Category: Age Friendly Advice

Advice for Older People, Age Friendly Advice, Caregiver Advice, Home Care Advice

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.

Contact Myhomecare Today

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Advice for Older People, Age Friendly Advice, Caregiver Advice, Home Care Advice

Tips for Families in Managing the Cost of Homecare

Tips for Families in Managing the Cost of Homecare
Tips for Families in Managing the Cost of Homecare

Tips for Families in Managing the Cost of Homecare

Caring for a loved one at home can bring immeasurable joy and satisfaction, but it can also present financial challenges for families. The cost of care can take a toll both financially and emotionally, creating a sense of confusion in trying to find the best balance between quality care and affordability. We will provide some tips for families in managing the cost of homecare in order to make an informed decision when seeking assistance and to ease any worries and stress.

Did You Know?

Over two-thirds of family carers in Ireland are in financial distress, a survey by Family Carers Ireland has found.

Tips for Families in Managing the Cost of Homecare

Investigate grants

The expenses of homecare services can add up quickly and become overwhelming. However, there are various grants available in Ireland for those in need. It may take some research to see which one suits your family’s needs best, but these resources can make a significant difference in easing the burden of expenses.

  • The Fair Deal scheme: The NHSS, also known as Fair Deal, is a scheme under which the cost of nursing homecare is managed through the HSE paying either the full amount or part of it.
  • Tax relief: the Revenue Commissioners in Ireland offer tax relief for certain healthcare costs, including homecare services.
  • Carer’s Support Grant: The Carer’s Support Grant is an annual payment made to carers who get Carer’s Allowance, Carer’s Benefit or Domiciliary Care Allowance (DCA). It can also be paid to certain other carers providing full-time care. Carers can use the grant in whatever way they wish.
  • The HSE Home Support Service: aims to support older people to remain in their own homes for as long as possible and to support informal carers. 

You can also contact your county council or community welfare officer to inquire about any available grants or financial aid programmes designed to support homecare services.

Homecare Packages:

• These are the services of nurses, homecare attendants, home helps and the various therapists including physiotherapists and occupational therapists funded by the HSE. 
• This scheme was set up in order to increase homecare support and home help.
• To avail of the scheme, a means or income test will need to be carried out.

If you are interested in this, we can assist you on how best to apply for one.

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Two hands and Tips for Families in Managing the Cost of Homecare

Part-time care

As the price of full-time care can be very costly, families are increasingly turning to part-time homecare solutions as a way to manage. By hiring part-time carers, it is easier to manage the cost of homecare without sacrificing the quality of care. It can reduce overall expenses while still offering many of the services and attention that full-time care may provide.

These compassionate caregivers are available for a few hours a day or week, providing the necessary help with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, and medication reminders. Not only does this solution offer more flexibility and control over the budget, but it also allows for a more personalised care plan that is tailored to your loved one’s needs allowing them to remain independent.

Cheaper homecare doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality, and part-time carers can help find the balance needed.

Create a budget

When it comes to managing the cost of homecare, creating a budget can be a helpful tool. Whether you are caring for a loved one or seeking assistance for yourself, understanding the expenses that come with homecare is crucial. From hiring caregivers to purchasing medical supplies, it can all add up quickly. Creating a budget can help you determine what you can realistically afford and identify areas where you may need to cut back or seek financial assistance. It is best to develop a comprehensive budget that includes all of the expenses relating to care such as:

  • Caregiver fees: assess whether these are weekly or monthly expenses and whether it is part-time or full-time.
  • Medical supplies: it is important to know what medical supplies are needed such as dressings in case of accidents, hearing aids, and walking aids.
  • Transportation costs: does this need to be paid to the caregiver and how far are they traveling?
  • Home modifications: these can be expensive and range from safety bars to installing ramps for wheelchair users.

By creating a budget, you can take a proactive step toward managing the expenses of homecare with compassion and care.

Homecare expenses can be challenging to manage, however within the stresses and strains of finances the options above can help to reduce costs while ensuring your loved one’s individual needs are being looked after. By taking proactive steps, discussing your budget and long-term care plans early on, and researching financial aid options and grants, it can make a big difference on the strain that comes with managing expenses.

