Ana has been part of the First Choice Home Care team since 2016. She previously worked in a Nursing Home after moving to England in 2012 but wanted to expand her knowledge and experience in domiciliary and residential care. During her time at First Choice Home Care Ana has progressed from Care Worker to senior Care Worker, Team Leader, Care Coordinator, Branch Administrator and most recently, Recruitment Officer and Head of Care Coordinator.
As part of her development, Ana has been given lots of opportunity to grow as a person and as a Care expert whilst having lots of fun with the close-knit team. They have supported her to achieve 4 NVQs ranging from Social Care, Health & Social Care, Business Administration and finally Human Resources.
First Choice Home Care have given Ana the encouragement and opportunity to develop throughout her career, Ana says: “First Choice Home Care is an Employer of choice that gives opportunity for their employees to follow their ambition and grow, I love working here”.
22-08-2022
First Choice Home Care has a home care (domiciliary care) branch near the Market Place in Halesworth. The Registered Manager will talk you through how domiciliary care works and answer any questions you may have. The telephone number is 01986 800227.
16-12-2021
.jpg)
First Choice Home Care Ltd can offer a person-centered care package tailored to your individual needs. Please complete the form under Contact Us and a member of our team will get back to you.
15-11-2021
First Choice Home Care Ltd can offer a person centered care package tailored to your individual needs. Please complete the form under Contact Us and a member of our team will get back to you.
15-11-2021
You may have noticed a few changes recently with an ageing parent, relative or partner.
As the effects of aging can creep up subtly it is often down to family members to recognise when someone may need extra assistance.
It’s often hard for elderly people to admit when they need help; they don’t want to be a burden and wish to stay independent at home for as long as possible.
As professional carers we know how quickly things change and we’re also on-hand to answer any questions you may have. Our friendly branches across East Anglia offer tailored domiciliary home care, personal care and specialist support for customers with Parkinson’s, Dementia, Alzheimer’s, illness and disabilities.
Here’s our Top 5 signs to look out for:
If you are caring for a loved one, helping as and when you can, it’s so important to ask for help. You may feel overwhelmed, and emotional trying to cope with the growing situation. We offer a range of options with tailored home care and are here to help.
We work closely with family and health professionals and provide respite care, hospital to home care and palliative care. We take pride in delivering person centred care. Our step-by-step tailored service allows you to opt for a small amount of support to begin with and build to regular personal care at home as and when needed.
Accredited and by The Care Quality Commission we offer compassionate and professional home care with dignity and respect. Whatever type of care you choose for your loved one, we are on-hand to answer any questions you have. We take pride in delivering dedicated expert care and support across Norfolk and Suffolk. If you’d like to find out more, please call any of our branches:
Call us on:
Receive regular dedicated tailored support in the comfort of your own home with First Choice Home Care.
01-10-2021
As we get older it can be helpful to understand how our bodies dietary needs change. We value the importance of home cooking and offer meal preparation as part of our home help service. So many customers ask us how to get the right balance of vitamins and minerals so we thought we’d take a look at some recommendations to help you give your body what it needs.
Initially the basic principles are the same for all ages and The NHS Eatwell Guide splits what we need into four main food groups that we need to include:
These can be fresh, frozen or canned. Make sure you include plenty of dark green vegetables such as leafy greens or broccoli, and orange vegetables such as carrots and sweet potatoes as these give added vitamins and minerals.
Potatoes, bread, rice, pasta and other starchy foods.
Try to aim to eat at least three ounces of whole-grain cereals, breads, crackers, rice or pasta every day. The reason why there is so much focus on wholegrain is because these are full of nutrients including protein, fibre, B vitamins, antioxidants, and trace minerals. These can help reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and some forms of cancer.
Dairy and alternatives
Have three servings of low-fat or fat-free dairy (milk, yogurt or cheese) that are fortified with vitamin D to help keep your bones healthy.
Proteins
Try to vary these by choosing more beans, pulses, fish and eggs.
Whilst these are good principles, we also have specific dietary needs as we get older.
Our energy requirement reduces with advancing age due to a decrease in basal metabolic rate and often decreased levels of physical activity.
Try to make the fats you eat healthy ones (polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats) and switch from solid fats to oils when preparing food.
It is important to reduce portion sizes if your activity levels are low and cut down on sugary snacks such as cakes and buns if you are carrying a few more pounds that you should be.
Your skins ability to synthesise Vitamin D decreases with age. Older people are therefore recommended to take a supplement containing 10 micrograms of vitamin D daily as well as regularly eating foods such as fish, of which at least one portion a week should be oily. This can help protect against heart disease and can be beneficial if you’ve already suffered a heart attack. Fortified breakfast cereals can also help.
