Navigating home care options can be overwhelming, but finding the right information and support can make all the difference. Thankfully, in Ireland, there are lots of government and charity resources available to help. These organisations provide useful information, tailored guidance and hands-on support to assist carers, seniors and families through every step of the care journey, enhancing quality of life for anyone who needs extra help at home.
Below are some useful home care resources, helping you quickly find the information you need.
Health Service Executive (HSE) Caring for Older People
The HSE website has a dedicated section on caring for older people, highlighting a range of government-backed support services. On this page, you will find useful information if you’re currently caring for an older person, from hospital services and community services to home support services and finance services. Their practical advice guides families on how to help people remain safely at home for as long as possible. Reaching out to the HSE is often the first step in arranging home care and understanding what help your family is entitled to.
HSE Carers’ Support
This part of the HSE website focuses on supporting family carers, recognising the essential role they play in supporting someone with illness, disability or frailty. It gives information about Community Health Organisations, as well as carers groups and respite services, helping to make carers feel less alone and relieve the burden on those providing daily care. It also includes information about benefits that carers might qualify for, such as the Carer’s Support Grant and Domiciliary Care Allowance. These financial supports can be invaluable.
HSE Home Support Services
The HSE Home Support Service, previously known as the Home Help Service, provides free assistance to older adults, helping them remain in their own homes for as long as possible. This service is available to people aged 65 or over and offers support with everyday tasks. Individual care plans are tailored to each client following a needs assessment, and services will be provided by the HSE or an external provider. When applying for Home Support Services, you can complete the application form yourself or ask someone to complete it on your behalf.
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland (ASI)
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland is a specialist charity supporting those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. They operate a national helpline, providing confidential information and support, and there is a lot of practical advice on their website for people with dementia and their families. Their resources can help people come to terms with a diagnosis, understand what to expect, and connect with the right support for ongoing care.
Dementia Services Information and Development Centre (DSIDC)
DSIDC is a national centre for excellence in dementia, offering three core professional services: education, information and research. Their mission is to transform people’s understanding and awareness of dementia, and they have lots of free information on their website. The DSIDC’s work ensures that both carers and those living with dementia can benefit from best practice guidance, making day-to-day living safer and more manageable.
Understand Together
Understand Together is a public awareness campaign led by the HSE, working with the ASI, to challenge stigma and provide information about dementia. It shares vital information about the different types of dementia, as well as steps families can take to support people living with dementia. This website is a useful resource for anyone wanting to make life better for their loved ones and create a more inclusive environment for people post-diagnosis.
Irish Dementia Cafe Network
The Irish Dementia Cafe Network provides a welcoming space for anyone affected by dementia. There are several dementia cafes in Ireland run by volunteers, offering monthly meetings that are completely free of charge. These cafes provide a safe space to meet others facing similar challenges, and enable you to access information directly from healthcare professionals or local dementia advisors on practical topics like day-to-day care or available community services.
Citizens Information
Citizens Information is a central portal for clear, official advice. It explains your rights and entitlements, and provides the practical steps needed to access government services in Ireland. Topics include health, social welfare, legal issues and accommodation. The website lays out eligibility criteria and application processes for various supports, and can help individuals and their families confidently navigate Ireland’s care system.
Free Legal Advice Centres (FLAC)
FLAC is an independent human rights organisation offering free and confidential appointments with a volunteer lawyer. They provide first stop assistance, basic legal information, tailored advice and referrals for people who can’t afford legal advice.. For home carers and families, this service removes barriers to understanding your legal options, making it easier to plan for the future and resolve concerns about care rights or inheritance, for instance.
Legal Aid Board
The Legal Aid Board is a publicly funded organisation providing legal aid services to those who qualify. They cover areas like family law and assisted decision-making, and can be particularly beneficial to those dealing with elderly care or property matters. They ensure vulnerable individuals and their families can access justice, helping resolve disputes or set up legal protections, like Enduring Powers of Attorney, without high legal fees.
Home and Community Care Ireland (HCCI)
HCCI is a solution-oriented trade association for private home care providers in Ireland. They are committed to improving standards of care across the industry, ensuring solutions in the community are thoughtfully designed to support people. For families arranging private care, HCCI makes it easy to find dedicated home care providers with their online search tool. The information they provide enables you to make informed decisions about care and access services that are right for your specific needs.
Fold Housing
Fold Housing provides a combination of accommodation and associated service options. They offer apartments and houses for older people, including supported housing with 24-hour care for those who need it. They enable older adults and those with additional needs to live independently for longer, while ensuring they have the on-site assistance they need. They are an excellent solution for individuals who are no longer able to live entirely alone, but still wish to retain autonomy and connection to their community.
Get In Touch
If you are exploring home care options or have any questions about how professional carers can help look after a loved one, Bongiwe Home Carers is here to help you. You can get in touch with our team today, and we will be happy to provide some advice and support suited to your unique circumstances. We pride ourselves on making day-to-day life easier for seniors and families, and you can rely on our compassionate home care services.