It is vital your loved one receives the right care from the right people no matter what the budget may be.

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

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

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Types of Homecare Services Available: Our Guide for Families

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider
Caregiver and old woman

Types of Homecare Services Available: Our Guide for Families

Many families worry that they don’t have the time or resources needed to properly take care of their loved ones, but help is available in the form of homecare services. These services are available for loved ones in need of medical care and support. This support can be required for various reasons such as illness, disability or old age. There are several types of homecare services available and our guide for families will assist in helping you to make an informed decision about which one is best for your loved one.

Every care setting needs to be staffed by the right people, which is exactly what Myhomecare provides: the right people, with the right skills and knowledge in the right place, at home. Ensuring your loved one receives the care they need while remaining in familiar surroundings.

Did You Know?

From 2020 to 2050 it is estimated that the Irish
population aged over 65 will increase by 82.2% from 14.6 (thousand) to 26.6 (thousand).
This will result in them requiring health and
social care services as they age.

Two hands Types Types of Homecare Services Available: Our Guide for Families

Personal Care Services

This involves the caregiver offering assistance with a variety of daily tasks. Sometimes the simplest of tasks can be difficult to do when you are ill or elderly. A personal care assistant is there to ensure that your loved one is able to maintain their independence and quality of life in the comfort of their own home. With compassion and strong attention to detail, personal care assistants can make a real difference for families seeking to give their loved ones the care and attention they deserve. While being extremely useful, it helps to make life easier and more manageable daily and can include:

  • Personal hygiene care: Includes assistance with bathing, oral hygiene, hair care and dressing.
  • Incontinence care: transferring your loved one to and from the toilet and other related toileting tasks.
  • Mobility and transfer support: the caregiver can assist with transferring your loved one from one location to the other using mobility aids.

Personal care services maintain cleanliness and comfort for your loved one within their own home so they don’t have to worry. It empowers them to live with dignity in the knowledge that they will receive the best possible care.

At 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, you can find out more in our brochure.

Myhomecare Brochure

Homemaker Services

Taking care of a home can be a big task for an elderly or sick loved one. Sometimes assistance is needed to make sure everything runs smoothly. Homemaker services can provide the necessary support for those who need help with daily tasks, reducing the strain on family members. These services can improve the quality of life for your loved one and may involve the following:

  • Doing laundry
  • Washing dishes
  • Shopping for food and other items
  • Light housekeeping such as cleaning and dusting
  • Maintaining a safe and clean home environment in general

The above can contribute to a functional and stress-free environment for everyone involved. Tasks carried out by the caregiver can vary and depend on the needs and abilities in a way that supports your loved one best.

Respite Services

When a loved one needs medical care at home, it can be overwhelming for families to know where to turn. That’s where respite services come in. It is understandable to be nervous about entrusting a stranger with such an important responsibility, but with the right respite service, you can feel confident that you loved one’s needs are in good hands. This type of care involves:

  • Wound care and dressing changes
  • Medication management in the form of pills or injections
  • Physical therapy to help with rehabilitation after an accident, injury or medical operation
  • Managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension

Whether it’s a few hours a day or a few weeks a year, respite services offer a break from the demands of caregiving from family members, while ensuring your loved one receives the attention and care they need to feel well again.

By understanding these options, it is possible to make informed decisions and choose the right type of home care services that can help provide comfort and quality of life. As a compassionate guide, we are here to support and navigate these options with you.

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

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

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The Benefits of Homecare for Seniors: Maintaining Independence and Quality of Life

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider

The Benefits of Homecare for Seniors: Maintaining Independence and Quality of Life

Are you looking for ways to ensure that your elderly loved one is looked after? One of the best options is homecare. It has a range of benefits, not only does it keep your loved one safe but it also enables them to remain comfortable and independent in their own homes. It allows for personalised care from trained caregivers while ensuring a good quality of life. Homecare for seniors is important as care itself is an inevitable part of aging. Here are some key benefits on how homecare for seniors helps to maintain independence and a better quality of life.

