Articles by Dr Jamie Wilson
Dr Jamie Wilson is hometouch’s founder and Chief Medical Officer. Jamie’s creation of hometouch was inspired by his work as a dementia psychiatrist in the NHS, and he has written about healthcare issues in The Times and the Evening Standard. Jamie has a MBBS from the University of Leeds and has spent a decade in the NHS, working as a Psychiatric Registrar and Memory Specialist at Imperial College Hospital.
Funding Live-in Care
Live-in care is an increasingly popular option for those who require assistance with daily activities but wish to remain in their own homes. For many, it’s a preferable alternative to residential care, offering a sense of independence and comfort. However, the cost of live-in care can be substantial, and understanding the various funding options available is crucial for making informed decisions. This article delves into several key funding sources: Attendance Allowance, Direct Payments, Immediate Needs Annuity, Equity Release, and NHS Continuing Healthcare. Attendance Allowance Attendance Allowance is a benefit provided by the UK government for individuals aged 65 or over who need help with personal care due to physical or mental disability. It’s a non-means-tested benefit, meaning it’s available regardless of income, savings, or national insurance contributions. There are two rates – a lower rate for those who need daytime help and a higher rate for those requiring around-the-clock care.…
Live-In Care Packages – What Social Workers Need to Know
For many elderly citizens and those with disabilities, living independently is more than a challenge; it can be downright impossible. Live-in care is becoming an increasingly popular way for those in need of extra help to remain in their own…
Care Package for Elderly Patients Leaving the Hospital
When elderly patients are discharged from the hospital, they often need help with transitioning back into their home environment. One way to ensure their safe and comfortable transition is by creating a care package filled with helpful items that can…
Would you like to know more about Hometouch's high quality live-in care service?
How Much are Dementia Care Home Fees in 2023?
Care home fees for dementia care homes in the UK vary from around £1000 to more than £3000 per week. Care homes fees for dementia care in the UK have been increasing year on year by at least 5%. This is 0.5% higher than the average care home fee which has also increased by 5% per annum over a 3-year period so there seems to be a trend showing that care home fees are increasing at faster rate than general living costs. Another reason is due to the an ageing population and people newly diagnosed with dementia which means that there are not enough specialist care homes available at present. Additionally, staff shortages are driving up costs which is further contributing to dementia care home fees inflation. The cost of dementia care homes varies across different regions, care homes and countries. This may be due to different government policies, rates…
Speak to one of our knowledgeable care advisers about Hometouch’s high quality live-in care service
The best clocks for people living with dementia
Losing track of time is one of the early symptoms of dementia. Whether it’s a missed doctor’s appointment or a frantic phone call about whether they’ve had lunch, losing track of time can be a distressing experience for your loved…
How to find Care After Leaving Hospital
How do you arrange care after hospital discharge? After hospital care for the elderly comes with certain challenges, that include devising a robust care plan, facilitating a safe transition to the home environment, and ensuring that the patient remains independent…
Dementia cafes and their benefits
Support, understanding, and social interaction are things we can all benefit from. Dementia cafes seek to provide exactly that for people whose lives are affected by the condition. Up and down the country dementia cafes and memory groups are providing an invaluable service to local communities. At Hometouch, we know how tough a dementia diagnosis can be, both for the person living with the condition and their families. So, with dementia cafes playing such a vital role for so many people, we shine a light on the support they provide and explain why they are so beneficial. What are dementia cafes? Dementia cafes provide a safe, welcoming space for those whose lives are affected by dementia. They give people living with dementia and their families a chance to meet others in a similar situation as well as getting access to expert advice. Often ran by charities, community groups, or volunteers,…
How Should I Interview Live-in Carers?
Just like any big decision, this requires time, effort, and research. This article will help you take the first steps in interviewing live in carers. We will tell you what aspects of a live in carer matter during the first meeting with them and which of these will have an impact on their time with you or your loved one. This information will help you judge whether they are the right fit for you or to keep looking.We’re here to help. Call us if you have any questions about our exceptional live-in care.020 3870 4220 What attributes should I look for in a live in carer? Essentially, these questions revolve around the usual ‘getting to know you’ phase in any new relationship. Hometouch already has a rigorous screening process which includes things like reference checks, induction, and training, but in the end, you are in charge of judging which kind…
What is the CQC (Care Quality Commission) And What Do They Do?
The CQC, or the Care Quality Commission, independently regulates health and social care in England. The CQC is in charge of ensuring that people receive the care they need.We’re here to help. Call us if you have any questions about our exceptional live-in care.020 3870 4220 It regulates care in areas of safety, effectiveness, compassion and quality. These are five standards by which the CQC reviews care providers: Safe – You stay protected from any abuse or harm through registered agencies.Effective – You fully benefit from the treatment or service being provided.Caring – The service hires staff that treat you with compassion, kindness, dignity, and respect.Responsive – The service is organised and quick to respond to your needs.Well-led – the leadership, management, and governance of the organisation make sure it’s providing high-quality care. What are the CQC’s values? The CQC defines their values as: Excellence – be high-performing as an…
Home Modification Ideas for The Elderly
As our loved ones get older you may find them complaining about new discomfort that have limited their activity. You may even have noticed the increased difficulty they are facing yourself. There are many home modifications for the elderly that can help making a home more comfortable and safe. We take a look at some key activities that can help.We’re here to help. Call us if you have any questions about our exceptional live-in care.020 3870 4220 This is not just limited to outdoor activities but also inside one’s own home. Just one flight of stairs can be a challenge for someone with osteoarthritis. Home adaptations are designed to make it safer and easier for your loved ones to stick to their normal daily routine. These can include many changes from technical to physical ones. The smallest change can make the biggest difference for the elderly. Handrails for the elderly…
Apply for live-in care jobs
Hometouch has been one of the best companies I have worked for in the care sector! I have always been told I’m appreciated and been made to feel like it too. I’m so happy to be a part of the Hometouch team
Shaheen
£750 - £900 per week. Double bank holiday pay
You choose your own clients
Clinical support
Free training, webinars and supervision