Gut health can be boosted by including pro-biotic supplements, live yoghurt and of course fibre – this is where the wholegrain comes in again!
Finally, for heart health try using cholesterol lowering spreads and soya may also help to rid your body of the ‘bad’ types of cholesterol.
Just follow these simple tips and you can be sure that you are giving your body the best. That has to sensible as after all - we are what we eat!
(Although these are general principles, we advise that you check with your GP for specific information appropriate to you before making changes to your diet.)
Accredited by the Suffolk and Norfolk councils and The Care Quality Commission registered, we offer compassionate and professional home care with dignity and respect. Whatever type of care you choose for your loved one, we are on-hand to answer any questions you have.
If you’d like to find out more, please call any of our branches:
First Choice Home Care - dedicated to the provision of quality care and support
01-11-2019
a.jpg)
After years of battling poor mobility Jack celebrates his birthday healthy and happy.
There's nothing like sharing the thrill and excitement of a Birthday card from HRH Queen Elizabeth. Of course, it's not an average day and it’s not an average story…
Jack's story spans an incredible lifetime. A war veteran he served in the RAF, working as a Radio Operator, which he plays down with modesty and discretion. In the midst of rationing he married his childhood sweetheart Pat when he was just 27 years old.
“I knew the minute I met her she was the girl for me” he recalls. “we just got on so well, she had the most fabulous smile and caring nature”
After the war they set up home in London and Jack became a commercial photographer and also a father. He’s very family focused and proud of his son, his two grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
“I always remember to be grateful for every day, but especially birthdays” he said with a smile. “Golden, happy days”.
First Choice Home Care have supported Jack with professional home care for over two years. When we first offered help Jack's mobility was poor with little independent movement, he was more or less chair bound.
Since we've provided care and support, he's not only become more positive but manages to remain living at home and most importantly can now get around by himself.
"When we first started to support Jack, he needed the aid of two carers, specialised equipment & was unable to walk. Over the past 2 1/2yrs he has rehabilitated & now walks with his frame unaided.
It’s an incredible feeling to look back and see how improved Jack’s lifestyle is now. We are a happy team, and I think that helps support and encourage our customers to feel secure.
There’s no doubt that Jack is in charge and going to make the most of every day. He adapts and approaches the challenges of old age with a positive attitude and cheery determination.
“Carers have found Jack in the garden, out for a walk & even upstairs (against all advice) he is an amazing gentleman, and very, very independent"
Our hopes for the year ahead are that he continues to enjoy his family and friends, making the most of every opportunity and celebrates in style.
We wish him the very best 100th year!
01-11-2019
.jpg)
It's been a year of success stories for our Harleston branch with the most recent news a real celebration for all the team.
Harleston's Registered Manager, Hannah Brock has successfully graduated Level 5 Leadership for Health and Social Care. Receiving her colours at a Graduation Ceremony last week; she was joined by her family and said:
"I am thrilled and very proud. It's been a great day and so nice to have so many friends and family supporting me along the way"
she continued:
"First Choice Home Care offer full training and support to all our team and I would encourage everyone to extend their skills and knowledge. The training facilities at our Snetterton Branch offer professional support"
Hannah started her Level 5 at her previous employment; however, she was unable to complete a lot of the tasks required to achieve her qualification. Joining First Choice Home Care as a Deputy Manager she bloomed and was soon promoted to Registered Manager. Her experience enabled her to complete her course successfully.
She Graduated at East Suffolk College which is part of the University of Suffolk on the 4th October 2019. It took her two years to complete her Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care Adults Management.
The First Choice Home Care Harleston branch, based at 2 Church Street, takes an active part in the local community supporting local and national charities. They offer a range of domiciliary services supporting older people including home help as well as specialist professional home care for customers suffering from Parkinson's and Dementia.
" Hannah has really done us proud; she is a highly regarded and valued Registered Manager and we are delighted she has passed level 5 with flying colours. Our congratulations from us all at First Choice Home Care"
Recently rated GOOD by the Care Quality Commission, the First Choice Home Care Harleston Branch are consistently achieving top recommendations and remain a key home care service agency within East Anglia supporting Norfolk and Suffolk County Councils.
"We are a close team, and all take pride in delivering professional and friendly home care services.
If you'd like to find out more about First Choice Home Care and career opportunities please call us on 01379 640100 or visit our vacancies page - we'd love to hear from you.
