‘My mobility is getting worse’ Sharing the CARING
Our Reader Care Editor Rosie Sandall is here with compassion, support and advice for carers
Q I’m 90 and have always been very independent but in the last few months, I’ve noticed my mobility is getting worse. I live alone, haven’t any close family but now I really need some help. I dread the thought of leaving my home – even worse to have to sell it – and to go into care. I don’t know where to turn for help. What can I do?
Alice, Barnstable
Rosie says: I’m sure most of us hope that we will be able to remain in our own familiar surroundings for as long as we can, Alice. The old saying ‘There’s no place like home,’ is true. Please don’t automatically assume that because you need some help, this means giving up your home and moving into care. There are plenty of things that can be done at home to make life easier, safer and more comfortable.
Contact your local Adult Social Services department (based within your local council) and ask for an assessment of your needs. Staff will be able to advise you about care support which can be put in place and about adaptations which could be made – for example to make bathing or showering easier.
You could consider sheltered accommodation, where you could rent or buy an apartment in a complex. This means you would live independently in your own flat but that support would be available if you need it. Complexes usually have communal areas, sometimes with meals available, but many people I know live privately in their own flats with the peace of mind of knowing that help is at hand if needed.
If you do need full-time care, it’s important to make the right choice for you. Ask a trusted friend or neighbour to help and visit the homes if possible. I suggest you get Age UK’s factsheet: Finding, choosing and funding a care home – visit ageuk.org.uk or call the helpline on 0800 678 1602. You can read the latest visit inspections for care home on the Care Quality Commission website – cqc.org.uk
Take your time, Alice, and once you get some help in place – of whatever kind – carry on enjoying life!