Category: Home Care Advice

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

How Myhomecare is Supporting Independent Living and Connections This Christmas

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider

How Myhomecare is Supporting Independent Living and Connections This Christmas

As families across Ireland prepare for Christmas, a recent survey conducted by Myhomecare, Ireland’s only JCI-accredited homecare provider, highlights the significant challenges older people face in maintaining health, independence, and social connection.  Our survey highlights the vital role of carers in ensuring comfort, safety, and connection over the festive season and underscores the vital role of homecare services, particularly during the holidays, when loneliness and isolation can be most keenly felt. The survey conducted by Myhomecare was issued to over 1000 Myhomecare clients with 837 respondents so far. With these newfound results, the following highlights how Myhomecare is supporting independent living and connections this Christmas.

7 in 10 (72%) of respondents will spend Christmas with family, supported by the care and dedication of homecare assistants. More than 1 in 10 (14%) remain unsure of their plans, and more than 1 in 10 (14%) will spend Christmas with only their carer as a primary point of contact.   

Highlights From Our Survey

  • 3 in 10 (31%) of respondents struggle with personal care.
  • 2 in 10 (20%) cite meal preparation as a key challenge.
  • 2 in 10 (21%) use meals-on-wheel services.
  • Nearly 2 in 10 (18%) reporting challenges in maintaining regular contact with loved ones.
  • 4 in 10 (40%) of respondents experience long waiting times for hospital consultations.
  • 3 in 10 (30%) struggle to schedule convenient appointments.

Deirdre Doyle, Senior Manager at Myhomecare:

Myhomecare’s passionate, highly trained carers provide essential support to clients not only during Christmas but throughout the year. Through our Winter Plan, we play a role at every stage of the patient journey, ensuring comfort, safety, and connection during this time of increased demand. Our carers, supported with industry leading training through the Myhomecare Care Academy, are dedicated to providing patient centred care, enabling clients to maintain their independence, and offer much needed companionship, with 23% of our clients relying solely on homecare support as their connection to the community.

Myhomecare’s Care Academy

The Myhomecare Care Academy provides subsidised courses, including Care of the Older Person, Care Skills, Infection Prevention and Control, and Dementia Awareness, allowing carers to grow in their roles while positively impacting the lives of those they support.    

At the heart of Myhomecare are the carers—dedicated, compassionate individuals who bring vital care and connection to clients, particularly during the holidays. Myhomecare’s Care Academy equips carers with the highest standard of training and upskilling opportunities, ensuring they are well-prepared to deliver exceptional care.    

Myhomecare’s Collaborations

Servisource’s Myhomecare Winter Plan emphasises “A Role to Play at Every Stage” of the patient journey, from birth to end of life. With comprehensive resources across all divisions, Myhomecare alleviates pressure on healthcare facilities by delivering Home First care, rapid post-hospital support, and advanced remote care solutions, ensuring the right care is provided in the right place.

As part of this approach, Myhomecare’s blended model of care and long-standing partnership with Isaac Care, ensures clients benefit from revolutionary assistive technology such as fall alarms and health monitoring devices, providing added peace of mind and safety.  

Advantages of Homecare

  • 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. Allowing a sense of independence and control over their living environment.
  • Preserving Daily Routines: Loved ones 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 individuals 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.

“Having my carer visit means I have someone to talk to, someone to rely on. It makes Christmas feel a little less lonely.”    
Survey respondent

The Benefits of Homecare for People of All Ages

This Christmas, Myhomecare continues to exemplify the transformative power of homecare in enhancing the lives of older individuals across Ireland. From enabling clients to remain in the comfort of their own homes to fostering vital social connections, Myhomecare’s dedicated carers provide unwavering support when it’s needed most.

Through innovative solutions like the Care Academy and assistive technology with the Isaac Care partnership, Myhomecare is empowering clients to maintain their independence and dignity while alleviating pressure on healthcare facilities. As the festive season shines a spotlight on the importance of togetherness, Myhomecare remains steadfast in its mission to bring peace of mind and the gift of care to those who rely on its services, ensuring no one feels alone during this special time of year.

Want to know more about our homecare services?

Contact Us Today

Read more of our blogs

Events, Home Care Advice

Myhomecare Attend The HCCI Home Care Awards 2024

The Care Academy Graduation 2024
The Care Academy Graduation 2024

Myhomecare Attend The HCCI Home Care Awards 2024

Myhomecare recently celebrated two of our amazing healthcare workers Marianna & Silvia on their nominations at the HCCI Home Care Awards, which took place recently in Dungarvan, Waterford.

About Home & Community Care Ireland (HCCI)

HCCI was formed in 2012 to represent private home care providers who wished to benefit from peer to peer learning, to develop best practice, and to work together to advocate for and create the best possible home care landscape across the country. It is the national membership organisation for companies that provide a managed home care service in Ireland, uniting members who directly care for thousands of older and vulnerable people in their homes. 

