Planning for care often feels like a distant concern. It’s something we push to the back of our minds, thinking it’s something we don’t need to worry about yet. However, the reality is that none of us can predict when a crisis might occur. One moment everything is fine, and the next, a fall, an illness, or a hospital discharge suddenly requires us to step in and make important decisions for our loved ones. At that moment, it becomes clear: we don't really know what their wishes are.

Do you know how your loved ones want to be cared for? Would they prefer to stay at home or move into a care home? What would they decide if they had the capacity to do so? These are difficult questions that many of us never think to ask until we are forced into a situation where we need to make those decisions on their behalf. It becomes a guessing game, and even with the best intentions, it can be challenging to know exactly what they would want.

I have seen countless families face conflict during these times. One sibling may believe their parent would want to stay at home, while another insists that a care home would be the best option. This can create tension and confusion at a time when the family should be united in their care for their loved one. It’s a struggle to find common ground, and sometimes, the emotional burden becomes too much.

As a Live-In Care provider, my role is to offer care and support not only to the clients but also to their families. In my experience, preparation is key. The truth is, there will come a time when most of us will need care. It’s important to have these discussions early, to avoid the stress and uncertainty when the time comes. And, most importantly, have it written down. Knowing exactly what your loved one wants can eliminate the guesswork, ensuring that the decisions made align with their values and preferences.

For example, I know for myself that I would like to be cared for at home. My home is where my memories are, where I feel safe, and where I have the comfort of my surroundings. Having a Live-In Carer would allow me to maintain my independence while ensuring I have the help I need. The key is to have a caregiver who can blend into my routine, but also respect my need for space when necessary.

Here are my top 10 tips for advance care planning:

Speak to a wealth management company: It’s important to have a financial plan in place for potential care costs. Setting aside money for future care can alleviate a lot of stress when the time comes to make decisions.

Have a clear idea of what type of care you want: Whether it’s care at home, a residential care home, or even hospice care, it’s essential to know what kind of care aligns with your or your loved one’s values and preferences.

Designate a health care proxy or power of attorney: Choose someone you trust to make medical and care decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. This ensures that your wishes are honored.

Document your wishes: Whether it’s a living will, an advance directive, or a letter to your family, make sure your care preferences are clearly outlined. This document will serve as a guide for your family and caregivers.

Consider long-term care insurance: This type of insurance can help cover the costs of care, giving you more options when planning for your future.

Review your plans regularly: Your preferences may change over time, so it’s important to revisit your advance care plan periodically. Life circumstances, health, and even financial situations can shift, so it’s crucial to stay updated.

Have a conversation with your loved ones: It’s not easy, but having an open and honest conversation about your care preferences can reduce confusion and tension when decisions need to be made.

Be realistic about your needs: Think about what kind of help you’ll need. Do you need full-time care, or would part-time assistance suffice? Understanding your future needs can help you choose the right care options.

Choose a trusted care provider: Research and choose a care provider who aligns with your values. Live-in care is an excellent option for many, as it allows you to stay in the comfort of your home while receiving the support you need.

Include your care preferences in your will: Ensure that your wishes are legally documented in your will, so that your family and caregivers are aware of your desires in the event of an emergency.

Advance care planning is not just about making arrangements for the inevitable; it’s about ensuring peace of mind for you and your family. It’s about ensuring that your wishes are respected, that your loved ones are prepared, and that they are not left making decisions without guidance.

Take the time now to plan ahead—it’s a conversation that will give you the clarity and security you need for the future.

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The Benefits of Organic Food for Gut Health

Are you wondering whether organic food can improve your gut health? In this blog, we explore the possible connections between organic foods and a healthy digestive system. We’ll look at how organic farming practices, reduced chemical exposure, and nutrient content may impact your gut microbiome. With research-backed insights, the blog provides a balanced view of both organic and conventional foods, helping you make informed choices for your gut health.

What is Organic Food and How Is It Regulated?

Understand what makes organic food different and learn about the regulatory bodies in the UK that oversee organic farming standards.

How Does Pesticide Exposure Affect Gut Health?

Discover the potential impact of pesticide residues on gut health and explore whether organic foods might help reduce exposure to synthetic chemicals.

Nutritional Benefits of Organic Foods for Gut Health

Learn how antioxidants, including those in organic foods, could support your gut microbiome and aid digestion.

The Role of Sustainable Farming Practices in Gut Health

Find out how organic and conventional farming practices impact soil health, biodiversity, and their downstream effects on your gut microbiome.

What you’ll learn:

- The potential impact of pesticide residues on gut health and if organic foods offer a lower-exposure option.
- The role of antioxidants in organic and conventional foods in supporting a healthy gut microbiome.
- How sustainable farming practices in both organic and conventional systems may influence gut health and overall well-being.

