Home Instead Richmond’s Guide to Care
Considering care for your loved ones can be challenging to navigate. Here's how Home Instead Richmond can support you and your family.
After spending time with a loved one this Christmas, you may have noticed some small but significant changes. Mum might be getting a bit more forgetful; you may have had more frequent phone calls (or, worryingly, fewer), or perhaps Dad, who was always so sociable, is becoming hesitant about going out. It could be they’re no longer driving or feel anxious about leaving the house, or even showing signs of dementia.
These shifts can feel unsettling. It’s natural to wonder whether it’s time to seek support, and many people in your position begin to feel the weight of responsibility. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. You may be stepping into a role now known as “carenting” — balancing care for an ageing parent while managing your own work, family, and personal life.
At Home Instead Richmond, we understand how emotional this can feel. But the good news is, you don’t have to do it on your own. Our simple step-by-step process is designed to make taking that first step as easy as possible.
Here’s what to expect when you choose Home Instead Richmond.
Step 1: Start with a Call – We’ll Guide You From Here
The hardest part is often taking the first step, but it’s also the most important. When you call Home Instead Richmond, you’ll speak with a member of our team who truly understands what you’re going through. There’s no pressure, just a chance to have an open, honest conversation.
We’ll ask questions like:
- “How has Mum (or Dad) been managing lately?”
- “What are some of the changes you’ve noticed?”
- Are there times of day where you think they require more support?
This is your chance to talk about anything that’s been on your mind — from practical concerns (like cooking, cleaning, or getting to appointments) to emotional well-being (like loneliness or anxiety). We’ll listen carefully, offer guidance, and explain the types of support we provide.
After the call, we’ll send you a follow-up email summarising everything we’ve discussed. This gives you time to reflect, discuss it with other family members and with your loved one who requires care.
Step 2: Home Visit and Care Assessment
If you’d like to move forward, we’ll arrange a visit from one of our experienced Client Care Managers. This is a friendly, informal meeting at your loved one’s home where we’ll get to know them on a personal level.
This visit is about more than assessing care needs. We take time to understand your loved one’s interests, personality, and preferences. We ask questions like:
- “What makes you happy during the day?”
- “Are there activities you enjoy but find difficult now?”
This helps us tailor our care to suit your loved one as an individual, not just someone with a “list of needs”.
During the visit, we’ll also assess practical factors like home safety and the type of support required. Please note, this isn’t a formal inspection. It’s a relaxed conversation that focuses on how we can make life better for your loved one.
Step 3: Personalised Care Plan
Once we have a clear understanding of your loved one’s needs, we create a bespoke care plan. This care plan sets out the support they’ll receive, the schedule of visits, and any specific requests they may have.
Unlike other providers, Home Instead Richmond prioritises person-centred care. Our goal is to make life more enjoyable for your loved one. This might mean helping them maintain a beloved hobby, supporting them to stay connected with friends, or simply creating more opportunities for joy in their daily life.
The care plan isn’t fixed — it’s flexible. If your loved one’s needs change, we’ll adapt. Care should evolve as people do.
Step 4: Matching Your Loved One with a Care Professional
We believe that relationships matter. That’s why Home Instead Richmond puts so much effort into finding the perfect match for your loved one.
We don’t just look for someone with the right skills. We look for someone with the right personality, temperament, and shared interests. Our matching process ensures that your loved one will feel comfortable, happy, and supported by someone they trust.
Before the first care visit, we’ll introduce your loved one to their new Care Professional. This way, everyone feels confident, prepared, and reassured.
Why Take the First Step?
It’s normal to feel uncertain about taking the first step. But waiting too long can make things more difficult for everyone. The good news is, you don’t have to figure it all out alone. With Home Instead Richmond, you have a dedicated partner in care.
Our process is simple, stress-free, and designed to help you feel more in control. From that first phone call, you’ll have a clear path forward.
Why Families Choose Home Instead Richmond
When it comes to choosing care, families often tell us that all they really want is for their loved one to be happy and safe at home. Research from Oxford University and New Ageing Index shows that they’re not alone.
- 90% of family caregivers believe that being cared for at home is the best option for their loved one.
- Older adults treated at home for some medical conditions show better outcomes than those in hospital.
With Home Instead Richmond, you don’t have to give up your job or your personal time. We work in partnership with you, sharing the responsibility and offering support where it’s needed most.
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you’ve noticed that your loved one is struggling more this year, don’t wait for things to get worse. Take the first step today.
At Home Instead Richmond, we’re ready to listen, guide, and support you. Our friendly team is here to answer your questions and offer compassionate advice. There’s no pressure, just a chance to explore your options.
Call us today to get started.
