28 Years of Compassion: Reflecting on RHS Home Care’s Journey and Honoring our Dedicated Staff

For nearly three decades, RHS Home Care has been a pillar of support and compassion in our community. This year, we proudly celebrated 28 years of dedicated service, an incredible journey that has seen us grow and thrive while consistently delivering top-quality care to those in need.

To mark this significant milestone, we hosted a special event at The Abbey Hotel in Roscommon. It was a day filled with reflection, joy, and gratitude as we honoured the journey of RHS Home Care and recognised the unwavering commitment of our long-serving staff members.

A Special Afternoon at The Abbey Hotel

The Abbey Hotel provided the perfect setting for our celebration. The elegant venue was beautifully decorated, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for our guests. Attendees had the opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, share stories, and reminisce about the many memorable moments over the years.

Honouring Our Long-Serving Staff

One of the highlights of the evening was the awards ceremony, where we honoured our long-serving staff members. Their dedication and hard work have been the backbone of RHS Home Care’s success. We recognised their contributions with special awards, acknowledging their invaluable role in our mission to provide exceptional care.

A Look Back at Our Journey

A presentation showcasing our journey over the past 28 years was a poignant reminder of how far we’ve come. The presentation highlights the milestones and achievements that have defined RHS Home Care. It was a tribute to everyone who has been part of our story – from our dedicated staff to the families and individuals we’ve had the privilege to serve.

 

Looking Forward

While the evening was a time to look back and celebrate, it was also an opportunity to look forward to the future. We are committed to continuing our mission of providing high-quality home care services, adapting to the evolving needs of our community, and maintaining the standards of excellence that have become synonymous with RHS Home Care.

We are particularly excited about our recent expansion into Counties Sligo, Leitrim, and Donegal. This expansion represents a significant step forward in our journey, allowing us to bring our compassionate and professional care services to even more individuals and families. We look forward to building strong relationships in these new areas and continuing to make a positive impact in the lives of those we serve.

Thank You

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended the event and to those who have supported us over the years. Your trust and support have been instrumental in our success. Here’s to many more years of service, growth, and making a positive impact in the lives of those we care for.

Our 28th anniversary celebration was not just a milestone; it was a testament to the dedication, compassion, and hard work that defines RHS Home Care. We look forward to continuing this journey with our incredible team and the wonderful community we serve.

 

 

A Guide to Carer’s Benefit, Carer’s Allowance and the Carer’s Support Grant

Caring for a loved one can be both rewarding and challenging. However, it often involves significant sacrifices, including financial ones. Fortunately, the Department of Social Protection offers various supports to alleviate some of the burdens faced by carers. Among these are Carer’s Allowance, Carer’s Benefit, and the Carer’s Support Grant.

Carer’s Benefit:

Carer’s Benefit provides short-term financial assistance to individuals who leave employment to provide full-time care to someone in need. This payment can be received for up to 24 months and can be taken in separate periods. Additional payments are available for those caring for multiple individuals.

Eligibility for Carer’s Benefit:

To qualify for Carer’s Benefit, certain criteria must be met:

  • You must be 16 or over.
  • You need to have sufficient social insurance (PRSI) contributions and have been employed for at least 8 weeks in the previous 26 weeks.
  • The person you’re caring for must require full-time care and not reside in a hospital or similar institution.
  • You should not be employed, self-employed, or engaged in other activities for more than 18.5 hours a week.

Carer’s Allowance:

Carer’s Allowance is a weekly payment for individuals providing full-time care to someone requiring support due to age, disability, or illness. Applicants must pass a means test and meet residency and caregiving requirements. Half-rate allowances are available for those receiving other social welfare payments.

Qualification Criteria:

To be entitled to Carer’s Allowance you must:

  • Be 18 or over.
  • Pass a means test.
  • Provide full-time care to a person who is not living in a hospital, convalescent home, or similar institution.
  • Not be employed, self-employed, do voluntary work, training, or any education courses for more than 18.5 hours a week.
  • Be habitually resident in the State.

What is Full-Time Care?

