06/01/2017
The great advantage of live in care is that there are many different packages which can be adjusted to every individual person who needs care. Live in care provides support for a whole range of conditions and disabilities. It is worthwhile being aware of the different types in order to have a better understanding of other carers and the services they provide.
Hospital recovery care - this option is for people who may need support after an operation, accident or perhaps a fall. It is also a good option for people who are recovering from strokes. Postoperative and recovery care requires expertly trained carers, who assist with the recovery process. These carers are trained to not only help in physical ways but also to liaise with the relevant health care professionals. They will normally take over some of the running of the home so that the client is able to focus entirely on the recovery.
Respite care - this option is where family or primary carers need to take a break, or perhaps go on holiday. Live in respite care gives the same support as the family or carer, and normally the running of the household factors into this. The carers who do this are always trained to handle emergency situations which may happen while the family are away. Respite care is also done through homes which provide accommodation for the client in a safe and secure place, with assistance at hand if needed.
Long term care - this is what most people think of when they hear of 'live in care'. In this instance, the family or client has decided that they wish to stay ion their own homes until they are no longer able to. To achieve this, they need the help of a live in carer to help with the day to day running of the house and provide 24-hour support and care, assistance, and comfort for the client. Live in carers may stay in the house for many weeks at a time, before being relieved by a respite carer or a replacement carer.
Short term care - occasionally people with Multiple Sclerosis may need short-term care during a 'down period' of the illness. This care does not go on permanently, and may only be for a few weeks at a time, but during that period the carer will need to help with normal household duties, along with personal care and medication of the client.
Palliative care - this is care that is given at the End of Life. There are no set stages where this care is decided but normally at the stage when it is perceived that the client is going to pass away fairly soon, and where terminal and incurable conditions are present. This care is provided 24 hours a day and may include family members who stay at hand. Palliative care is recognised as care not to make the person well, but to ensure they are comfortable and pain-free until the end of life.
Live in nurses - this is when a patient is in frequent need of medical assistance and a skilled nurse is in place to take care of a complex and chronic condition in the patient's home. These nurses will manage the condition and assist them in everyday life and help to ensure the patient stays as independent as possible for as long as possible.
Companionship - there are less nursing and caring tasks involved with this position. It is more a case of offering companionship, conversation, and comfort, although assistance with personal needs may be required. A companion may be asked to take care of shopping, cooking, and driving, along with assistance with caring for pets and paying bills.
Whichever path of care you follow, one thing is definite. It is very strenuous work and can be extremely frustrating at times, but it is without a doubt one of the most rewarding careers you can choose.
