Sharing your home with a carer might seem daunting especially for people who have always been independent and used to their own company, or that of a close circle of family and friends. Getting to the stage of realising you need long-term care can be difficult for you as well as for the family. The need for support and assistance, and the thought of losing some of your independence is naturally worrying, but it’s important to recognise the benefits. And also important to understand why and how home care can be so much better than a care home.
Let’s look at the many, often overlooked, benefits and advantages that can be enjoyed when sharing your home with a carer.
Your carer can become a good friend
In-home caregivers perform many important tasks for their clients to keep them well and happy, but their role often goes beyond that of day-to-day routines. Most carers develop a genuine friendship with the person they are caring for. Over time this leads to a deep and mutual understanding and connection.
It is often the case that the person receiving care can confide in their carer in a way they cannot with close family or friends. Importantly, one of the main benefits of sharing your home with a carer is that loneliness is no longer an issue as it is for so many older people in the UK. If you find that your social life has taken more of a back seat, a live-in carer can help you to regain your social connections.
You can enjoy new routines
You can find and enjoy new routines that bring structure and joy to your daily life. Carers often introduce activities that you may not have tried before, such as gentle exercises, hobbies, or even outings that are tailored to your interests and abilities. These new routines can help in keeping both your mind and body active, which is essential for overall well-being. Additionally, carers can assist in maintaining a healthy lifestyle by encouraging a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
You could discover that your carer has hidden talents which they would be only too happy to share with you such as crafting, singing or gardening. Learning to share and join in with your carer’s hobbies and interests could give you a new lease of life.
A renewed sense of purpose
As your household evolves to include a carer, you may experience a renewed sense of purpose. The structure and support provided by a carer can help you rediscover passions and interests that you may have sidelined over the years. Whether it’s engaging in a new hobby, contributing to household tasks, or simply enjoying daily conversations, these activities can help foster a sense of accomplishment and meaning.
The bond that develops between you and your carer can help you face any challenges with greater optimism. Find out here how the presence of a carer can be a catalyst for positive change.