16-10-2019
Understandably many elderly people would much prefer to have a care service in the comfort of their own home, rather than move to a care home facility. Staying within their own familiar environment, surrounded by their memories.
Our home care service means you can carry on doing the things you love - from baking and gardening to enjoying a cup of coffee with friends. We'll offer support in the home and help you get out and about too!
However, we need to make sure that their home is as safe as possible because as we get older our risk of falling increases and the damage that we sustain during a fall also becomes greater. In fact 95% of all hip fractures are a direct result of a fall.
The good news is that we can minimise this risk by making some minor adjustments around the house. Here's our top tips on how to get ready for home care:
The bathroom is a key area to check as 80% of all falls happen here. Consider the following add ing the following:
Ensure the house including the inside and outside stairs are well lit and consider night lights in the sockets.
Stairs can be made safer with railings but it is vital to de-clutter them! We all have clutter that builds up over the years but this can be a real danger. Make sure paths are clear and only necessary items are on the floor.
Place regularly used glasses and items on the kitchen worktop, make sure items stored away are at a good height and ban those stepladders! Avoid any reason to overstretch and lose balance. Consider sponges with long handles, shoe horns, a grabber to pick things up with and an easy-pull sock aid to make life easier.
Taps with easy handles, clear counters and everything tidy and to hand is a must. Food preparation can be made less hazardous without the need for comprising on taste. Many supermarkets produce delicious ready meals using unprocessed ingredients and they taste as good as if they had been cooked at home and with a microwave these can be a real blessing.
If the care needs are more advanced, it is worth contacting us to access your care needs. Working alongside your GP and your local occupational therapist who will assess the home for purpose. They can often arrange delivery of adjustable beds, hoists, pressure mattresses and many other facilities as required.
Finally, it is worth remembering that even after a fall 47% of senior citizens can’t get up without support. So, make sure that help can be called for easily. Consider installing a personal alarm system. Age UK offer one that can be worn at all times as either a lanyard or a wristband and this is connected to a 24-hour helpline so assistance can be called at anytime giving peace of mind.
With these few steps, care in the home can be delivered safely and home remains home!
If you’d like to find out more, please call any of our branches. We’d be happy to help and offer a wealth of information to get you started.
Call us on:
First Choice Home Care - dedicated to the provision of quality care and support
01-10-2019
.jpg)
Are you suffering with a long-term health condition or supporting someone that needs long-term care? Currently over 850,000 people in the UK are suffering with Dementia and numbers are set to rise to over 1 million by 2025 and a staggering 2 million by 2051.
Dementia can lead to memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language. Conditions vary and affect people differently but as symptoms progress it often becomes harder to communicate making everyday tasks a challenge. Mood and behaviour changes are common symptoms and leaves families searching for a way to reconnect with the person they know and love.
Recent studies have found music offers a connection between memory and mood. Some exciting initiatives are harnessing the power of music that can be incredibly positive for dementia sufferers and their families.
Vicky McClure’s uplifting BBC documentary‘Our Dementia Choir’ was a great example of how this therapy can help. With specialists from medicine, music therapy, and performance, Vicky formed a special choir of 20 singers who are living with dementia and saw outstanding results. The documentary showed evidence that music can help people with Dementia to feel and live better.
Singing can increase positive emotional processing and evidence suggests that it can improve someone's mood, behaviour and wellbeing.
Throughout our lives we build a special connection to music and harnessing this can be particularly powerful. Research shows that musical memory is often retained when other memories are lost so listening to favourite songs can actually bring back those old memories and feelings.
When someone with dementia starts to lose their speech, this is particularly upsetting for families who feel they have ‘lost’ their loved ones. Communication is broken, there are often no responses and dialogue become a thing of the past.
It’s incredibly difficult for family carers to handle, and many stop talking themselves not wanting to upset or aggravate their loved ones. However, dementia sufferers can be transformed when they hear a song they recognise and often join in singing and/or dancing along to their favourite songs which can be a precious moment for families to share.
The good news is there are lots of ways to get involved.
With the launch of ‘BBC Music Memories’ classic, popular or even theme tunes can be played and listened to at home.
‘Playlist for Life’ the UKs leading music and dementia charity can create a unique, personal playlist that can reflect someone’s life story and gather tunes that are most deeply attached to memories and emotions. These can be shared and enjoyed by all the family.
The Alzheimer’s society offers interactive ‘Singing for the brain’ sessions where they use singing to bring people with dementia together in a friendly and stimulating way. In fact, 100% of people who use their groups say it improved their lives! On their website you can search for a group near you.
So why not try getting connected to the music and see the effects for yourself. We believe it improves everyone’s wellbeing whatever their age.