Maintaining Independence

One of the key benefits of homecare for your loved one is that it allows them to maintain their independence, which is extremely important in life for everyone. When this sense of independence is provided, they are able to live with dignity in their own homes. They are then safe in the knowledge that they will receive the best possible care. Aging can bring with it various health challenges such as mobility issues, and other conditions that can make it difficult for your loved one to live on their own. However, with homecare, your loved one can receive the support they need while still living independently. In fact, evidence has shown that people are happier and live longer within their own homes. 

Here are some ways homecare can help your loved one maintain their independence:

Personal care: Support bathing, dressing and grooming.
Mobility support: Support getting in and out of bed, walking, and using a wheelchair.
Medication management: Managing their medications, ensuring they are taking their medications as prescribed.
Home safety: Making their homes safer, such as installing grab bars, modifying bathrooms, and removing tripping hazards.

Home care nurse giving medication to an elderly man medica

Your loved one can continue to live in their own homes and carry out their daily routines with the help of a caregiver. Homecare services can also be tailored to meet the individual needs of your loved one allowing them to retain a sense of familiarity.

At 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 bespoke packages cover a wide range of services from basic home help, to advanced nursing care and supported hospital discharge.

Home care worker visiting elderly woman

Myhomecare can offer routine medical services such as vaccinations or pharmacy deliveries in the comfort of your loved one’s home. Myhomecare also works with medical practitioners and suppliers to provide a wide range of supportive solutions such as home adaptations, essential medical supplies and partnership with your primary care team.

Myhomecare’s Technology for Independence

Myhomecare’s combined approach to care and technology supports independence for all age groups. Caregivers and nurses promote the use of app technology which features reminders for appointments, low-intensity exercise programmes and medication reminders.

At Myhomecare, we believe in providing the highest quality care and support services to our clients 24/7. This is why we have partnered with Isaac Care, a world class assistive technology solution. Isaac Care supports independence by combining care and technology, including monitoring health and wellbeing, a fall alarm and a circle of care app. 

Myhomecare’s Isaac Care:

Isaac Care provides a complete wraparound service, including remote health monitoring with 24/7 support, underpinned by a network of dedicated personal carers.
This allows your loved one to feel safe at home while they live independently.

Find Out More
Isaac Care App for Independence

Providing independence to your loved one can have numerous benefits. It is important that they are provided with a standard of life they wish to live, growing old should not mean a lesser life. With sufficient homecare and assisted living technology, they can maintain their sense of self while having sufficient support when needed.

Quality of Life

Senior man in wheelchair with home care provider

Being able to provide your loved one with the best quality of life is something every family wishes for. When your loved one can perform tasks and carry out activities when they want, safe in the knowledge care is available to them, this greatly enhances their state of wellbeing. By providing the below, homecare can significantly help loved ones live their lives to the fullest.

Homecare tailored to the individual needs and preferences for your loved one. This helps ensure they receive the specific support they need.

Personalised Care

Personalised Care

With homecare, your loved one can receive care in their own homes, promoting a sense of comfort and familiarity.

Comfort and Convenience

Comfort and Convenience

Homecare providers can assist your loved one with hobbies such as gardening, painting and playing games. Helping them maintain a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Hobbies and Interests

Hobbies and Interests

As your loved one receives the support they need to manage their health conditions in their own homes, their health outcomes and overall quality of life are greatly improved.

Reduced Hospitalisations

Reduced Hospitalisations

Homecare provides your loved one with a familiar and comfortable environment, which can help reduce feelings of anxiety and loneliness. They can continue to enjoy their hobbies or can keep visiting friends and family. Homecare providers can also provide companionship, which is important for overall mental and emotional well-being. By giving families that reassurance, they are then provided with a peace of mind, knowing that their loved one is being taken care of and is safe in their own home. This takes the stress off of an otherwise worrying situation. Here is a testimonial from one of our happy clients:

Ireen gives my mother the attention she needs, her personal hygiene is especially looked after and she loves the company. Delighted with the service!

Homecare for your loved one can help to maintain their independence, improve their quality of life, provide comfort, offer tailor-made care, and provide peace of mind. If you are considering homecare for your loved one, be sure to do your research and find a reputable provider, allowing your loved one to be taken care of in the best possible way.

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