Preparing for a live in carer
Live in care can be a wonderful alternative to moving into a care home. It allows you or your loved one to receive quality care without moving house. Also, unlike home care, a live-in carer is present round-the-clock. If you have decided that live-in care is the best option, there are some important steps you should take before the carer moves in. Read on to discover how to prepare for live-in care in Christchurch, so that the transition is seamless for everyone involved.
What is live-in care?
Live-in care is practical and personalised support within the comfort of you or your loved one’s existing home, 24 hours a day. One of the main benefits is that it enables people with dementia, illness or disability to receive the care they need without the strain or emotional impact of moving house. It’s a great choice for those wishing to remain in the comfort and familiarity of their home while maintaining as much independence as possible. With 24-hour care, you can relax knowing that your loved one’s health and wellbeing is in qualified hands.
Let your loved one know
Starting to have live-in care is a significant life change and it’s important to make sure your loved one knows and understands this before the live-in carer moves in. As well as a meet-and-greet, consider arranging a trial session so that both parties can bond and build a connection. This is especially important for people with dementia, for whom a change in routine may require more time to adjust.
Prepare their private room
As your home will be both the living and working environment for your live-in carer, ensure their space is comfortable and safe. A live-in carer requires a private room where they can relax and rest when they are not working. The room should be clean with adequate heating, a bed, a chest of drawers, a wardrobe, and, if possible a TV. A guest room is a great option. This will be their home away from home and you’ll want them to feel warm, welcomed and well-rested.
Bathroom facilities
While they do not need a private bathroom, the carer will require access to clean, functional bathing and toileting facilities.
WIFI
It’s important to set up a reliable WIFI connection before your live-in carer moves in, so they can stay connected with their loved ones as well as having access to the joys of the internet.
Access to kitchen
As the live-in carer will be providing nutritious meals to you or your loved one, they will need access to cooking facilities. While they will be eating their meals with you or your family member, they should also have the freedom to prepare snacks for themself when they wish to.
Safety and security
All live-in carers undergo criminal record and reference checks before beginning their career. That being said, it’s still important to secure valuables and we do not recommend leaving money lying around the house. This is for everyone’s benefit so that no misunderstandings occur.
Insurance and information
When you employ a professional live-in carer, be sure to double-check your household insurance policy. Additionally, if your carer will be using your car to run errands or accompany you or your loved one to social events, it’s important to add them as a named driver on your insurance policy. Finally, don’t forget to provide your carer with any important information such as medical details, dietary requirements and contact details in case of an emergency.
Costs
To handle expenses related to live-in care, we recommend setting up a petty cash container or a bank account for the carer. They will need to keep all records of receipts and expenditures.
Contact us
If you or your loved one have any questions about what live-in care entails or whether it is right for you and your family, please do not hesitate to get in touch or telephone us on 01202 800 494.