A person is seen as needing full-time care when:

  • They need continual supervision to avoid danger to themselves.
  • They need continual supervision and frequent assistance throughout the day with normal bodily functions.
  • They are likely to require full-time care and attention for at least 12 months.
  • The time spent providing care must not be less than 35 hours per week, over 5-7 days.

The Department of Social Protection (DSP) will decide if you are providing full-time care.

Carer’s Support Grant: Formerly known as the respite grant, the Carer’s Support Grant is automatically paid to Carer’s Allowance recipients in June each year.

For more detailed information on carer’s supports, eligibility criteria, and application processes, you can visit the official Citizens Information website at Citizens Information. There, you’ll find comprehensive resources and guidance to help you navigate the various assistance programs available to carers.

Falls Prevention Hints and Tips

As we age, our risk of falling increases due to various factors such as changes in balance, vision impairment, and other health issues. However, the good news is that many falls can be prevented, and there are several steps we can take to reduce our risk. In this post, we’ll explore some simple yet effective tips and advice to help you stay safe and prevent falls.

Trip Hazards

One of the first areas to address in falls prevention is eliminating trip hazards around the home. Here are some steps you can take:

  • Secure Rugs and Mats: Take up loose rugs and mats or secure them with slip-resistant backing to prevent slipping accidents.
  • Reduce Clutter: Keep your living space tidy and organized to minimize the risk of tripping over objects.
  • Secure Cables and Wires: Ensure that cables and wires from electronics are safely secured to avoid tripping hazards.
  • Adequate Lighting: Make sure that hallways, stairways, and outdoor walkways are well-lit to improve visibility and reduce the risk of falls, especially in low-light conditions.
  • Trim Bushes and Shrubs: Keep outdoor paths clear by trimming bushes and shrubs to prevent obstacles in your path.

If you need further advice on making your home safer, don’t hesitate to ask your GP to refer you to an Occupational Therapist.

Bathroom Safety

The bathroom can be a particularly hazardous area due to wet surfaces. Here’s how you can enhance safety:

  • Install Grab Rails: Place grab rails in the shower, bath, or near the toilet to provide extra support when needed.
  • Non-Slip Mats: Use non-slip mats in the shower, bath, and on bathroom floors to prevent slipping accidents.
Around Your Home

There are several additional measures you can take to make your home safer:

  • Place Items at Waist Level: Store everyday items at waist level to avoid reaching or bending over excessively.
  • Night Lights: Install night lights in hallways and landings to improve visibility during nighttime trips to the bathroom.
  • Handrails: Install handrails in areas where you need extra support, such as staircases and hallways.
  • Repair Flooring: Repair loose carpet and uneven flooring to prevent tripping hazards.
Stairs

Stairs pose a significant risk for falls. Consider the following precautions:

  • Second Bannister Rail: Install a second bannister rail on stairs for added stability and support.
Health

Maintaining good health is essential for falls prevention:

  • Medication Review: Regularly review your medications with your doctor to ensure they don’t contribute to dizziness or balance issues.
  • Bone Health: Discuss your bone health with your GP, especially if you’re at risk of osteoporosis or fractures.
  • Regular Checkups: Have your eyesight and hearing checked regularly, as impaired senses can increase the risk of falls.
  • Stay Active: Keep up with regular exercise to maintain strength and balance.
Useful Everyday Tips

Here are some additional everyday tips to help prevent falls:

  • Watch Your Step: Be cautious of uneven ground, especially when outdoors.
  • Use Walking Aids: If recommended by your healthcare provider, make sure to use any prescribed walking aids.
  • Proper Footwear: Wear flat shoes with rubber soles for better traction and stability.
  • Wearable Alarms: If you have a wearable alarm, wear it at all times to quickly call for help in case of a fall.
  • Well-Fitting Clothes: Avoid wearing clothing that may trip you up, such as trailing trousers or belts.
  • Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contact numbers near your phone for quick access.
  • Take Your Time: Avoid rushing and take your time when moving around to reduce the risk of slips and falls.

