in the best direction, however you would like care information presented. Visit www.carechoices.co.uk The Care Quality Commission (www.cqc.org.uk) is responsible for checking that any care provided meets essential standards of quality and safety. Further information is on page 45. The Homecare Association requires its members to comply with a code of practice. This code includes a commitment to treat customers with dignity and respect and operate at a level above the legal minimum required in legislation. Social care regulations do not apply to cleaners, handymen or gardeners. However, some home care agencies are increasingly providing staff who can help meet these needs too.
The benefits of using a regulated agency include: • assessing your care needs and tailoring a plan to meet those needs; • advertising, interviewing and screening suitability of workers; • arranging necessary insurance cover; • providing training and development for care workers; • managing workers’ pay, including compliance with the National Minimum Wage; • managing employment relationships, including sickness, absence and disciplinary matters; and • managing health and safety issues.
Living with dementia at home If you are concerned about persistent forgetfulness or memory difficulties, it is important to consult a GP. They can undertake an initial examination and refer you to a memory clinic for further investigation if necessary. The various types of support available to you and your carer are likely to involve NHS services, Adult Social Care and voluntary agencies. Some examples of services and support to help people living with dementia include:
• specialist day centres; • respite care or short breaks; • assistive technology and community alarms; • home care; • meals at home; • community equipment; • extra care sheltered housing; and • carers’ support groups.
Family support If you know someone who is worried about their memory, encourage them to visit their GP. The more support you can give someone, the better life with dementia can be, especially in the early years. Focus on what the person can do, not what they cannot do, help with little errands or with cooking, listen to the person with dementia, and find out more about the condition.
• reassurance that they are still valued and that their feelings matter; • freedom from as much external stress as possible; and • appropriate activities and stimulation to help them to remain alert and motivated for as long as possible.
When someone is living with dementia, they need: • support to live their life; Visit www.carechoices.co.uk for further assistance with your search for care
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