What is the home care package for the elderly in Ireland?

According to the OECD, Ireland has one of the highest rates of healthy life years at age 65, and maintaining independence is a key goal for many seniors. A crucial support in this effort is what was formerly known as the home care package for the elderly in Ireland, now officially called the Home Support Service.

Quick Summary

The home care package, now the HSE Home Support Service, is a free, needs-assessed program providing practical help with daily tasks for eligible older people to remain living at home. It is not means-tested and is delivered by the HSE or approved providers.

Key Points

• Official Name: The 'home care package' is officially known as the HSE Home Support Service in Ireland, which provides state-funded support.

• No Means Test: Eligibility for the service is based on an individual's assessed care needs, not their income or a means test.

• Needs Assessment: A healthcare professional from the HSE conducts a Care Needs Assessment to determine the type and amount of support required.

• Range of Services: Support covers daily tasks such as personal hygiene, dressing, mobility, meal preparation, and medication reminders.

• Free but Limited: The HSE-funded portion of the service is free, but limited funding means it does not provide 24/7 care and may involve waiting lists.

• Complementary Options: Many families combine the HSE service with private home care to ensure full-time support or fill gaps in care.

The Home Support Service: The Modern 'Home Care Package'

What was once known as the 'Home Care Package' in Ireland is today officially called the HSE Home Support Service. This program is designed to help older people continue living independently and safely in their own homes for as long as possible. The service provides practical support with everyday tasks that may have become more difficult with age, illness, or disability. The assistance is tailored to the individual's needs, following a comprehensive assessment by a health professional.

Eligibility for Home Support in Ireland

To be eligible for the Home Support Service, applicants generally must be 65 years of age or older and require support to either continue living at home or to return home following a hospital stay. The eligibility criteria are not based on income but on a care needs assessment conducted by the Health Service Executive (HSE).

Key considerations for eligibility include:

• The individual's ability to perform daily living activities, such as personal hygiene, mobility, and meal preparation.
• Their medical, health, and social circumstances.
• The level of informal support already available, such as from family or community networks.

While the service is primarily for those over 65, exceptions can be made for younger individuals with specific needs, such as early-onset dementia. A clear and evidenced need for support, often following a significant illness or hospital stay, is a primary driver for a successful application.

The Application and Assessment Process

The process for applying for the HSE Home Support Service is straightforward and begins with an application form. The steps are as follows:

1. Obtain the application form: Forms are available from the local HSE Home Support Office, online via the HSE website, or from a healthcare professional like a public health nurse or GP.
2. Complete the form: The applicant or a nominated decision supporter can fill out the form. Assistance is available from local HSE offices.
3. Submit the application: The completed form should be sent to the local HSE Home Support Office.
4. Care Needs Assessment: Once received, the HSE will arrange for a health professional (e.g., a Public Health Nurse) to conduct a formal Care Needs Assessment. This assessment can take place in the person's home, hospital, or another care setting.
5. HSE Review and Decision: The HSE reviews the assessment and makes a decision based on the person's needs and the availability of resources. The applicant is then informed in writing of the outcome.

If the application is successful, the HSE will organize the care either directly through its own staff or via an approved external provider. An alternative option called Consumer Directed Home Support (CDHS) may be available in some areas, allowing the person to deal directly with their chosen care company from an HSE-approved list.

Services and Supports Provided

The Home Support Service offers a range of supports to assist with the activities of daily living. The specific services are determined by the Care Needs Assessment but can include:

• Personal Care: Assistance with showering, bathing, shaving, dressing, and using the toilet.
• Mobility Support: Help with getting in and out of bed and moving around the home.
• Meal Preparation: Support with preparing meals and helping with feeding.
• Medication Management: Reminders to take medication at the correct times.
• Domestic Home Help: Assistance with light housekeeping tasks.
• Companionship: Providing social and emotional support.

It is important to note that the Home Support Service is not designed to provide 24-hour care. For those with complex, continuous needs, a combination of HSE support and private care may be necessary.

Comparison: HSE Home Support vs. Private Care vs. Nursing Home

Deciding on the best care option involves weighing several factors, including the level of need, cost, and desire for independence. Here is a comparison of the main options available for older people in Ireland.

Feature	HSE Home Support (Formerly 'Home Care Package')	Private Home Care	Nursing Home
Cost	Free for HSE-funded hours; not means-tested.	Varies significantly (e.g., €20-€35+ per hour).	High cost, but subsidised via the Fair Deal Scheme.
Care Level	Generally for basic to moderate needs; not 24/7 care.	Can provide tailored services from basic to complex, including 24-hour care.	Comprehensive 24/7 medical and personal care.
Location	In the comfort of the person's own home.	In the person's own home or with family.	Residential facility away from home.
Control	Subject to HSE assessment and allocation of hours.	High level of control over care provider, hours, and specific services.	Facility dictates care schedule and routines.
Availability	Can involve waiting lists and resource limitations.	Can be arranged quickly and flexibly through private providers.	Wait times and availability can vary.

Navigating the Future of Home Care

For many families, keeping a loved one at home is the preferred option. The HSE Home Support Service offers a vital, state-funded foundation for this, providing crucial care for those who meet the eligibility criteria. However, it is essential to understand the limitations, including the level of care provided and the potential for wait times. This is why many families choose to supplement HSE services with private care to bridge gaps or provide more intensive support.

For additional support and guidance on navigating the Irish healthcare system, the official Citizens Information website is an excellent resource, with detailed pages on health and social services for older people.

When considering care options, a holistic approach is best. Assess the individual's specific needs, explore both state-funded and private options, and consider financial implications, including potential tax relief on private care costs. The goal is to create a comprehensive, personalised care plan that supports a high quality of life for your loved one in a familiar and comforting environment.

Conclusion

The 'home care package' in Ireland is now known as the Home Support Service, a free and critical HSE-provided program for older people. While it provides indispensable support based on need, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Families often need to combine it with private care or consider residential options for more complex needs. Understanding the application process, eligibility requirements, and the full spectrum of available services is key to securing the best possible care for your elderly family member.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Home Support Service?

The Home Support Service is the modern term for what was previously called the 'home care package' for the elderly in Ireland. It is a free service provided by the Health Service Executive (HSE) to help older people with everyday tasks so they can continue to live at home.

Is the Home Support Service means-tested?

No, the Home Support Service is not means-tested. Eligibility is based on a care needs assessment conducted by a health professional, not on the applicant's income or assets.

How do I apply for a home care package in Ireland?

You can apply for the Home Support Service by completing an application form and sending it to your local HSE Home Support Office. The form can be downloaded from the HSE website or obtained from a healthcare professional.

What kind of tasks does the service cover?

The service typically covers personal care such as bathing and dressing, assistance with mobility, help with meal preparation, medication reminders, and some light domestic tasks. The specific services depend on the individual's assessed needs.

What happens after I apply for home care?

After your application is submitted, the HSE will arrange a Care Needs Assessment. A health professional will visit to evaluate your needs. The HSE then reviews this assessment and informs you of their decision in writing.

What is the difference between HSE Home Support and private home care?

HSE Home Support is a free, publicly funded service with limited hours, based on assessed need. Private home care is paid for directly by the family or individual, offering more flexible scheduling and potentially a wider range of services, including 24/7 care if needed.

Can a person with early-onset dementia get home support?

Yes. While the service is primarily for those over 65, exceptions can be made for people under 65 who require support due to illness or disability, such as early-onset dementia.