By implementing these simple tips and making your environment safer, you can significantly reduce your risk of falls and maintain your independence as you age.

Nutrition & Hydration Week – Malnutrition in Older Adults

Malnutrition among older adults poses significant health risks and challenges. Recent studies, including one from 2020, revealed that over a third of elderly individuals admitted to hospitals were either malnourished or at risk. It’s crucial to recognise the signs, understand the causes, and take proactive steps to prevent malnutrition, ensuring the health and well-being of our elderly loved ones.

Understanding Malnutrition:

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), malnutrition encompasses deficiencies, excesses, or imbalances in a person’s intake of energy and/or nutrients. This includes both undernutrition and overweight, obesity, and diet-related non-communicable diseases.

Signs of Malnutrition:

Identifying signs of malnutrition is crucial. These include unintentional weight loss, chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, decreased appetite or loss of interest in food, cognitive impairment, slow healing from injuries or illnesses, increased susceptibility to infections, changes in mood or behaviour, skin, hair, or dental problems, swelling in the legs, fragile bones, and heightened risk of fractures, as well as mobility issues.

Causes of Malnutrition:

Several factors contribute to malnutrition among the elderly, including limited financial resources for purchasing nutritious foods, chronic illnesses or digestive disorders affecting nutrient absorption, medication side effects suppressing appetite, dental problems, or mobility limitations hindering eating, social isolation leading to decreased food intake, and age-related changes in metabolism and nutrient requirements.

elderly man eating dinner

Preventive Measures:

Preventing malnutrition requires a proactive approach from caregivers. Here are some key preventive measures:

Nutrition-Based Preventive Measures:

  • Meal Planning: Designate and prepare well-balanced meals in advance to promote healthier eating habits.
  • Medication Consideration: Be vigilant of medication side effects that may affect appetite and consult healthcare professionals for adjustments if necessary.
  • Social Engagement: Encourage social interactions during mealtimes to enhance enjoyment and stimulate appetite.
  • Healthy Snacking: Incorporate nutrient-rich snacks into daily routines to provide additional nourishment, especially for those with reduced appetites.

Other Supportive Measures:

  • Regular Monitoring: Keep track of the older adult’s weight, appetite, and overall health regularly to identify any changes or concerns.
  • Encouragement and Support: Provide positive reinforcement and encouragement during meals to motivate older adults to eat and enjoy their food.
  • Variety in Meals: Offer a diverse range of foods to ensure a balanced diet and prevent mealtime boredom.
  • Assistance with Eating: Offer assistance with meal preparation, serving, and feeding if needed, especially for individuals with physical limitations or cognitive impairments.
  • Educational Resources: Seek out educational resources or nutrition programs for caregivers to enhance their knowledge and skills in proper nutrition and meal planning for older adults.
  • Regular Exercise: Encourage regular physical activity to stimulate appetite and promote overall health and well-being.

Seeking Professional Support:

Seeking professional guidance is vital for addressing malnutrition effectively. Healthcare professionals can offer tailored dietary advice, recommend supplements, and provide counselling for underlying mental health issues contributing to malnutrition.

By raising awareness, understanding the signs, and implementing preventive measures, caregivers can significantly contribute to combating malnutrition among the elderly. Prioritising nutrition and overall well-being ensures that our elderly loved ones lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. If you or someone you know is experiencing malnutrition-related issues, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from healthcare professionals for appropriate support and intervention.

Nutrition and Hydration Week: Easy Ways to Drink More Water

As we celebrate Nutrition and Hydration Week, it’s a good time to talk about something really important: drinking enough water. Water is super important for our bodies, but lots of us find it hard to drink as much as we should. Let’s chat about why drinking water is so important and find some fun ways to drink more of it, including tasty recipes for flavoured water.

Why Drinking Water Matters

Water is like the fuel that keeps our bodies running smoothly. It helps our body do lots of important things, like keeping us cool, moving around nutrients, and getting rid of waste. When we don’t drink enough water, we can feel tired, get headaches, find it hard to concentrate, and even have bigger health problems in the long run.

