One place a care home should never be compared with is prison. However, in light of the pandemic, a lot of residents are feeling incredibly lonely, and there have been several reports of people dying of loneliness because they haven’t been able to see their family and friends. The 2021 “Better At Home” Report has shown that almost three-quarters of us want to stay in our own homes as we get older. However, in light of the recent news, we have no doubt that this figure will rise in the coming months and years.
The loneliness experienced in care homes is something that was brought to light in the past weeks, with petitions and protests taking place. West End actress and “I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here” star Ruthie Henshall has claimed that some care home establishments are simply “making up their own rules” and not allowing people to enjoy the freedoms that most of us are reveling in now that the lockdown restrictions have been eased across the country. This resulted in campaigners heading to Downing Street to deliver a petition to call an end to the isolation those in care homes are experiencing at the moment.
Care home visits are imperative for health and happiness
Care home visits are critical for friends and family members, as well as the patient themselves, as social interaction is a necessity to combat loneliness and give residents a boost. Home care can also boost seniors mental health. Plus, friends and family members can make sure their loved ones are being well-cared for and looked after, getting enough exercise and taking their medication, as well as potentially spotting any early warning signs of neglect. In addition to this, grandchildren are desperate to see their grandparents who they love so much, and even the strongest of people can end up losing the will to live if they face the pain of loneliness each and every day.
Home care can provide a viable alternative if you are worried about stringent care home visitation limits due to COVID-19
If you’re worried because your loved one needs help and assistance, but you fear that a care home is going to be too strict and stringent in terms of visitation given the ongoing pandemic, you may want to consider sourcing a suitable live-in care agency.
Home care means that your family member or friend will be able to get the help and assistance they require from the comfort of their own home. At the same time, they are going to be able to enjoy all of the social benefits that come with being able to see their friends and family members. You will also find that a lot of elderly people prefer the independence that comes with living in their own home; somewhere they feel comfortable and at ease. When you take this into account, it is not difficult to see why so many elderly people are much happier receiving care at home.