Maintaining Dignity During Personal Care

At Home Instead North Devon & Exmoor, we understand that personal care, including showering, washing, and bathing, is a deeply personal experience. For many elderly individuals, needing help with these activities can be daunting, leading to feelings of vulnerability and discomfort. We emphasise maintaining dignity, privacy, and comfort during this essential part of daily care. Our goal is to provide compassionate support that respects each client’s personal boundaries and preferences, ensuring a positive and comfortable experience.

Personal Care Services: Respectful and Supportive Assistance

Our personal care services are designed to be respectful and empowering. We tailor our care plans to meet each individual’s unique needs, whether they require full assistance or just a helping hand. Our carers assist with various aspects of personal care, using gentle methods to ensure comfort and encourage independence.

Companionship during Personal Care: Providing Reassurance and Emotional Support

The presence of a trusted companion can make a significant difference during personal care. Our companionship services offer both physical assistance and emotional support. Our carers build strong, trusting relationships with clients, providing reassurance and comfort during vulnerable times. With visit lengths of at least an hour, our personal care support isn’t rushed.

Home Help Services: Creating a Safe and Comfortable Environment

A safe and comfortable environment is crucial for maintaining dignity during personal care. Our home help services include preparing the bathroom and using necessary aids and adaptations. We assess and adjust the environment to ensure safety and accessibility, making the personal care process as comfortable as possible.

Specialised Care Services: Tailored Support for Complex Needs

We provide specialised care for clients with specific health conditions or limited mobility. Our carers are trained to assist clients with a wide range of needs, using adaptive equipment and techniques to ensure safe and comfortable personal care. This personalised approach includes recognising client preferences and using appropriate personal care products, referring to specialist intervention from Occupational Therapists or Community Nurses when necessary.

“Home Instead North Devon has been a wonderful resource for our family. The carers are so respectful and kind, especially when helping my mother with her baths. They always ensure she feels comfortable and dignified, which is incredibly important to us.”
— Mrs. L., Barnstaple

“The carers from Home Instead have been fantastic. They make my father feel at ease during his showers, which was something he was very anxious about. Their professionalism and compassion have made a huge difference in his daily living and overall quality of life.”
— Mr. S., Ilfracombe

“I cannot thank Home Instead enough for the care they provide. I was very nervous about needing help with washing, but the carers are so gentle and understanding. They make sure I feel safe and respected, which has made all the difference.”
— Ms. J., South Molton

To further enhance the safety and accessibility of your bathroom, there are a number of suppliers in the North Devon area who can provide advice and equipment. Occupational Therapists will make recommendations on aids that can be put in place, and these can often be installed and funded by the NHS or local authority. Disability Living grants can also be applied for to cover the cost of home adaptions to support living at home safely.   

Valley Mobility Services in Barnstaple offers a wide range of high-quality bathroom aids designed to make bathing easier and safer for elderly people, as well as those with disabilities or mobility challenges. Their products, such as the Bellavita Bathlift, are particularly effective in helping elderly individuals maintain their independence and dignity while bathing.

Other products include bath lifts, grab rails, non-slip mats, and other essential aids that help transform bathrooms into safe and accessible spaces. Valley Mobility’s commitment to quality and safety makes them a trusted partner in helping elderly people maintain their dignity and independence.

Home Solutions SW  in Barnstaple specialises in creating accessible bathrooms for the elderly, disabled, and those with limited mobility. They offer customised solutions, including wet rooms, easy-access baths, and showers, designed to enhance safety and independence. Their services range from simple modifications to complete remodels, with a focus on functionality and aesthetics. They provide a no-obligation quote and design service, and all work is completed by their own staff and fully guaranteed.

Braunton Mobility offers bespoke wet room installations in North Devon, designed for accessibility and safety. Their wet rooms feature waterproof walls, non-slip flooring, and are installed on a single level to eliminate steps or high shower trays, making them ideal for those with disabilities or mobility issues. Customisable options include walk-in baths, grab bars, and storage solutions. They provide a full survey, design, and installation service, ensuring the space meets individual needs and preferences.

Q: How do you ensure privacy during personal care?
A: Privacy is a top priority for us. Our carers are trained to respect the personal space and boundaries of our clients. We use screens, towels, and other methods to ensure that clients feel secure and private during the process.

Q: Can I choose the gender of the carer who assists me?
A: Yes, we understand that some clients may have preferences regarding the gender of their carer. We make every effort to accommodate your request to ensure your comfort.

Q: What types of bathing aids do you provide?
A: We don’t provide these directly, but can signpost you to either an Occupational Therapist (usually via your GP) or to a company that can provide them.   

Q: How do you handle clients with mobility issues?
A: Our carers are trained in safe moving and transfer techniques to assist clients with mobility challenges. We can also use specialised equipment to ensure that washing is safe and comfortable for all clients, regardless of their mobility level.

Q: Is the personal care assistance service available on a flexible schedule?
A: We cannot offer completely ad hoc support, but we do offer flexible scheduling to meet the needs of our clients. Whether you require daily assistance or help on specific days, we work with you to create a schedule that fits your lifestyle and preferences, and we can adjust this as your situation changes. 

At Home Instead North Devon & Exmoor, maintaining dignity during your care is at the heart of everything we do. We are dedicated to providing care that respects your privacy, ensures your comfort, and enhances your quality of life. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support you or your loved one.