If you’d like to find out more about dementia care at home and how we can help please get in touch.
Harleston 01379 640100
Snetterton 01953 667950
Halesworth 01986 800227
15-09-2019
You may have noticed a few changes recently with an ageing parent, relative or partner.
As the effects of aging can creep up subtly it is often down to family members to recognise when someone may need extra assistance.
It’s often hard for elderly people to admit when they need help; they don’t want to be a burden and wish to stay independent at home for as long as possible.
As professional carers we know how quickly things change and we’re also on-hand to answer any questions you may have. Our friendly branches across East Anglia offer tailored domiciliary home care, personal care and specialist support for customers with Parkinson’s, Dementia, illness and disabilities.
Here’s our Top 5 signs to look out for:
If you are caring for a loved one, helping as and when you can, it’s so important to ask for help. You may feel overwhelmed, and emotional trying to cope with the growing situation. We offer a range of options with tailored home care and are here to help.
We work closely with family and health professionals and provide respite care, hospital to home rehabilitation care, and palliative care. We take pride in delivering person centred care. Our step-by-step tailored service allows you to opt for a small amount of support to begin with and build to regular personal care at home as and when needed.
Accredited by the Suffolk and Norfolk councils and The Care Quality Commission registered, we offer compassionate and professional home care with dignity and respect. Whatever type of care you choose for your loved one, we are on-hand to answer any questions you have. We take pride in delivering dedicated expert care and support across Norfolk and Suffolk. If you’d like to find out more, please call any of our branches:
Call us on:
Receive regular dedicated tailored support in the comfort of your own home with First Choice Home Care.
04-09-2019
Don't wilt in the heat! This week we're posting our Top Tips on how to help elderly people keep cool during a heatwave and the importance of taking care.
Elderly people struggle with heatwave temperatures and are more likely to become dehydrated. Prescription medicines and health can impair on how their body responds to heat.
It's not always easy to spot early signs of dehydration; and the hot weather makes careing for a loved-one a little harder. People with impaired mobility may not wish to drink too much if they struggle getting to the bathroom; and this can seriously affect their wellbeing.
1
Drink plenty of cool water and avoid coffee and tea. Make a jug of still iced water, you can add lemon or cucumber as a summer twist. Make sure you drink at least two jugs during the day.
2
Place a cool wet flannel on your forehead and back of the neck. You can wrap a bag of frozen peas and make a compress with these too!
3
Keep curtains closed during the hottest part of the day and windows open.Make the most of the day and always keep in shade. This is Archie, he loves the sun but feels too hot today! 😅
4
Wear lightweight cotton clothing, a sun hat and factor 50 sun cream! You can sit with your feet in a bowl of cool water or take a cool shower (not freezing) to help bring your body temperature down.#temperature #toohot #elderlycare #summer #heatwave
5
Enjoy the sunshine but don't forget heat stroke can affect elderly people - it's a serious condition and requires medical treatment.
01-09-2019
What to look out for and how to be prepared
Heat stroke can affect all ages and can be a serious condition. When the summer temperatures rise many forget to take things a little slower. Independent older people may struggle in the heat, and may also be a little more determined to keep their daily routines.
Spotting the signs of heat stroke can be difficult. Often people may appear just fatigued or overcome with the heat. If you’re a carer yourself, you may also be struggling. Remember you also need to keep hydrated.
Encourage older people to drink plenty of non-alcoholic and caffeine free drinks. Hydration is a key factor in managing body temperature and inadequate replacement of fluids over a period of hot days can result in Heat Stroke.
Heat stroke is a serious condition. When a person’s body temperature rises rapidly, they lose the ability to regulate their temperature by sweating. Medication can impair perspiration and older people may be unaware they are at risk.
Signs to look out for
How to help someone with Heat Stress
If the person is showing severe signs of heat stroke seek medical help immediately.
We offer homecare services across Norfolk and Suffolk. If you’d like to find out more please contact us>
01-08-2019
.jpg)
Live well and feel better
Are you suffering with a long-term health condition or supporting someone that needs long-term care? Currently over 850,000 people in the UK are suffering with Dementia and numbers are set to rise to over 1 million by 2025 and a staggering 2 million by 2051.
Dementia can lead to memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language. Conditions vary and affect people differently but as symptoms progress it often becomes harder to communicate making everyday tasks a challenge. Mood and behaviour changes are common symptoms and leaves families searching for a way to reconnect with the person they know and love.
Recent studies have found music offers a connection between memory and mood. Some exciting initiatives are harnessing the power of music that can be incredibly positive for dementia sufferers and their families.