Want to know more?
🔗 Click here to read the full blog post.

Want to take control and start your journey to better gut health?
👉 Book a FREE discovery call with me today
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Key Differences Between IBS and IBD: Understanding and Managing Both

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) might share symptoms like abdominal pain and bloating, but they are fundamentally different conditions with unique causes and treatment methods.

Discover Personalised Gut Health Care

Hello and a warm welcome to Anni Summers RD. I’m thrilled to have this opportunity to share a bit about me and the passion that drives me as a specialist Gut Health Dietitian.

My Journey to Becoming a Gut Health Dietitian

A Lifelong Interest in Food

I have been interested in food and cooking since I was a young child when, at 4 years old, I got up early one morning and decided to “bake a cake”. After mixing together flour and sugar and putting it in the oven, my Mum woke just in time to intervene before I had the chance to turn on the oven! As a teenager, I enjoyed experimenting in the kitchen, and often made dinner for my parents, introducing them to “new” cuisines, such as Thai and Japanese. Many of my present-day social activities are culinary orientated, such as dining out (I love seeking out unique and unusual dining experiences in London) and hosting dinner parties for friends. And, of course, Mum and Dad still come round once a week for dinner.

From Passion to Profession: Embracing Dietetics

In 2007, my passion for nutrition and the interplay between food, health and disease grew, stemming from a close family member being diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, as well as my own diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (finally, I could make sense of the abdominal pain, bloating and wind I’d been experiencing since my early teens!). This personal connection to gastrointestinal health led me to a career switch and, in 2011, I began training to be a Registered Dietitian.

My Experience as a Gut Health Dietitian

Excelling in Nutrition and Dietetics

Jump to 2016, I had successfully earned my first-class degree in Nutrition and Dietetics, graduating top of my year. I had gained experience and worked in world-class London hospitals such as University College London Hospital (UCLH). I was brimming with enthusiasm. My desire to make a difference spurring me on to embark on a journey to help others through diet therapy, particularly those struggling with gut-related issues.

Professional Growth: Building Expertise in Gastroenterology

I worked within the NHS, where I had the opportunity to expand my knowledge and gain invaluable experience. Hard work and determination soon saw me becoming a Gastroenterology Specialist Dietitian, working alongside a fantastic team of Gastroenterologists, Colorectal Surgeons and Specialist Nurses as well as my fellow Dietitians. During my time in the NHS, I strived to always put my patients first, instilling confidence and being their advocate when they needed me to. I was well liked and trusted by colleagues for my considered opinions and advice.

Personal Insight: Living with IBS

Having lived with IBS for nearly 30 years, the first 10 of which I spent not knowing what was causing my daily symptoms of pain and bloating, I understand what it’s like to feel confused, frustrated and hopeless. If you’re suffering with IBS, IBD, diverticular disease, food intolerances, gut motility issues, or any other digestive complaint or condition, it can be a real challenge to stay on top of things.

Providing Specialist Dietetic Gut Health Services

The Need for Specialised Care: A UK-Wide Problem

10‐20% of the UK population is thought to suffer with IBS (NICE, 2017), yet research indicates that 50% of NHS Trusts do not have dedicated dietetic IBS clinics (BMJ Front Line Gastroenterology Journal, 2021). There are thought to be 500,000 people diagnosed with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis in the UK, however around 60% of those do not have access to specialist dietetic care within the NHS (IBD UK, 2020).

My Commitment: Enhancing Gut Wellness through Private Practice

While working within the NHS allowed me to support a significant number of individuals, I realised that there was simply not enough time or resources to enable me to fully support my patients in their journey.

In 2021, I made the decision to transition to private practice and set up in Bishop’s Stortford as a specialist Gut Health Dietitian to allow me to take a more customised approach to managing digestive disorders through diet. I now have the privilege of working closely alongside individuals experiencing gut issues to help guide them towards better understanding of their symptoms and conditions using evidence-based nutrition for gut health, empowering them to choose how to manage their diet and health.

My Approach: Personalised Support for Each Client

As a Specialist Gut Health Dietitian, I work to support each client with online 1-2-1 sessions to not only achieve their desired outcomes but also experience improvement in their overall well-being. This involves a commitment to understanding the intricacies of each individual’s unique lifestyle and challenges. Working as a gut specialist dietitian is so incredibly rewarding. It’s so inspiring to see my clients move forward, find relief, and take control of their health and nutrition.

Working together with Anni Summers RD: Your Journey to Gut Health

Here at Anni Summers RD, we believe in a personalised approach to your well-being. It’s not just about addressing challenges but about embarking on a journey together, ensuring that you feel supported every step of the way. I look forward to being a part of your path to a healthier, happier you! Ready to Improve Your Gut Health? If you’re interested in finding out how I can help you, book a FREE Discovery Call with me.