best possible care instead of sending their loved ones to a long-term facility. Caring for a loved one can be difficult and expensive, however homecare is becoming increasingly popular among people of all ages who want the comfort and convenience of receiving professional health services in a familiar environment, without sacrificing quality medical attention. The benefits of homecare for people of all ages, from young children right through to seniors, can be seen in many different aspects of daily life.

Around 70 % of those using home healthcare services are aged 65 and older.

Need help deciding what type of homecare is right for your loved one?

Elderly woman and caregiver. Types of Homecare Services Available: Our Guide for Families

Independence and Comfort

Aging adults can maintain their independence by staying in their familiar home environment, which often contributes to a sense of comfort and security. Homecare allows individuals to follow their daily routines and engage in activities they enjoy, enhancing their quality of life. This provides a unique solution and offers personalised care in the comfort of one’s own home promoting routine and consistency for those who thrive on familiarity. It aids in the preservation of relationships and community involvement.

Individuals of all ages can benefit from these services. For those recovering from surgery or illness, it can aid in a speedier recovery and promote overall wellness and other such benefits.

  • Remaining in Familiar Surroundings: One of the most significant advantages of homecare is that it enables individuals, particularly seniors, to stay in their own homes. This allows the person receiving care to maintain a sense of independence and control over their living environment.
  • Preserving Daily Routines: It allows individuals to follow their daily routines and habits. They can wake up and go to bed at their preferred times, eat the foods they enjoy, and engage in activities that give them a sense of purpose. This consistency can be reassuring and comforting, especially for those dealing with cognitive conditions like dementia.
  • Emotional Comfort: Being in a home environment can provide emotional comfort. Home is where individuals have made memories and feel safe, and this sense of comfort can be particularly crucial for seniors and those dealing with health challenges.
  • Familiarity: It allows individuals to be surrounded by their belongings, pets, and loved ones. These familiar elements can bring a deep sense of comfort, reassurance, and happiness.

Myhomecare Testimonial

I have had homecare assistance for my sister since the early part of this year 2022. I have found them to be courteous, helpful and efficient especially if there is a problem which has arisen. They are always contactable.”

Noeleen-Dublin

The Benefits of Homecare for People of All Ages

Personalised Care

Whether a senior, someone living with a disability, or a busy family in need of support, homecare services can be tailored to meet individual needs. Personalised care allows the caregiver to understand the unique circumstances of the person they are looking after, and provide for them in the best way possible. This approach to creating care and care plans goes beyond a person’s surface needs and takes their preferences, cultural background, interests and routines into account. Personalised care is not just about keeping someone safe, its about enhancing their quality of life. This type of care can build a deeper rapport between the carer and the person in need of care, which helps to remove any feelings of loneliness or isolation, making a big difference in someone’s life.

  • Flexibility: Homecare adapts to changing circumstances and evolving needs. Care plans can be modified as the individual’s health status changes, ensuring that they continue to receive appropriate care and support. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those with progressive conditions or recovering from surgery or illness.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Providers take cultural and personal preferences into account when delivering care as they become familiar with the individual. This sensitivity to cultural, dietary, and religious considerations can lead to better, individualised care.
  • Comprehensive Services: Agencies often offer a wide range of services, including personal care, companionship, medication management, physical therapy, and specialised care for conditions like dementia or diabetes. These services can be combined and customised to address an individual’s specific health and lifestyle requirements.

Cost-Effective

Homecare is often more cost-effective than inpatient care in hospitals or long-term care facilities. It can help reduce healthcare costs while still delivering high-quality care and is an ideal solution for those who wish to receive personalised attention without going over budget. These services often have transparent pricing structures, making it easier for individuals and their families to budget for care. From daily living tasks to medical assistance, it provides a range of services that cater to each individual’s unique needs while being cost-effective.

  • Lower Overhead Costs: Homecare agencies do not have the same overhead costs as hospitals or long-term care facilities. They don’t need to maintain large facilities, pay for utilities on a massive scale, or provide round-the-clock staffing in the same way. This results in lower operating costs, which can be passed on to the patient.
  • Reduced Hospital Readmissions: It can help prevent hospital readmissions by providing ongoing monitoring and care management. Hospital readmissions can be expensive, and reducing them can lead to significant cost savings for both patients and healthcare systems.
  • Flexible Scheduling: Care can be scheduled as needed, providing flexibility in care delivery. This can be more cost-effective than paying for 24/7 care in a facility, especially if the individual only requires assistance for a few hours a day.

Homecare with Myhomecare

• Each client has their own needs and requirements which is why we don’t believe in a one size fits all approach.
• Our tailor-made homecare services and packages cover a wide range of services from basic home help and befriending to advanced nursing care and supported hospital discharge.
• Our carers enjoy their roles and remain working with us, so you have a familiar face who knows your specific needs and routines.

Contact Myhomecare today to see how it can benefit you or your loved one.

