So, it now seems I'm not going to have to do this. I visited my Dad in hospital this morning, and managed to catch one of the home care team, and we sat down for a good chat. It seems they can provide up to 4 home visits a day to look after whatever needs he has. They take into account that he will have good days, when he'll be a bit more active, and bad days, when he can do almost nothing for himself. As usual, he was very resistant towards it at first, until they managed to get through to him that he can use them as much or as little as he needs - even now in his current state, he wants to be as independent as possible, which I fully understand as it's a trait I seem to have inherited. He will get this care from the moment he comes home from hospital.
A colleague at work had suggested to me that we might get this. Apparently, the level of care available is very much dependent on the particular health authority you come under - it seems we are covered by one of the best in West Oxfordshire
So, I will be staying in my job (once again, very mixed feelings :lol) and can relax a bit about him when I'm at work. I am VERY much relieved! Caring for an elderly parent was a prospect, I have to admit, I found very daunting as it began to dawn on me just what exactly it would involve. Don't get me wrong, if that'd been our only option, then I would do it without any hesitation, but it really is a relief when you know you will have qualified people helping you out. It took some persuasion to convince my Dad that it wasn't scrounging, but was what he is entitled to, and is the reason the service exists.
To david095 - yes, my brother and I arranged for joint Lasting Power of Attorney over his affairs a few months ago.
So, I'd like to thank everybody on here who gave advice or just kind words - it has meant a lot to me in a very difficult time, when I've not really had anyone else to turn to.
THANK YOU!