Vicky McClure’s uplifting BBC documentary ‘Our Dementia Choir’ was a great example of how this therapy can help. With specialists from medicine, music therapy, and performance, Vicky formed a special choir of 20 singers who are living with dementia and saw outstanding results.
The documentary showed evidence that music can help people with Dementia to feel and live better. Singing can increase positive emotional processing and evidence suggests that it can improve someone's mood, behaviour and wellbeing.
Throughout our lives we build a special connection to music and harnessing this can be particularly powerful. Research shows that musical memory is often retained when other memories are lost so listening to favourite songs can actually bring back those old memories and feelings.
When someone with dementia starts to lose their speech, this is particularly upsetting for families who feel they have ‘lost’ their loved ones. Communication is broken, there are often no responses and dialogue become a thing of the past.
It’s incredibly difficult for family carers to handle, and many stop talking themselves not wanting to upset or aggravate their loved ones. However, dementia sufferers can be transformed when they hear a song they recognise and often join in singing and/or dancing along to their favourite songs which can be a precious moment for families to share.
The good news is there are lots of ways to get involved.
With the launch of ‘BBC Music Memories’ classic, popular or even theme tunes can be played and listened to at home.
‘Playlist for Life’ the UKs leading music and dementia charity can create a unique, personal playlist that can reflect someone’s life story and gather tunes that are most deeply attached to memories and emotions. These can be shared and enjoyed by all the family.
The Alzheimer’s society offers interactive ‘Singing for the brain’ sessions where they use singing to bring people with dementia together in a friendly and stimulating way. In fact, 100% of people who use their groups say it improved their lives! On their website you can search for a group near you.
So why not try getting connected to the music and see the effects for yourself. We believe it improves everyone’s wellbeing whatever their age.
If you’d like to find out more about dementia care at home and how we can help please get in touch.
Harleston 01379 640100
Snetterton 01953 667950
Halesworth 01986 800227
24-07-2019
.jpg)
We are delighted to be featured in the June edition of Suffolk Magazine. Find our editorial in the Health & Fitness section. We are also proudly waving the flag for Suffolk Day on 21 June - find out more on our facebook page!
01-06-2019
With summer here making the most of everyday, whatever your age, seems a little easier. Enjoying the simple things in life, listening to the dawn chorus, enjoying a cup of tea and chat in the garden or reading by a sunny window can benefit us all. We all treasure our independence and staying in our own home with familiar surroundings and lifelong memories is one of the most significant aspects in promoting wellbeing and happiness.
Old age needn’t change your home life and with a little planning you can maintain your lifestyle, adjusting home help and support as and when needed. Reassuringly finding the support you need is easier than you think with our flexible homecare service; allowing you to start with support for simple tasks such as cleaning, cooking and companionship with the added benefit of knowing we are on hand if things suddenly change. Many of our carer’s are seen as trusted family friends, popping by with a friendly helping hand.
“Home is the place where I belong, filled with memories and far too many books, it’s my anchor and pleasure in life.”
For many the need for homecare happens almost overnight with an unexpected illness or fall. It’s often during these emergencies that First Choice Home Care is initially introduced to families as we work in close partnership with the NHS, the Norfolk and Suffolk county councils and we are regulated and endorsed by The Care Quality Commission.
Locally based we are an independent family business with friendly branches throughout East Anglia. Our professional care team offer home support, everything from home help through to hands-on homecare, with specialist support for customers with parkinson’s, dementia, alzheimer’s, illness and disabilities.
“Our customer’s wellbeing is an essential part of our service. We actively encourage interests and social engagements”
We understand the importance of family life and work alongside family members to ensure you gain the best support for you. We’ll help customers stay active, getting them out and about, catching up with friends and family or assisting with appointments.
Tailored to your individual requirements our team will discuss the difficulties you have and look for ways to support you and your family. We know it may seem a big step to take but we are here to help. We take time to listen to your needs and we’ll focus on what you can do as opposed to what is no longer possible. If you’d like to make the most of your independence at home call us for more information or simply visit our website.
First Choice Home Care - Dedicated to the provision of Quality Care and Support
31-05-2019
.jpg)
Dedicated to the provision of Quality Care and Support
A Suffolk independent family business First Choice Home Care are celebrating after their Haleston Branch was rated Good by the Care Quality Commission.
Based throughout East Anglia First Choice Home Care offer domiciliary care providing personal care to older people living at home with dementia, parkinsons, alzeimers, people with physical disabilities and those struggling with mobility and mental wellbeing.
