The UK has an ageing population. Census data from 2021 shows there were 11 million people in the over 65 age bracket. This was an increase from 9.2 million a decade earlier. While that is good news because it means people are enjoying longer lives, it does cause some concerns about care. As a top domiciliary care provider, we want to have a closer look at the situation and why services like ours are the best solution.

A recent study

Age UK released a study in July with an alarming headline. It said that approximately 1.6 million people over 65 don’t get sufficient help to meet their care needs. That number is also likely to increase in the future as the population continues to age.

There are a number of different reasons for the care gap. Firstly, there is simply too much demand for providers. Secondly, many people and families don’t know what kind of help is available. Finally, there can be concerns about costs.

Domiciliary care is a great option

More people should look at services that can provide care in the home. They can often be the best solutions because of the flexibility. It can be especially good for people who are unsure about care or reluctant to get help.

Several studies also support how good home care can be. A notable one was from Oxford University in 2021. It did a comparison between hospital and home care. The first was found to potentially lead to confusion, loss of mobility, and a faster transition into residential care. However, domiciliary services could provide comfort in familiar surroundings and maintain independence.

Finding a provider

One of the greatest things about domiciliary care is people have the freedom to choose the right provider for them. There are a number of things to look at here.

Firstly, you need to look at the type of services on offer. They can differ massively. Some specialise in respite care to help people in the short term after a hospital stay or accident. Others provide ongoing support. Then there can be differences in the frequency of visits and how long they last. It is always best to choose a provider that will offer a bespoke service.

Secondly, you should check to make sure the provider is a professional and meets the highest standards. You can learn more about providers from the Care Quality Commission (CQC). They do inspections and reports so you can find out how well they do in key areas like safety, effectiveness, and caring.

Thirdly, it is important to choose a provider that is flexible. Care needs can change over time, especially as people get older. The best carers will have flexibility to adapt every part of the service. This can include changes to what they do around the home, additional visits when necessary, and more.

Finally, it is important to look at costs. You should talk to each provider about all charges and billing. There should be transparency here. Plus, you should be able to get some advice about funding.

Do you want to arrange a reliable service?

Diamond Care & Support is a company with an excellent reputation. You can see this in our most recent report from the CQC. We have high standards and truly believe that our clients deserve respect and services that ensure their dignity.

So, if you want to discuss domiciliary care with us, please get in touch. We would love to work with you to find the best service.