When Home Care Isn’t Enough
Home care can work extremely well — but sometimes a person’s needs become greater than the support that can realistically be delivered through visits at home.
It isn’t simply about needing “more care”
The important question is whether the person’s needs can still be met safely and reliably in their current environment.
There are too many visits
The person needs support so frequently that there is little time when they can safely manage without someone present.
They need someone nearby
Needs such as falls risk, confusion or wandering may require supervision rather than occasional visits.
Night-time needs have increased
Repeated night-time support can make a conventional home care package difficult to sustain.
The home environment is no longer working
Mobility, falls or equipment requirements can change whether the home remains suitable.
The package keeps breaking down
Repeated missed visits or inability to source the required care may indicate that the current arrangement needs reconsidering.
Needs have significantly increased
A significant change in health or functioning should prompt a review rather than simply adding more informal support.
Don’t wait for a crisis if the arrangement is clearly becoming unsustainable
If needs have changed significantly, ask for the relevant assessment or review and explain what has changed in practical terms.
What alternatives might be considered?
More support at home
Sometimes the existing arrangement can be increased or redesigned to meet changing needs.
Different support
Technology, equipment, adaptations, community support or other services may complement formal care.
Respite care
A short period of residential care can sometimes provide a temporary solution or give family carers a break.
Residential care
For some people, a care home may provide a more consistent level of support when needs can no longer be met safely at home.
Nursing care
Where nursing needs are significant, nursing care may need to be considered as part of the wider assessment.
NHS funding pathways
If needs have a significant health component, NHS Continuing Healthcare may need to be explored.
Look at the whole picture
A decision about whether home care remains suitable should consider the person’s needs, wishes, safety, home environment, available support and the sustainability of the care arrangement.
It shouldn’t simply be about whether the family can keep doing more.
If you’re considering a care home
Use the Carentis care home guidance to work through what type of home may be appropriate and what questions to ask.
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