Care is defined as the provision of what is necessary for the health, welfare, maintenance, and protection of someone or something- and thankfully providing care is easily instilled in many of us. The question is not always how to care, but how to find the support you require to navigate care for yourself or someone you love.

There are many options available to serve different levels of care needs. When aging in place, it is important to break down what care might look like at home.

Taking the steps to understand what it is you require and what that looks like can be challenging. Many people are resistant to care because they have been independent for so long. This independence can be hard to let go of; however, it is often beneficial to find help.

An hourly, overnight or live-in caregiver has the skills to aid with things such as: bathing, feeding, dressing, toileting, catheter care, mobilizing and transferring, as well as shopping, driving, cleaning, and cooking. Often hospitals are over-loaded with seniors waiting to go home with care.  So many of our elders cannot go home without some level of care at home.  Often live-in care is provided for several weeks or months until the client is stronger and requires less assistance. Sometimes upon discharge from hospital, clients frequently require overnight care.  Often, the family caregiver is also the spouse, and getting a good nights’ rest can be a challenge. The family caregiver cannot function all day when up most of the night as well. Family will hire an overnight worker to sit with their parent with dementia to allow the spouse to get a good night’s rest. You or your loved ones will be able to keep your desired lifestyle for as long as possible, in your own environment.

Respite care and companionship is provided within the home or in the community with special mind given to those struggling to manage dementia or Alzheimer’s care of a loved one- giving you peace of mind while allowing room to find a healthy balance in your own life. Providing care to a loved one can be challenging at the best of times, with ongoing physical and emotional demands.

When looking for support for your loved one, it is important to maintain an understanding of what the best fit looks like for you, your loved ones and your family. Companions, Caregivers and Health Care Aides may be custom matched to best suit that of your family members needs and level of care.  Whether providing home support or companionship, developing relationships with the seniors, through consistency of care and support matters.

Navigating care in Victoria is no easy task, and we are here to help. Let us know how we are able to support you through the complexities of caring for you and your loved ones.

Last of all, seek out a Consultant on Aging (CPCA) that can answer all your questions. They will be able to provide you with the information you seek and direct you to agencies or individuals that will help you with your care needs.