Tips for Drinking More Water

  1. Set Reminders: Sometimes, we forget to drink water during our busy days. Set reminders on your phone or computer to remind you to take regular sips of water.
  2. Carry a Water Bottle: Keep a refillable water bottle with you wherever you go. It makes it much easier to drink water when you have it with you all the time.
  3. Add Some Flavour: If plain water doesn’t excite you, try adding some flavour! You can add slices of fruit or some herbs to your water to make it taste better.
  4. Keep Track: Try keeping track of how much water you drink each day in a journal or on your phone. It’s easier to drink more water when you can see how much you’ve already had.
  5. Eat Water-Rich Foods: Snack on foods that have lots of water in them, like cucumber, watermelon, strawberries, and lettuce. They help keep you hydrated and give you extra vitamins and minerals.

Tasty Flavoured Water Recipes

  1. Citrus Splash: Pop some slices of lemon, lime, and orange into a jug of water. Leave it in the fridge for a while to let the flavours mix together. It’s like a zesty party for your taste buds!
  2. Cucumber Mint Cooler: Put some slices of cucumber and a few mint leaves in a pitcher of water. Stick it in the fridge for an hour or so before drinking. It’s super refreshing, especially on a hot day.
  3. Berry Blast: Mix up some strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries in a jug of water. Let it sit in the fridge for a bit to get all juicy and delicious. It’s like drinking a fruity rainbow!
  4. Tropical Treat: Chuck in some pineapple and mango chunks into your water, along with a splash of coconut water. Leave it in the fridge overnight for a taste of the tropics in your own home.
  5. Herbal Harmony: Drop some rosemary sprigs, thyme, and a squeeze of lemon into a jug of water. Let it hang out for a couple of hours before serving. It’s like a spa day for your taste buds!

two glasses of water with lemon and lime in it perfect for hydration

By making hydration a priority and trying out these simple tricks, you can make sure you’re getting enough water every day. Whether you like plain water, flavoured water, or water-rich foods, staying hydrated is a small but important step towards feeling your best.

Happy Nutrition and Hydration Week!

Nutrition and Hydration Week 2024 – Join our Nutrition and Hydration Challenge

Today marks the beginning of Nutrition and Hydration Week, and we at RHS Home Care are excited to be part of the global effort to highlight the importance of healthy eating and staying hydrated. This week presents an opportunity for us to emphasise our commitment to supporting the well-being of our clients and community.

Nutrition and Hydration Week serves as a poignant reminder of the indispensable role that balanced nutrition and proper hydration play in maintaining overall health and vitality. Particularly for older adults, prioritising these factors is crucial for enhancing their well-being and quality of life.

Throughout the week, we’ll be sharing valuable tips and information on our website and social media platforms. We believe that by increasing awareness about health, individuals can make informed decisions for themselves.

To kick off Nutrition and Hydration Week, we’re launching a simple challenge that anyone can join in with. These tasks are designed not only to assist during this week but also to encourage good habits for the long term. (Click/tap the image for a downloadable and  printable version.)

nutrition and hydration challenge sheet

By taking on these simple tasks, you can improve your health and well-being now and in the future. We encourage you to join us on this journey and share your experiences.

Let’s make Nutrition and Hydration Week a time to focus on our health and make positive changes together. Keep an eye on our social media for daily updates and tips.

PRESS RELEASE – 11th January – 490 Job Vacancies and Expansion into Leitrim and Sligo

PRESS RELEASE

 

RHS Home Care Announces 490 Job Vacancies and Expansion into Leitrim and Sligo

RHS Home Care, a well-established not-for-profit cooperative providing home support services in the West of Ireland since 1996, is thrilled to announce an expansion into counties Leitrim and Sligo. The move comes in response to an unprecedented surge in demand for its services, prompting the creation of 490 immediate job vacancies.

Recruitment Drive Across Five Counties

RHS Home Care has been a pillar of support in Roscommon, Galway, and Mayo for 28 years, embodying a home-first approach to care. General Manager Patrick Towey stated :

“We are thrilled to be adding 490 new roles to continue providing the highest standards of care to vulnerable individuals, supporting them to remain at home. Home is proven to be the best and safest place for someone to remain, provided the correct supports are in place. Our recruitment drive for community-based care assistants will be completed throughout Roscommon, Mayo, Galway, Sligo, and Leitrim over the course of 2024.”

