Today, more elderly people than ever want to remain in their own homes as long as possible, looking for better care and quality of life as they age.

According to the Social Care Institute for Excellence, the demand for home care for elderly people in their own homes has grown in the last few years and looks set to continue. There are many reasons for this, which are outlined below, and which, if you are looking to make a decision about your own care, may help you decide if it is the right option for you.

It’s what you want

This is the primary reason for you to choose home care in your own home. It is what you want and what will make you happy. It means you won’t have to leave the home you know and love and that you can grow old in a familiar environment but with the extra care you need provided by in-home carers. Plus, staying in your own home provides you with the stability you might need when other things in your life, such as your health status are changing. It also means you stay connected to your local community, friends and family.

Affordability

Home care for elderly people in their own homes is usually a lot more affordable than other types of care, especially with the cost of care homes increasing year on year and people being asked to pay more towards their own care. Depending on your financial situation and the number of hours of care you need, this can make in-home care a compelling option for you.

Personalised care

When you have in-home care, you get a real say in the type of care you get, when you get that care, and who provides it, possibly down to recruiting your carers. This is a level of personalised care that you won’t get in a residential facility and provides the level of choice and control needed to maintain your independence.

You hold onto your independence

Many people worry more about losing their independence than they do about the medical conditions they may face as a result of the ageing process. Staying in your own home means you get choice and control over your life in a way you wouldn’t if you moved into a residential home. Even if this choice is as simple as when you have a cup of tea and the biscuits that go with it, it’s a choice that can mean a lot.

As with all the big decisions you face in life, there is no right answer to the question of what care is best. Instead, it is more a case of what care is best for you. You need to think about this carefully, weighing up the options you have and considering all the points discussed above. Talk to your family about their thoughts, and get advice from professionals who can give you unbiased advice about your options, now and in the future. Then, decide what you want, talk to a reputable firm such as Guardian about your needs, and enjoy your later years.