Staying connected to the community in unique and meaningful ways is possible and an invaluable care service that can be tailored according to each individual’s personal needs, maintains independence and comfort as well as being cost-effective. Whether it’s for seniors looking to age at home in comfort, individuals recovering from surgery or illness, or those with chronic conditions, it’s a type of care that supports them all individually.

Assistive Technology and its Role in Homecare

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider
Assistive Technology and its Role in Homecare

Assistive Technology and its Role in Homecare

As homecare needs increase for families and elderly alike, so does the necessity to find solutions to help those being cared for. Assistive technology has become a popular option among families to help them to manage their family care from the comfort of their own homes. From devices designed to detect signs of falls and other emergencies, to apps that aid communication between providers and patients, this technologically advanced solution is playing a more important role now more than ever before. We take a look at assistive technology and its role in homecare and how it assists with aspects of daily living.

The World Health Organisation estimates that:

Today 2.5 billion people need one or more assistive products such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, or apps that support communication and cognition.

1. Mobility and Accessibility

Assistive technology aids mobility and accessibility, together they are essential aspects of homecare, especially for loved ones with disabilities. From motorised wheelchairs to mobility scooters, these devices provide newfound independence and freedom. Ensuring that the home is designed and equipped to accommodate these needs can greatly enhance independence, safety, and overall quality of life.

Assistive Technology and its Role in Homecare

Mobility and accessibility considerations that can be used at home:

  • Wheelchair accessibility: involves turning spaces into larger areas to accommodate the wheelchair’s dimensions and widening doorways.
  • Ramps and lifts: for homes with stairs, ramps or stairlifts can be installed instead to provide safe and accessible passage between different levels.
  • Bathroom accessibility: this can include roll-in showers, raised toilets, shower seats, and non-slip flooring to reduce the risk of falls.
  • Grab bars and handrails: strategically placed grab bars and handrails in areas like hallways, staircases, bathrooms, and bedrooms provide support and stability for individuals to move around safely.

2. Remote Health Monitoring

Remote health monitoring in homecare involves the use of technology to gather and transmit health-related data from patients’ homes to healthcare providers or caregivers. This approach allows for continuous monitoring of a person’s health status, vital signs, and other relevant information without the need for in-person visits to a healthcare facility. It has become increasingly important in modern healthcare, offering numerous benefits for both patients and healthcare providers. This is especially useful for elderly or chronically ill individuals who require regular monitoring.

elderly man and assistive technology

Key components and aspects of remote health monitoring in homecare include:

  • Wearable devices and sensors: patients can wear devices like smartwatches, fitness trackers, blood pressure monitors, glucose meters, and pulse oximeters that collect real-time data on vital signs, physical activity, sleep patterns, and more.
  • Telehealth and telemedicine: remote health monitoring often integrates with telehealth and telemedicine services, enabling virtual consultations between patients and healthcare providers. Video calls, voice chats, and messaging platforms allow for real-time communication and assessment.
  • Fall detection and prevention: sensors placed throughout the home can detect falls or irregular movements, triggering alerts to caregivers or emergency services. This is especially important for older adults at risk of falling.
  • Caregiver support: caregivers and family members can also benefit from remote health monitoring by staying informed about their loved one’s health status and receiving phone/app alerts if there are any concerning changes.

Myhomecare and Assistive Technology

At Myhomecare, we are constantly looking for ways to leverage technology to improve the care we provide. Myhomecare has proudly partnered with Isaac Care, to bring innovative and easy-to-use assistive technology to our clients nationwide. Offering a unique combination of technology and care, supporting people to live independently in their own homes. Isaac Care’s technology allows us to provide wraparound 24/7 support to our clients and provides comfort and peace of mind when our dedicated staff and family members can’t be present. It consists of the following features:

Assistive Technology and its Role in Homecare
  • “Circle of Care” family caring app: groups of people involved in the person’s care are kept up to date with real-time instant in-app notifications.
  • Discreet home sensors: a discreet way of detecting activity around the home, with useful security and safeguarding applications.
  • Industry-leading wearable devices: the Isaac Fall Alarm is a smart, easy-to-use, personal alarm that offers reassurance that your loved one can instantly access help whenever they need it.
  • Health monitoring: the Isaac health monitoring kit allows for easy and effective monitoring of a person’s health from the comfort of their own home.

Myhomecare’s clinical team continuously monitor changes in health trends over time from information provided by Isaac Care’s assistive technology. The use of data driven decision making and early interventions leads to reduced hospital admissions and better patient outcomes, further enhancing the quality of care delivered by Myhomecare’s team.

By leveraging the benefits of assistive technology, we can provide reassurance, personalised care and support to our valued customers in the setting of their own homes.