The company is actively seeking candidates for 100 positions in Roscommon, 120 in Galway, 120 in Mayo, and a combined 150 in the newly expanded counties of Leitrim and Sligo. Mr. Towey reflected on RHS Home Care’s growth, “When RHS Home Care was established in 1996 it was not envisaged that the project would grow to employ nearly 400 people. Initially, the Cooperative trained 30 people through start-up funding.”

28 Years of Growth and Community Impact

RHS Home Care currently serves almost 1000 clients across three counties, distinguishing itself as the only home care cooperative of its kind in Ireland. Mr. Towey highlighted the cooperative’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing the client’s well-being over financial gain, setting RHS Home Care apart from commercial home care companies.

“The priority of RHS Home Care is the client. Since the beginning, it has always been about quality care and not financial gain – that is what sets RHS Home Care apart from commercial home care companies. Over the last 28 years of providing care and compassion in the community we know we offer the best model of home support services – second to none. We enable people to maintain their independence in the comfort of their own homes within their communities”

Opportunities to Make a Difference

Prospective applicants interested in joining RHS Home Care’s mission to provide quality care and compassion to the community can find more information on job vacancies at www.rhshomecare.ie or by contacting jobs@rhshomecare.ie.

About RHS Home Care:

RHS Home Care, established in 1996, is a not-for-profit cooperative providing home support services in the Midlands, West and North West of Ireland. With a focus on quality care and community wellbeing, RHS Home Care has expanded its services to include counties Roscommon, Galway, Mayo, Leitrim, and Sligo. For more information, visit www.rhshomecare.ie.

 

Patrick Towey                                 Veronica Barrett

General Manager                           Director of Services

Unlock Extra Earnings and Join the Team at RHS Home Care

At RHS Home Care, we go beyond being a care provider – we’re a family. As Ireland’s exclusive not-for-profit home care cooperative, we prioritise fair compensation for our dedicated carers, making us stand out in the West of Ireland. We believe that your hard work deserves recognition, and that’s why we proudly offer the highest rates of paid mileage and travel time.

Your Dedication Pays Off:

🚗 Mileage Pays Off: We understand that every mile you travel is important. That’s why we not only appreciate it but also compensate for it. We pay mileage for care calls, ensuring that your commitment to exceptional care is rewarded.

🏞️ Travel Time: Your time is valuable, and we respect that. RHS Home Care is proud to offer the highest hourly rates for travel time. This not only acknowledges the time you invest but also provides an opportunity to boost your earnings.

Real-Life Extra Earnings:

Here are some inspiring examples of the real-life extra earnings from our dedicated carers last month:

In Mayo:

  • Carer 1 received €432 in Mileage + €614 in Travel Time = Total €1,046 additional pay on top of total pay.
  • Carers 2 received €214 in Mileage + €272 in Travel Time = Total €486 additional pay on top of total pay.

In Roscommon:

  • Carer 1 received €226 in Mileage + €271 in Travel Time = Total €497 additional pay on top of total pay.
  • Carers 2 received €207 in Mileage + €248 in Travel Time = Total €455 additional pay on top of total pay.

In Galway:

  • Carer 1 received €401 in Mileage + €584 in Travel Time = Total €985 additional pay on top of total pay.
  • Carer 2 received €280 in Mileage + €274 in Travel Time = Total €554 additional pay on top of total pay.

Your Dedication, Your Reward:

We take immense pride in our carers and the exceptional care they provide to our community. Your dedication not only makes a difference but also puts extra money in your pocket!

Ready to earn more while doing what you love? Join RHS Home Care today and become a valued part of our caring family.

Discover the rewarding opportunities that await you by contacting us at 0906 625988 or via email at jobs@rhshomecare.ie. Your journey to a fulfilling career starts here!