The CQC inspection highlighted that people were happy with the service they received and shared good relationships with their care workers. “People were supported by care workers who were skilled, motivated and caring” Care Quality Commision report
The Harleston branch, based at 2 Church Street, is very much as part of the community and take an active part supporting local and national charities.
“This is a great team achievement; we all take pride in delivering consistent professional homecare services and feel very much part of our local community.” Commented Hannah Brock, Registered Manager Harleston Branch.
She continued: “Our team offer specialist homecare for clients suffering from Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and Dementia, as well as respite care to give primary carers a break and palliative care. First Choice Home Care also offer homecare services for people with mental health conditions, physical disabilities, sensory impairments and learning disabilities throughout Norfolk and Suffolk”
The CQC inspection highlighted that people felt involved in their care, they were ‘consulted over their care needs and encouraged to make their own decisions” - one of First Choice Home Care’s key core values, listening to peoples concerns and offering a tailored Personal Care and Support Plan.
Emily Baldwin, Area Manager First Choice Home Care, said: “We’re proud of our professional values and homecare service standards Supporting customers throughout East Anglia we take the time to listen to peoples needs adjsuting care as and when needed to provide a tailored homecare service”
Care Quality Commission, CQC, is the independent regulator of all health and social care in England. We are given powers by the government to register, monitor and inspect all health and care services.
23-05-2019
As life expectancy increases, the demands on family members have escalated and according to the latest research from Care UK over 5 million people are now trying to balance caring and working. The mounting pressure that this exerts is resulting in over 600 people a day giving up their jobs to care for a loved one at home.
Keeping a relative at home has its obvious benefits which is why so many of us try to take on the care of a loved one. The patient has less disruption compared to moving into residential care where their surroundings are unfamiliar, and it avoids that whole process which can seem intimidating at a time when we are feeling at our weakest. Remaining in their home environment with consistent care delivered by a familiar face seems like the ideal situation but you don’t always have to shoulder the full responsibility yourself.
Using a home care agency can be a vital support and can release some of the pressure shouldered by the family. Even a small amount of extra help can lift the load leaving you feeling more able to cope and ultimately help your patient more as your mental and physical strength is not so depleted.
Many fear that patients would feel let down by them if they use a professional carer, but this is rarely the case. A fresh friendly face can offer a new outlook and change of scene which can be refreshing and stimulating. In addition, patients would often prefer a professional to attend to their personal needs rather than a family member as they find it more comfortable; keeping their dignity intact.
First Choice care professionals are equipped with extensive training and can offer advice, support and valuable links to other services that may be required such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists and nursing care. Their experience can offer a wealth of invaluable advice and support.
It can be a daunting task to find suitable home care but we recommend the best place to start is to contact your local home care agency who will arrange a care needs assessment and provide a personal care and support plan.
First Choice Home Care provides a range of services from live-in care to daily or weekly visits with specialist support for mental health and wellbeing, Dementia care, Parkinsons care, Respite care, Palliative care and disabled care.
Contact us - we're here to help: 01953 667950
13-04-2019
Finding help when a loved one has a terminal illness can be very overwhelming and often people feel there is no-where to turn.
First choice Home Care provide supportive care to help people have a good quality of life; even in the last few days. We work closely alongside families to ensure there is a balance; working with respect and diligence to provide flexible palliative homecare.
Getting support from friends and family can help at this time but may be a little daunting so we’ve included a recent account which may offer some guidance:
“The heart wrenching grief you feel when you hear that a loved one’s condition is terminal is overwhelming. Two short weeks earlier my Mother was playing bridge with her friends but after a series of strokes she couldn’t speak, walk and was even having trouble swallowing. Her care requirements had changed overnight, and I didn’t know how to meet them.
She had always been terrified of going into a nursing home and I felt that I owed it to her to try to nurse her at home. However, the grief I felt was soon coupled with an overwhelming fear - how would I cope, would I get it right, what support equipment did I need?”
Choosing a local homecare agency to offer support and palliative care is an option many people prefer. We provide a 24 hour support service, allowing you to register your needs at any time. We will arrange a home visit to assess your needs and develop a detailed palliative care plan, which will include all the care you need from personal care to companionship.
“A reassuring voice arranged a home visit by their care manager who immediately introduced herself to my Mother. Her tone touched me as it was respectful and compassionate without being condescending.
She fully assessed both of our needs and concerns and took time to explain to me what to expect in the next few months. Whilst upsetting they countered the likely future issues with solutions and for the first time, I started to think this may be manageable.
