Family Decisions

Families often have to make difficult decisions about arranging care for a family member.

There are varying care options available and there are practical, financial and emotional implications involved when making decisions regarding long-term care.

There are a number of factors a family may need to consider when discussing care for a member of the family.

Care at Home

Most people prefer to stay in their own home for as long as possible, living independently in familiar surroundings. When considering care at home, a family should ask themselves a number of questions including:

What level of support does the older person require?
Can the family provide any practical assistance?
What about social stimulation for the older person?
Are there reputable home care agencies available to provide assistance?
Will Social Services provide any support?
Does the older person require assistive devices or adaptations to their home?
What if the carer does not turn up for work?
Can care at home be afforded on a long-term basis?
Would the older person accept a carer on a live-in basis?
How much does care at home cost?

Residential Care

As people grow older, it is not always practical for them to remain living in their own home, so a family may need to consider the option of a care home or care home with nursing for their relative. The decision to move a relative into a care home is not usually an easy decision. There are a number of emotional factors to contend with as well as practical. Families often feel guilty about moving their relative into a care home or some family members may disagree with the choices being made on behalf of their relative.

Some questions to consider are:

Do you know the level of care required?
What type of home would be preferred? – purpose-built or conversion.
What facilities would be important to the older person?
Where should the older person move? Should they remain in an area that is familiar to them or should they move into a home closer to a member of the family who will visit frequently?
Who will fund the care? Can the older person fund his or her own care? Can the family provide a top-up to the Social Service funding?

Decisions regarding care options can be complex and if there are several family members involved there can be varying views and opinions as to the most appropriate option for their relative. Some members of the family will want the best possible care regardless of cost, whilst others may have their inheritance in mind when deciding on a care provider.

These factors can be potentially divisive and often the best course of action is to enlist an experienced mediator to help with the process.

If you require further assistance or would like to speak to an Independent Care Adviser please call 0800 137 669