Care at home

As it says in the inscription on the stone cottage opposite Crowland Abbey ‘East or West, Home is Best’. And that is certainly the conclusion that some people come to as they get older and are no longer as mobile as they once were.

Of course, hindsight is always a wonderful thing and many very elderly people will wish that they converted an area downstairs into a wet room before the task seems insurmountable. But companies such as specialist installers AHM will make sure that you receive all the advice necessary not only to create a safe but also a stylish space at an affordable price. They are also able to advise on any available government grants and provide an initial free survey and no-obligation quote.

A garden is often a tranquil place of joy and beauty but it can also be a labour of love and when mobility is impaired can be a cause for unnecessary concern. The far-sighted amongst us will have anticipated this and created some easily tended raised beds and planted shrubs instead of labourintensive herbaceous blooms. The District Council-provided green bin is a boon for those wanting to get rid of green waste but unable to travel to the tip. There are a number of reliable gardeners available locally who will call regularly and this is the key to keeping the garden under control. They also love a cup of tea and a biscuit and can turn their hands to other little jobs like changing a light bulb or winding a clock!

There are a number of firms locally who provide home care and the website of the Care Quality Commission will give a guide to their performance when you are selecting this kind of care for your loved ones.

It is important to ensure that the carers are monitoring diet, as this is the first thing that can be forgotten when an elderly person is at home and for the first time in their lives not sharing a meal with others. Companies such as Wiltshire Farm Foods, who provide quality frozen meals free to your door provide an essential component in a care at home package. They can be paid by cash or cheque on delivery or it is possible to order online for friends or family. Another friendly face to knock on the door and break what can be the monotony of being at home alone.

And that is where pets come in! Just when we have time to give the cat, dog or budgie the endless attention they love so often we give them up, fearful of not being able to look after them. Now, with vets such as Mark the Home Vet and a number of local dog walkers, your pet can become a central part of your life! But often we crave human company and this is where we are so lucky in the Deepings to have Age Concern who will not only take you door to door shopping but will put your purchases away for you too. They also provide a Sunday Club, take you to the Library and offer a befriending service amongst a whole panoply of treats! Mark the Home Vet 01780 678876

Many of us take advantage of a mobile hairdresser and beautician for the best part of our lives but now a friendly face who will come to wash and style your hair or give you a manicure is a must have as part of your care at home services. Locally, Gillian Beach is a foot healthcare practitioner who is happy to visit you in your own home.

Just as we are coming into the dark nights and colder weather it is important for all of us to look out for elderly neighbours who are not as mobile as they once were; a kind word and a wave can make all the difference!