Within 24 hours they had arranged for an occupational therapist to do a home assessment and within a number of days specialist equipment was delivered from pressure mattresses, hoists and even an electric chair. A speech and language therapist and dietician from the hospital came and they made sure they were present for these visits to ensure consistency in her care. Above all their relentless calm approach transferred to me and the fear started to dissipate. “
It’s important to find a homecare agency that will work with you, be responsive and flexible offering extra care as and when you need it. Looking after loved ones and maintaining their dignity can be an emotive and challenging experience. We are on hand to offer homecare support and work alongside other specialists to offer peace of mind.
“The 24-7 care was draining and initially they sent a carer to sit with Mum. These three hours in the day were a God send. I could go shopping, have time with my family or just sleep!
As my Mothers care needs progressed, I found the personal care aspect too upsetting and also too physical. They quickly organised a rota for a pair of carers to come four times a day to help with this, so I could spend quality time with Mum.
I found the responsibility of being a full-time carer very difficult and as Mums condition deteriorated, the carers involved the hospice team who offered medical support and advice in her last few days. When she did finally pass away, family were at her side with her beloved cat on the bed and I would honestly describe this as a perfect death - words I never thought would sit easily together.
Unknowingly to me the care team throughout these last days were monitoring our situation hourly and managed to allow me to be alone with her when I needed to be and then discreetly appeared to help after her passing and to support us.
With their support I realised her wish of dying at home peacefully and for that I am eternally grateful.”
If you’d like more details on our palliative care and home care services please contact us and we will arrange a home visit to talk through your needs. First Choice Home Care offer care services across East Anglia with branches in Norfolk and Suffolk.
12-02-2019
Are you suffering with a long-term health condition or supporting someone that needs long-term care? Currently over 850,000 people in the UK are suffering with Dementia and numbers are set to rise to over 1 million by 2025 and a staggering 2 million by 2051.
Dementia can lead to memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language. Conditions vary and affect people differently but as symptoms progress it often becomes harder to communicate making everyday tasks a challenge. Mood and behaviour changes are common symptoms and leaves families searching for a way to reconnect with the person they know and love.
Recent studies have found music offers a connection between memory and mood. Some exciting initiatives are harnessing the power of music that can be incredibly positive for dementia sufferers and their families.
Vicky McClure’s uplifting BBC documentary ‘Our Dementia Choir’ was a great example of how this therapy can help. With specialists from medicine, music therapy, and performance, Vicky formed a special choir of 20 singers who are living with dementia and saw outstanding results.
The documentary showed evidence that music can help people with Dementia to feel and live better. Singing can increase positive emotional processing and evidence suggests that it can improve someone's mood, behaviour and wellbeing.
Throughout our lives we build a special connection to music and harnessing this can be particularly powerful. Research shows that musical memory is often retained when other memories are lost so listening to favourite songs can actually bring back those old memories and feelings.
When someone with dementia starts to lose their speech, this is particularly upsetting for families who feel they have ‘lost’ their loved ones. Communication is broken, there are often no responses and dialogue become a thing of the past.
It’s incredibly difficult for family carers to handle, and many stop talking themselves not wanting to upset or aggravate their loved ones. However, dementia sufferers can be transformed when they hear a song they recognise and often join in singing and/or dancing along to their favourite songs which can be a precious moment for families to share.
The good news is there are lots of ways to get involved.
With the launch of ‘BBC Music Memories’ classic, popular or even theme tunes can be played and listened to at home.
‘Playlist for Life’ the UKs leading music and dementia charity can create a unique, personal playlist that can reflect someone’s life story and gather tunes that are most deeply attached to memories and emotions. These can be shared and enjoyed by all the family.
The Alzheimer’s society offers interactive ‘Singing for the brain’ sessions where they use singing to bring people with dementia together in a friendly and stimulating way. In fact, 100% of people who use their groups say it improved their lives! On their website you can search for a group near you.
So why not try getting connected to the music and see the effects for yourself. We believe it improves everyone’s wellbeing whatever their age.
If you’d like to find out more about dementia care at home and how we can help please get in touch.
Harleston 01379 640100
Snetterton 01953 667950
Halesworth 01986 800227
30-11--0001
.jpg)
Are you suffering with a long-term health condition or supporting someone that needs long-term care? Currently over 850,000 people in the UK are suffering with Dementia and numbers are set to rise to over 1 million by 2025 and a staggering 2 million by 2051.
Dementia can lead to memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language. Conditions vary and affect people differently but as symptoms progress it often becomes harder to communicate making everyday tasks a challenge. Mood and behaviour changes are common symptoms and leaves families searching for a way to reconnect with the person they know and love.
