Home Instead supports call for more Home Care Services

A greater number of older people could avail of home care services as a result of a new bill introduced by Willie O’Dea, Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Social Protection, says Amanda Bohan, owner of Home Instead Senior Care in Kildare which is based in Kilcullen.

The new bill will allow for home care services to be offered to people in place of long-term residential care.

“As Ireland’s largest home care provider it is our mission to enhance the lives of older people and their families," Amanda Bohan says. "We have cared for thousands of older people and we believe it is their preference and in their best interest to remain at home for as long as possible.”

She adds that the benefits of home care to both older people and the local community are tremendous and that the individual wins back a level of independence, security and confidence.

"By keeping people out of nursing homes and hospitals who don’t really need to be there, by reducing the length of time someone must stay in institutionalised care following an illness and by helping people remain at home for longer, valuable resources can be better utilised by the local health board."

Home care also offers one-on-one care. A professional caregiver will support the older person in any way they can, this support can include personal care such as bathing or something as simple as companionship and light housekeeping — the home care service is tailored to the needs of the older person.

For more information visit HomeInstead.ie or call 045 484623 for a free home care consultation.