What is home care?
Many of our clients want to live independently in their own homes for as long as they can. It’s for this reason, that they choose us, as the service we provide in and around the Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Sevenoaks areas helps facilitate this.
The problem is that many people don’t know what their options are when they realise they or a relative needs additional care, or what home care really is in practice when compared to other options. This article aims to give you some more knowledge and information on the subject.
Home care works by supporting the elderly in their own home with whatever they need – it could be something as simple as helping with domestic chores, such as preparing and cooking meals, or perhaps helping with bathing, dressing and grooming or even feeding and walking the dog!
Each person is different and will therefore require a different level of care which is why at Birchwood Care Services we always create a bespoke home care plan for each new client to ensure their needs are met. If you want more information about this then head over to an article we published on finding care at home for a loved one.
So what are the options?
When it becomes clear that an elderly relative needs additional care, there are a number of choices. We have covered some of these in previous articles, such as the difference between assisted living and homecare but to summarise, the most common options are as follows:
- Home care services give support to those who need it in their own home.
- Live-in care applies when someone wants to stay in their own home but need 24/7 care, so a carer will be with them at all times.
- A care home provides accommodation and care to those who need extra support. We work closely with our colleagues at Birchwood House which is a wonderful care home.
- Assisted Living – You have some form of independence with assisted living as you’re in usually a self-contained flat but with staff available to provide support where required.
And how does it work if home care is needed?
If you have decided that home care is the most appropriate solution for you or your relative, but are unsure about the steps you need to take, then head over to the process page of our website for more information. Alternatively, feel free to get in touch with our friendly team who will be able to answer any questions you may have.
Your situation or health may change quickly, and we can always react to this if necessary and if, for example, you have a fall and need additional care, you can go into the care home of our colleagues at Birchwood House for a period of respite care. We will also review your care on an ongoing basis to ensure you’re getting the level of care needed and will advise either you or your family if we feel a different care package would be appropriate.
Although a very brief guide, we hope this gives some insight and if you need any advice for yourself or a friend or relative then do give us a call on 01892 863 710 and we would be delighted to help and advise. We provide care in and around the Tunbridge Wells area and we’d love to be able to help you and your loved ones find the perfect care.
Other articles you may like
- Good Care Month: Why carers are essential to the communityGood Care Month: Why carers are essential to the community July is officially Good Care Month, which means it’s a time to celebrateContinue reading “Good Care Month: Why carers are essential to the community “
- Protecting adults at risk: a closed culture is a poor culture.Protecting adults at risk: a closed culture is a poor culture. When it comes to protecting adults at risk, it is essential toContinue reading “Protecting adults at risk: a closed culture is a poor culture. “
- World Parkinson’s Day: What can we do to help?Last month, Birchwood Care Services honoured Parkinson’s Awareness Month, specifically World Parkinson’s Day on April 11th. It was a time to recognise those who are impacted by the condition, and advocate for better support not just for individuals with Parkinson’s, but for their caregivers and loved ones.
- Stress Awareness Month – managing caregiver stressStress Awareness Month – managing caregiver stress At Birchwood Care Services, we see firsthand the compassion, strength, and dedication our carers bring to their roles each day. Caring is more than a job, it’s a passion. But while carers are busy supporting others, it’s a little too easy for their wellbeing to slip down the priority list. This April, as we recognise Stress Awareness Month, we want to shine a light on something essential because carers need care too.
- A spring in our step at Birchwood Care ServicesThat’s right, it’s spring already! Time has flown by this year, and it’s been so nice to finally get a bit of sunshine. A lot of people associate spring with a happier time – the increased sunlight exposure leads to better sleep, more social interaction, and beautiful green spaces.
- Celebrating love at every age this Valentine’s DayCelebrating love at every age this Valentine’s Day We don’t go through life alone, and Valentine’s Day gives us the perfect opportunity toContinue reading “Celebrating love at every age this Valentine’s Day “
- Why choose Birchwood Care Services for your care needs in 2025?In 2025, the demand for compassionate, reliable, and personalised home care services is higher than ever. As families seek trusted partners to support their loved ones, Birchwood Care Services stands out as a leader in the field. We combine decades of experience with a deep commitment to quality and compassion, ensuring that every client receives the personalised care they deserve. Here’s why Birchwood Care Services is the perfect choice for your care needs in 2025.
- 5 ways to promote winter wellness5 ways to promote winter wellness This time of year always brings a mixed bag of emotions. It’s seen as a peaceful, slower-pacedContinue reading “5 ways to promote winter wellness “
- Why we were recognised by KiCA for our care servicesWhy we were recognised by KiCA for our high-quality care services Anyone who has been in a care-giving role will agree: caring isn’tContinue reading “Why we were recognised by KiCA for our care services “