Recent studies have found music offers a connection between memory and mood. Some exciting initiatives are harnessing the power of music that can be incredibly positive for dementia sufferers and their families.
Vicky McClure’s uplifting BBC documentary ‘Our Dementia Choir’ was a great example of how this therapy can help. With specialists from medicine, music therapy, and performance, Vicky formed a special choir of 20 singers who are living with dementia and saw outstanding results.
The documentary showed evidence that music can help people with Dementia to feel and live better. Singing can increase positive emotional processing and evidence suggests that it can improve someone's mood, behaviour and wellbeing.
Throughout our lives we build a special connection to music and harnessing this can be particularly powerful. Research shows that musical memory is often retained when other memories are lost so listening to favourite songs can actually bring back those old memories and feelings.
When someone with dementia starts to lose their speech, this is particularly upsetting for families who feel they have ‘lost’ their loved ones. Communication is broken, there are often no responses and dialogue become a thing of the past.
It’s incredibly difficult for family carers to handle, and many stop talking themselves not wanting to upset or aggravate their loved ones. However, dementia sufferers can be transformed when they hear a song they recognise and often join in singing and/or dancing along to their favourite songs which can be a precious moment for families to share.
The good news is there are lots of ways to get involved.
With the launch of ‘BBC Music Memories’ classic, popular or even theme tunes can be played and listened to at home.
‘Playlist for Life’ the UKs leading music and dementia charity can create a unique, personal playlist that can reflect someone’s life story and gather tunes that are most deeply attached to memories and emotions. These can be shared and enjoyed by all the family.
The Alzheimer’s society offers interactive ‘Singing for the brain’ sessions where they use singing to bring people with dementia together in a friendly and stimulating way. In fact, 100% of people who use their groups say it improved their lives! On their website you can search for a group near you.
So why not try getting connected to the music and see the effects for yourself. We believe it improves everyone’s wellbeing whatever their age.
If you’d like to find out more about dementia care at home and how we can help please get in touch.
Harleston 01379 640100
Snetterton 01953 667950
Halesworth 01986 800227
30-11--0001
.jpg)
Are you suffering with a long-term health condition or supporting someone that needs long-term care? Currently over 850,000 people in the UK are suffering with Dementia and numbers are set to rise to over 1 million by 2025 and a staggering 2 million by 2051.
Dementia can lead to memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language. Conditions vary and affect people differently but as symptoms progress it often becomes harder to communicate making everyday tasks a challenge. Mood and behaviour changes are common symptoms and leaves families searching for a way to reconnect with the person they know and love.
Recent studies have found music offers a connection between memory and mood. Some exciting initiatives are harnessing the power of music that can be incredibly positive for dementia sufferers and their families.
Vicky McClure’s uplifting BBC documentary ‘Our Dementia Choir’ was a great example of how this therapy can help. With specialists from medicine, music therapy, and performance, Vicky formed a special choir of 20 singers who are living with dementia and saw outstanding results.
The documentary showed evidence that music can help people with Dementia to feel and live better. Singing can increase positive emotional processing and evidence suggests that it can improve someone's mood, behaviour and wellbeing.
Throughout our lives we build a special connection to music and harnessing this can be particularly powerful. Research shows that musical memory is often retained when other memories are lost so listening to favourite songs can actually bring back those old memories and feelings.
When someone with dementia starts to lose their speech, this is particularly upsetting for families who feel they have ‘lost’ their loved ones. Communication is broken, there are often no responses and dialogue become a thing of the past.
It’s incredibly difficult for family carers to handle, and many stop talking themselves not wanting to upset or aggravate their loved ones. However, dementia sufferers can be transformed when they hear a song they recognise and often join in singing and/or dancing along to their favourite songs which can be a precious moment for families to share.
The good news is there are lots of ways to get involved.
With the launch of ‘BBC Music Memories’ classic, popular or even theme tunes can be played and listened to at home.
‘Playlist for Life’ the UKs leading music and dementia charity can create a unique, personal playlist that can reflect someone’s life story and gather tunes that are most deeply attached to memories and emotions. These can be shared and enjoyed by all the family.
The Alzheimer’s society offers interactive ‘Singing for the brain’ sessions where they use singing to bring people with dementia together in a friendly and stimulating way. In fact, 100% of people who use their groups say it improved their lives! On their website you can search for a group near you.
So why not try getting connected to the music and see the effects for yourself. We believe it improves everyone’s wellbeing whatever their age.
If you’d like to find out more about dementia care at home and how we can help please get in touch.
Harleston 01379 640100
Snetterton 01953 667950
Halesworth 01986 800227
30-11--0001
