Home Care in the New Year
In December, enquiries for non-essential care tend to be quieter. There are always clients who need care at all times of year, particularly personal care or those coming out of the hospital, but we find those who have a choice tend to wait until the New Year. Families want to relax and enjoy Christmas, thereby waiting to tackle difficult issues early in 2026. From our point of view, this also works well. Over Christmas and New Year, many of our carers take annual leave, and the staff shortage makes it more difficult to take on new work until very early January.
However, when January arrives, the demand for home care increases. Quite often, over Christmas, families get together, and it may become clear when you spend more time than usual with elderly relatives that they are experiencing difficulties. You may notice they are forgetful, they are not walking well, or carrying out daily tasks properly. Independent Living can help; we can offer companionship, provide support for someone with personal care like showering, prepare meals, prompt medication, and complete light housework. The more we take people “out and about”, it is often to medical appointments, but can be shopping, garden centres, and so forth.
Care is about helping the person, but we believe it also aids family members. Many sons or daughters have to work full-time, look after grandchildren, or simply cannot provide care seven days a week. Although a difficult subject, some people are happy to be a main carer for a parent, but others do not want that responsibility. With families spread out over the country, it may not be practical to care for a family member. Many people form a bond with their carers, and it can give them a new lease of life, a new group of friends. Care can improve both a person’s physical and mental situation.
If we can provide care and support for a loved one in 2026 why not give Amanda and Lilian a call on 01257 696 050 in office hours.