HCCI Home Care Awards 2024

Silvia and Marianna explain what it means to work in care with Myhomecare:

Highlights From The Night

HCCI Home Care Awards 2024
HCCI Home Care Awards 2024
HCCI Home Care Awards 2024

Myhomecare want to congratulate Silvia and Marianna on this fantastic accomplishment and wish them the best of luck on their career journeys.

Myhomecare provides the right people with the right skills and knowledge in the right place. There has always been a particular emphasis on upskilling and career progression within Myhomecare with exceptional ongoing training provided and further supported by Servisource’s Training department. Myhomecare have developed their strong training programmes into The Care Academy enveloping all the training frontline staff need to progress within their career. A comprehensive catalogue of training courses is available to support frontline staff in providing the highest quality of service, where they can train, develop and coach care workers throughout each stage of their careers.

If you aspire to work in care, Myhomecare can lead you on the way to a fulfilling career in healthcare.

Join Our Award-Winning Homecare Team Today

Contact Us

Read more of our blogs

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

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.

Contact Us

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.

Find out More

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.

Read more of our blogs

Caregiver Advice, Home Care Advice, National Carers Week

Carers Week 2024 Celebrated at Myhomecare

National Carers Week 2024
National Carers Week 2024

Celebrating National Carers Week 2024 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 Muscular Dystrophy Ireland, along with their Partner Organisations; The Alzheimer Society of Ireland, Irish Cancer Society, Central Remedial Clinic, Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation, Disability Federation Ireland, Irish Hospice Foundation.

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!

Contact Us

Laísa Matos

Carers Name: Laísa Matos
Location: DML

A female carer
Q. Why did you choose a career in care?

I chose a career as a caregiver because I consider caring for people to be a beautiful mission, it makes me feel like I make a difference in people‘s lives.

Q. What do you enjoy most about working with Myhomecare?

I like working for Myhomecare because I can count on a team that is completely involved and committed to their work. I feel respected and valued.

Q. What advice would you give to someone interested in a career in care?

For those who want to work as a carer, I would say be responsible and kind to your clients, create bonds and treat them as you would want other people to treat your mother, brother or grandparents.

Courtney Flynn

Carers Name: Courtney Flynn
Location: Dublin North East

Click on the video below to hear Courtney’s story

Lisa Brazil

Carers Name: Lisa Brazil
Location: South of Ireland

A female carer
Q. Why did you choose a career in care?

I decided to become a carer as I love working with older people.
I find it very rewarding.
Enabling people to stay in their own homes.

Q. What do you enjoy most about working with Myhomecare?

I love working with Myhomecare as we are treated very well by the company.

Q. What advice would you give to someone interested in a career in care?

I would encourage them as it is such a rewarding career.
Working with the vulnerable in your community.
Helping people in the hard time and the happy times.

Audrey Reidy

Carers Name: Audrey Reidy
Location: Limerick / Clare

A female carer
Q. Why did you choose a career in care?

I started caring for a family member who developed Alzheimer’s in their late 80’s and took up the role of being a fulltime carer for them.

I enjoyed helping a family member who was in need of assistance and it was really rewarding as I started to notice the impact my support had on their life.

Q. What do you enjoy most about working with Myhomecare?

The hours are flexible and the management team are always on the other end of the phone to help with any queries or for a simple chat.

Q. What advice would you give to someone interested in a career in care?

You would need to ask yourself if you are a patient, helpful, caring and a kind individual willing to make a difference to vulnerable people.
Every day is different, but you finish your day knowing that you have made a difference to another person. It’s a rewarding job and that’s what I like about being a carer.

John Walsh

Carers Name: John Walsh
Location: West of Ireland

A male carer
Q. Why did you choose a career in care?

I chose a career in care because I have always been deeply moved by the struggles of those who are facing health challenges.

Every person deserves to feel valued, respected, and supported, especially during their most vulnerable times. Being able to provide comfort, understanding, and assistance to those who are sick is a privilege and an honour.

Q. What do you enjoy most about working with Myhomecare?

What I enjoy most about working with Myhomecare is the incredible sense of friendship and camaraderie that exists among all the staff and management.

We are like a close-knit family, always supporting and encouraging each other. This positive and collaborative environment allows us to provide the best possible care for our clients.

Knowing that we are all in this together, working towards a common goal of improving our clients’ lives, makes every day rewarding and fulfilling. It’s truly inspiring to be part of such a dedicated and compassionate team.

Q. What advice would you give to someone interested in a career in care?

To anyone interested in a career in care, my advice would be to embrace the journey with an open heart and a compassionate spirit. This field is incredibly rewarding, but it also requires patience, empathy, and resilience. Remember that your kindness and dedication can profoundly impact the lives of those you care for.

Also, cherish the relationships you build with both your clients and your colleagues—these connections will provide you with invaluable support and a sense of community.

Always be willing to learn and grow, and don’t hesitate to lean on your team for advice and encouragement. Your commitment to caring for others is truly a gift, and it will bring immense fulfillment to both you and those you help.

Read more of our blogs