Apply Here!
RECRUITMENT OPEN DAYS IN DONEGAL

Join us at RHS Home Care, a not-for-profit Home Care Cooperative with a rich history of providing quality-driven home care services since 1996. We are excited to share the news of our expansion into Donegal and invite you to be part of our growing family by participating in our upcoming recruitment drive.

Open Recruitment Days:

Tuesday, 3rd October

  • Mill Park Hotel, Donegal Town

Wednesday, 4th October

  • Jackson’s Hotel, Ballybofey

Thursday, 5th October

  • Lake of Shadows Hotel, Buncrana

All venues will be open from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, and walk-ins are more than welcome! This is your chance to meet us in person and explore the fulfilling career opportunities that await you at RHS Home Care.

At RHS Home Care, we are on the lookout for compassionate carers who are dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others. By joining our team, you become part of a cooperative that deeply values your skills and expertise.

What We Offer:

  • Competitive Compensation: We believe in recognizing the hard work and dedication of our carers. That’s why we’ve increased our carer pay rates from July 1st, 2023, ensuring that your commitment is duly rewarded.
  • Flexible Work Schedules
  • Unlimited Paid Mileage and Travel Time to Each Call
  • Professional Development Opportunities
  • Support from an Area Supervisor and 24/7 OnCall Out-of-Hours Support
  • Exciting Staff Offers and Discounts

Your dedication deserves more than just a job; it deserves a fulfilling career with RHS Home Care. If you’re ready to embark on a journey that not only recognises your efforts but also provides a supportive and enriching environment, join us!

For more details and to express your interest, contact us at 0906 625988 or via email at jobs@rhshomecare.ie.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a team that cares, values, and supports your professional growth. Your journey to a meaningful career starts with RHS Home Care!

100 Care Assistant Vacancies in County Roscommon

As part of our recruitment drive, we are actively seeking 100 Care Assistants to fill positions in the Roscommon area.

RHS Home Care is an Irish-owned Not-for-Profit Co-operative that has been delivering high-quality community-based home care services in Roscommon, Galway, and Mayo since 1996. We are now expanding to Donegal, Sligo, and Leitrim and are in search of Care Assistants across County Roscommon to join our dedicated team of carers.

Our Benefits:

  • Competitive pay and premium pay for Sundays and Bank Holidays. Increased pay rates from July 2023.
  • A flexible working schedule to suit your availability
  • Unlimited paid mileage and travel time to each call, offering the highest rate in the West of Ireland :

Example of 2 Roscommon Carers Additional Pay Last Month

Carer 1
€226 euro in Mileage + €271 in Travel Time =
Total €497 additional pay on top of wages

Carer 2
€207 euro in Mileage + €248 in Travel Time
Total €455 additional pay on top of total pay

  • Career progression opportunities
  • Up to €250 Refer-A-Friend Scheme
  • Uniform and full PPE are provided.
  • On-call Support – 24/7 support from our on-call team.
  • Cycle to work initiative.
  • Employee Health Cash Plan (HSF Ireland)
  • Employee discounts including tyre and car service offers plus much more

                 

At RHS Home Care, we are committed to creating a supportive and rewarding environment for both our carers and clients. Join us in our mission to provide exceptional care and make a difference in the lives of those we serve.

Key Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Provide compassionate care and assistance with daily living activities to those in our community who require it most
  • Assist with personal care tasks such as bathing, dressing and light housekeeping duties including changing bed linen and laundry
  • Safeguard the well-being of our clients
  • Support social interactions and activities to combat loneliness and isolation in the community

Requirements to work as a Care Assistant:

  • QQI/FETAC Level 5 Care Skills & Care of the Older Person or equivalent qualification
  • Reliable, trustworthy, caring, and kind
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
  • Ability to provide 2 references

Apply now and become a part of our growing RHS Home Care family!

Ways to apply:
  • Complete the form below
  • Email your cover letter and Curriculum Vitae to jobs@rhshomecare.ie
  • Call our office on 090 662 5988

Join our team today and make a positive impact on the lives of those in our community who need it most.

Apply Here!