Let’s talk about getting old: Empowering Luton's loved ones through proactive care

For years, how the government has funded social care has led to a mindset where care is only considered when it becomes absolutely necessary – typically when our loved ones cannot manage even the most basic aspects of their lives like getting dressed, washing and eating.

But what if we started discussing aging and care needs much earlier? Rather than waiting until a crisis point, what if we viewed care in the home as something to be considered proactively and had open conversations with loved ones – exploring options like companionship and in-home care before life becomes restricted and boring?

Here, Pooja Patel, Managing Director of Visiting Angels North Hertfordshire, offers their advice for reframing the conversation around aging and care, potentially delaying the need for more intensive support and fostering a greater sense of independence and wellbeing as our family members grow older.

Questions to ask yourself Firstly, there are some questions we need to ask ourselves about how much we can do to help our loved ones. Assessing our own capabilities and limitations is crucial in determining the level of support we can realistically provide and what other options we can consider.

Can I notice my loved one doing less of what they love? Recognising shifts in your loved one’s interests and daily activities can offer valuable clues about their general wellbeing and happiness. If they are no longer going to places like the park, hairdressers or theatre as they used to, try to understand what is hindering them. Proactively addressing these changes can be crucial in averting feelings of isolation, depression or a sense of purposelessness.

Am I able to provide the proper care they need? Being honest about your ability to meet your elderly family member’s care needs is crucial for preventing burnout and ensuring they receive proper attention. We all juggle various commitments like work and family. Do you have enough time to dedicate to fulfilling their needs and helping them regain their independence?

What can I do to make a difference as they get older? Acknowledging any limitations in your knowledge, skills or availability can empower you to make informed decisions about seeking additional support or professional care services. Choosing care companies that provide preventive measures and companionship care can promote independence and wellbeing, reducing the likelihood of relying on basic care assistance further down the line.

Questions to ask a care provider Decided on in-home care? The decision can be overwhelming for both you and your elderly family member. We’ve all heard the horror stories about carers in the news, but it’s important to remember that not all care providers are the same. By asking the right questions, you can find a care provider that brings peace of mind to both you and your loved one.

Can I match a carer to my loved one’s interests? Inviting a stranger into your home can be daunting, but did you know that your loved one has the right to choose their carer? A reputable care provider should take the time to understand their client’s interests and preferences, ensuring they are matched with a carer who can create a positive environment where both your loved one and their carer can enjoy spending time together – whether it’s discussing TV shows, visiting art galleries or bonding over shared interests.

Will my loved one be able to have the same carer every visit? You may have heard stories of neighbours or friends dealing with multiple caregivers in a short period or experiencing rushed and insufficient care. Introducing in-home care can be intimidating, so providing our loved ones with a sense of familiarity and stability throughout their caregiving experience is essential. Identifying a care provider that values and rewards their staff properly, which in turn encourages staff retention, guarantees consistent care from the same caregiver over longer periods.

Will the carer actually spend quality time with my loved one? While society might not always see companionship as a form of care, spending time together and doing enjoyable activities can help keep both the mind and body healthy as we get older. Some care providers even offer visits lasting at least an hour with the same caregiver, which gives the chance to form real friendships and provide meaningful companionship.

At Visiting Angels, we specialise in providing exceptional, personalised in-home care designed to meet the individual needs of each client and their family. We recognise that delivering excellent care begins with prioritising the wellbeing of our caregivers. Our ‘carer-centric’ approach ensures that our caregivers are properly rewarded and supported, enabling us to offer a wide range of services aimed at helping elderly loved ones maintain their independence in the comfort of their own homes.

When we take the time to carefully consider and openly discuss our loved one’s evolving needs and explore proactive care options, we can create opportunities to empower them sooner rather than later. It may start as a tricky conversion, but every discussion and step taken towards proactive and personalised care is a step towards ensuring our loved ones age with dignity and grace.

For more information about Visiting Angels North Hertfordshire, visit www.visiting-angels.co.uk/northherts