@Ewokfett Hello from me. Can only agree with the other posters, please apply for Attendance Allowance. Maybe ask Age UK for help filling in the form? It is also a great idea to let his Surgery know that you are his Carer. I have to say my husband’s Surgery are generally very good and I have said it if is just making an appointment I will happily deal with it, but if there is discussion involved then I have to ask him to speak to them. I am at a different Surgery. Agree that the OT may not be aware of the benefit system. I would personally not be afraid to ask for help filling hte form in. If you and your father have paid tax into the system for many years, then yes, AA is something that should be claimed. It may well enable your father to put the CH on for longer periods and/or take taxis to appointments. This is what I use my husband’s for.
In your initial post you said “mum is home with dad all day”.
Mum needs to see that she too is now a carer.
I’m now 73, I’ve been caring for almost 50 years, widowed suddenly at 58.
One of the most annoying things about being older is the fact that I get tired much quicker.
Mum needs time to go out by herself to do things that help her relax and please her.
It’s very important too that she keeps up membership of a women’s group so that when dad dies she has a support network to fall back on.
Thank you for the advice, I have already informed our GP surgery (we use the same Surgery/GP) that I am my dad’s carer & they have been very supportive so far.
Hi, thank you for your comments - my mum knows that she is his carer too but in a limited capacity as she has a disability herself, so she can only do certain things which is one of the reasons why I have stepped up to the plate. Unfortunately she doesn’t really get to go out by herself because of her disability but she still does lots of things that she wants to do though.
You’re doing a solid job already. Keeping track of appointments and meds gives him real stability. It helps to note any patterns around the falls, things like time of day or after certain activities, because doctors often use that info. Small home tweaks like better lighting or removing loose rugs can also make walking safer.
Thank you for your comment, having me keeping track of his appointments & medication is a load of his mind - so he doesn’t need to worry about them. We have made a few adjustments around the house to make it easier for him to get around & more safely. We are currently waiting for the grip bars to be installed in the toilet & outside the front door which will make it easier for him.
Dear @Ewokfett
Welcome
You love your dad v much,
Yes, every one here has tons of good advice and cheerleading,
Roll call is great company for the tough and the good times, join us on roll call if you want to at anytime,
Warmest wishes Ula