How homecare can help tackle loneliness
According to Age UK, around 1.4 million older people in the UK often feel lonely. This figure has a number of contributing factors including living alone, being widowed, having a disability or being in poor health. At Choice Care, part of our commitment to helping some of the most vulnerable in our community is to make sure they enjoy regular companionship as well as having their health and personal needs cared for. If your loved one is feeling lonely and you’re looking for homecare in Blackburn, you can rest assured they will be in good hands and great company with us at Choice Care.
Who might need homecare
Our care services are not necessarily aimed at the frail and elderly. Our experienced team can support a range of specialist care needs, including cognitive and physical disabilities, people with poor health or those with a life-limiting illness. Further figures from The Office of National Statistics (ONS) reveal individuals with a long-term illness or disability were significantly more likely to feel lonely more frequently than people without. And those who reported their general health to be ‘very bad’ or ‘bad’ were significantly more likely to feel lonely on a more permanent basis.
Our award-winning team is trained to care for people living with dementia as well as those with complex needs such as Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis, and those needing end-of-life care. Our carers help make life brighter for people whose needs are a little more involved; helping them live as well as they can and to lead rich, fulfilling lives – whether that means taking a gentle walk in the garden, completing a puzzle together or cooking a nutritious meal.
Respite care
It’s not just the elderly and vulnerable communities who feel lonely. The ONS also found that civilians who give care to someone are 37% more likely to report feeling lonely than those who do not. And research by Carers UK found that 57% have lost touch with family and friends as a result of their caring role.
At Choice Care, we understand how caring for a loved one can sometimes mean time spent away from other family members and friends as well as getting less of that all-important ‘me time’. That’s why we also offer a respite care service. If you or a primary carer feels under the weather or in need of some self-care, we can step in and take on your caring responsibilities for as little or as long as you require. Alternatively, if you’re off on holiday and need extra support for your loved one, we can accompany you to make sure you can relax and spend quality time with the whole family.
Winter
Plunging temperatures and dull weather means many people are battening down the hatches, adding to the sense of isolation for those living alone. However, choosing homecare means someone will always be around to keep you or a loved one well-cared for and occupied. We all know winter is also a time when we need to take extra care of our health. Nutritious cooking, gentle exercise, as well as mindful activities and general care to ensure your loved one keeps safe and warm in the wintertime is part of our commitment to you and your family.
If you’re worried about your loved one feeling isolated, or you’re looking for respite care in Blackburn, give us a call on 01254 504905 to discuss how we can help.