Do You Have to Pay for Carers in Your Own Home?

When you need care at home, cost and available options are often top concerns. In Scotland, several home care choices exist. Understanding these options helps you make informed decisions about your care. This post explains the types of care offered by MyLife Edinburgh and the Self-Directed Support (SDS) options available.

Types of Care Provided by MyLife Edinburgh

MyLife Edinburgh offers a wide range of home care services tailored to individual needs. These include:

• Visiting Home Care
  Carers in your own home visit at scheduled times to help with daily tasks such as personal care, meal preparation, medication, and household chores. You can adjust the frequency and duration to suit your needs.
• Companionship Care
  If you feel lonely or isolated, companionship care provides social interaction and emotional support. Carers can join you on outings, assist with hobbies, or simply keep you company at home.
• Respite Care
  Respite care gives primary caregivers a break while ensuring loved ones receive proper care. This service can last for a few hours, several days, or even weeks.
• Dementia Support
  Specialised dementia care promotes independence and improves quality of life. Carers in your own home are trained to provide support that meets the unique needs of individuals living with dementia.
• Live-In Care
  For continuous support, live-in care places a carer in your home around the clock. This option offers peace of mind for both you and your family.
• End-of-Life Care
  Compassionate end-of-life care focuses on comfort and dignity. Carers provide physical, emotional, and practical support during the final stages of life.

These services are flexible and can be customised to your situation. MyLife Edinburgh is committed to high-quality, person-centred care that enhances independence and well-being.

Self-Directed Support (SDS) Options in Scotland

SDS gives you more control over your care. There are four main options:

1. Direct Payment
   Receive a payment from your local council and use it to arrange and pay for carers in your own home. This option offers the most control.
2. Directing the Available Support
   You choose the support you want, and the council or another organisation arranges it for you. This provides a balance of control and convenience.
3. Council-Arranged Support
   The council manages all aspects of your care. This is ideal if you prefer not to handle arrangements yourself.
4. A Mix of the Above
   Combine options to suit your needs. For example, you might use direct payments for some services while the council arranges others.

Do You Have to Pay for Carers In Your Own Home?

Costs vary based on the type and level of care. Some people qualify for financial help from their local council, while others pay privately. The council will carry out a financial assessment to determine eligibility and contribution.

If you qualify for SDS, the council provides a budget based on your needs. You can use this budget for direct payments or let the council manage services. While some services are fully funded, others may require a personal contribution. The assessment considers income, savings, and assets.

Conclusion

Knowing your care options and SDS choices helps you plan effectively. MyLife Edinburgh offers flexible, person-centred services that promote independence and quality of life. Whether you manage your care or let the council arrange it, there is an option to suit your preferences.

If you have questions or need guidance, contact us today. We are here to help you navigate the process and ensure you receive the support you need.