3. Environmental Controls

Lights, temperature control, and even appliances can be managed with the touch of a button or with voice commands. This technology offers not only convenience but can allow individuals to control various aspects of their environment, such as opening and closing curtains, adjusting lighting, and operating electronic devices. These tools can drastically improve the quality of life for those with disabilities or physical challenges as they don’t need to move around the house frequently.

Assistive Technology and its Role in Homecare

Environmental controls that can help life become more convenient at home:

  • Adjustable furniture and beds: adjustable-height beds, recliners, and ergonomic furniture can be controlled to provide optimal comfort and support for individuals with mobility or positioning needs.
  • Security and safety features: home security and surveillance systems can be integrated into environmental control systems, allowing individuals to monitor and control cameras, alarms, and access points.
  • Voice-activated systems: voice recognition technology enables individuals to operate appliances, lights, fans, and other devices through spoken commands, making it easier for those with limited mobility to manage their surroundings.
  • Automated doors and windows: automated door openers and window controls make it easier for individuals with limited mobility to access different areas of the home and control ventilation.

It is clear that assistive technology has numerous benefits when it comes to homecare, whether it’s promoting independence, enhancing safety and mobility, tracking health and improving the overall quality of life for loved ones with disabilities or limitations. By addressing various aspects of daily living and healthcare, Myhomecare uses assistive technology along with the right people with the right skills and knowledge in the right place. This empowers individuals to remain in their homes and communities while receiving the support they need.

Find out more about the packages we have on offer.

National Carers Week 2023

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider

Celebrating National Carers Week 2023 at Myhomecare

Carers Week is dedicated to recognizing and supporting the incredible work performed by carers. This year, National Carers Week has joined forces with The Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland, Acquired Brain Injury Ireland, Care Alliance Ireland, Disability Federation of Ireland, Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Ireland, CRC (Central Remedial Clinic), Irish Cancer Society, The Irish Hospice Foundation, MS Ireland, St. Michael’s House, Jack and Jill, and We Love To Talk.

The theme for this year is #MakingCaringVisible, and in celebration of this, Myhomecare has chosen to put the spotlight on some of our exceptional carers, showcasing their dedication and commitment to making a difference in the lives of those they care for.

Join Our Award-Winning Homecare Team Today

If you would like to join our award-winning homecare team or start your carer in caring contact us today!

Maria Haydee

Carers Name: María Haydeé Fernández Hernández
Location: Dublin South

How long have you worked as a Carer?
I started working as a Carer in November 2020, but I’m a health carer worker since 2017.

Why did you choose caring as a profession?
I consider myself a compassionate person and I like making a positive difference in people lives.

How long have you been a member of the Myhomecare Team?
I started working with Myhomecare in July 2022.

What do you enjoy most about being a Carer?
I enjoy being an active member in the community where I live, helping people and making a positive impact in their lives.

Do you have any advice for someone who would like a career in care?
Be passionate about what you do, have empathy for people and always do good because good will come back to you.

Nazrul Islam Kazi

Carers Name: Nazrul Islam Kazi
Location: Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford

How long have you worked as a Carer?
I have been working as a carer for over 10 years.

Why did you choose caring as a profession?
Working in the care sector is an incredibly rewarding job, so it’s no wonder that it is one of the most commonly spoken about reasons to be a carer. Everyday you will be making a difference to someone’s quality of life, supporting them to remain living in their own home, independently.

How long have you been a member of the Myhomecare Team?
I have been working for Myhomecare for nearly 5 years now.

What do you enjoy most about being a Carer?
My favourite aspect of being a carer is making a difference in other people’s lives. I know what I do helps them to stay living independently in their own homes. My clients love to see me walking in the door. Caring for other people makes me feel valued.

Do you have any advice for someone who would like a career in care?
My best advice for those who want a career in care is, you will need to have a passion for helping others. As such, it is important to have a compassionate and empathic personality. Patience is also key, and it’s important to try to put yourself in the client’s shoes. It helps to have a cheerful, outgoing, and friendly personality and good listening skills. As a care assistant, you will have a responsibility to maintain the dignity of your patients. As such, discretion and professionalism are crucial qualities. Reliability, honesty and punctuality are also important traits.

Jane Achums

Carers Name: Jane Achums
Location: Dublin North East

Click on the video below to hear Jane’s story

Greg Little

Carers Name: Greg Little
Location: Limerick

Click on the video below to hear Greg’s story

John Kelly

Carers Name: John Kelly
Location: West of Ireland

How long have you worked as a Carer?
I have worked as a carer for four and a half years.

Why did you choose caring as a profession?
I chose caring as a profession to contribute to my community in a positive way. I was also very interested in health care.

How long have you been a member of the Myhomecare Team?
I am working with Myhomecare since December of 2022.

What do you enjoy most about being a Carer?
I enjoy helping vulnerable people in a positive way.

Do you have any advice for someone who would like a career in care?
It’s important to be yourself and always remember that many of the things we do is common sense. Another good tip is to communicate regularly with your booking coordinator.