Mental Health in Domiciliary Care: Well-being at Home

 

Mental Health in Domiciliary Care: Well-being at Home

 

Domiciliary care supports individuals at home, significantly impacting their mental health
alongside physical needs. It combats social isolation through companionship, provides
personalised support that boosts self-esteem and offers a familiar and less stressful
environment. By enabling independence and providing emotional support, domiciliary care
is vital for those facing anxiety, depression, and neurocognitive or mood disorders. Staying at
home reduces anxiety, enhances emotional well-being, and promotes dignity. Domiciliary
care is key to supporting holistic well-being.

Signs of poor mental health:

Feelings: Persistent sadness, excessive worry, irritability, loss of interest, feeling
overwhelmed, guilt, mood swings, numbness.
Thinking: Difficulty concentrating, negative/racing thoughts, self-criticism, unusual
beliefs, memory issues.
Behaviour: Social withdrawal, sleep/appetite changes, low energy, neglecting self-care,
increased substance use, risky behaviour, difficulty with daily tasks, anger outbursts.
Physical: Unexplained aches, fatigue, restlessness.

Eat Your Way to Better Health: The Power of Nutrition

 

How to maintain a healthy and balanced diet

 

Good nutrition is key for staying active and healthy as we age. It boosts energy, strengthens bones
and muscles, supports brain health, helps manage conditions like heart disease, and improves
immunity.

Key Nutrients:

Protein: For muscles (lean meats, beans, eggs).
Fibre: For digestion (fruits, vegetables, whole grains).
Calcium & Vitamin D: For bones (dairy, leafy greens).
Vitamin B12: For nerves and blood (meat, fish).
Potassium: For blood pressure (bananas, potatoes).
Omega-3s: For heart and brain (fatty fish).

Tips:

● Eat a variety of foods.
● Stay hydrated.
● Limit processed foods and sugary drinks.
● Choose healthy cooking methods.
● Read food labels.
● Consult a doctor or dietitian for personalised advice.

Sample Meals:

● Breakfast: Oatmeal with berries and a hard-boiled egg.
● Lunch: Salad with grilled chicken.
● Dinner: Baked salmon with asparagus and quinoa.
● Snacks: Fruits, vegetables, yoghurt.

 

For more information, head to the NHS website for more information
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/how-to-eat-a-balanced-diet/

What you need to know about funding Domiciliary Care Services

What you need to know about funding Domiciliary Care Services

Funding Domiciliary Care in the UK

Domiciliary care can be funded in several ways:

Personal Funds: Individuals may pay out-of-pocket for care services, with costs varying by the level of support needed.

Government Funding: Public funding is available based on needs and financial assessments.
Under schemes like the Care Act 2014 and PIP, eligible individuals may receive partial government support, though those with over £23,250 in income or savings are typically expected to self-fund.

Direct Payments: Eligible individuals may receive direct payments from the government to arrange their own care, offering flexibility in choosing providers.

Funding usually involves an assessment, and contributions depend on individual financial circumstances. It’s important to explore your options and compare providers to ensure the best value.

To learn about self-funding for Domiciliary care, click on this link to be directed to the NHS website

https://www.nhs.uk/social-care-and-support/money-work-and-benefits/paying-for-your-own-care-self-funding/

    To learn about government support regarding Domiciliary Care, click in this link to be directed to the Age UK website

https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/care/paying-for-care/paying-for-homecare/

Staying Hydrated: A Senior’s Quick Guide

Staying Hydrated: A Senior’s Quick Guide

What is hydration?

It’s having enough fluid for your body to work properly. Water helps with everything from
energy to temperature control.

Why do seniors need extra care?

Our thirst signals can weaken with age, and some medications/conditions increase fluid loss,
making dehydration more likely.

Signs of Dehydration

Watch for thirst, dark urine, less frequent bathroom trips, dry mouth,
headaches, tiredness, dizziness, and confusion. Don’t ignore these!

How to Stay Hydrated

● Sip water regularly throughout the day, don’t wait for thirst.
● Drink at set times (meals, wake-up, bedtime).
● Include other fluids like juice, milk, and watery fruits.
● Drink more in hot weather or when active.
● Pay attention to your body’s signals.
● Discuss fluid needs with your doctor.
● Keep drinks easily accessible.
● Add flavour to water if plain is unappealing.

Staying hydrated is key to good health as we age. Small, consistent sips make a big
difference!

For more information, head to the NHS website for more information Dehydration – NHS