Live in carers have turned out to be one of the most popular options for people who need comprehensive care. At Where 4 Care we have had plenty of opportunities to work with families in need of making decisions on care for their loved ones, and have witnessed, first-hand, what a real difference live-in care can make to the lives of those being cared for and those of their family members alike.
The concept of live-in care really follows a very simple yet powerful idea: a committed carer lives in the same home as the individual in need, and so he or she is able to provide direct, continuous care and companionship. Such settings can, in fact, provide the level of personalised attention which is not as easily afforded through traditional care home means. Probably one of the biggest advantages of opting for a live in carer is the fact that this enables an individual to stay in the comfort and familiarity of their own home. This can be extremely helpful, particularly for patients with dementia and other related illnesses where consistency and routine are so important.
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What Can I Expect from a Live In Care Provider
Families may expect a wide range of services when opting for live-in care, from assistance with activities of daily living to household chores and light support with meals. Most carers also perform household duties, including meal preparation, light housekeeping, and laundry. More importantly, perhaps, carers can provide companionship: engaging clients in conversation and often taking then on outings if possible.
Live in carers can provide professional support for those whose needs may be more complex. This could include medication management, mobility issues, or specific medical conditions. The majority of live-in carers are given training that prepares them to support clients with conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, stroke recovery, or progressive dementias. This is one of the beauties live-in care, the care plan is adaptable according to changing needs over time.
Perhaps above all, it’s the continuity that live-in carers can provide that can be one of the most reassuring aspects for families. While rotating shift workers will often change from week to week, this live-in carer becomes a fixture in the home, quickly developing an intimate knowledge of their client’s likes and dislikes, routines, and needs. This can be extremely comforting to the person receiving the care, as well as to the family members themselves.
The Benefits of a Live in Carer for Individuals
There are added advantages to having home carers, particularly with live-in care. Most importantly, it allows for a level of independence that may be hard or impossible in a residential setting. The person (whether that be elderly parent, friend or other family member) can remain in their usual routine, continue their hobbies and interests, and stay connected with their local community. This sense of self-determination can have a positive effect on one’s mental health and well-being, really making a great impact.
Reassurance for Families
For families, live-in care assures them that someone is there. That peace of mind, knowing a professional is well-trained and always there, can reduce a great deal of the stress and concern people face trying to care for an elderly or vulnerable family member. Moreover, family members can spend quality time when they visit rather than focusing solely on care giving tasks.
When considering opting for a live-in carer, the key is to find the right provider of that care. You should look to find agencies that are both fully regulated and highly reputable within the profession. A quality live-in care provider should have ensure carers not only have the required skills but are compassionate and reliable, too.
In your search, do not hesitate to question any potential providers about their carer training programs, supervision practices, and the support they offer to carers and clients. You may even wish to ask how they go about matching carers with their clients. The core of any successful live-in carer arrangement is at the heart of the relationship between the carer and client, so this matching process becomes key.
Other Key Factors to Consider when Looking for a Live in Carer
Another key factor to consider when looking into live-in care is, of course, the financial aspect. While live-in care is often less expensive than residential care, especially in the case of couples, it is still a significant investment. Some families might be eligible for financing from their local authorities or through continuing healthcare funding provided by the NHS, and this can be explored in order to ensure the care arrangement will be one that is financially viable. Another option is self-funded care which is explained in more details on the NHS website
Others things to consider are how it might affect your home: carers who live in will need their own private room in the house, usually with a bedroom and, where possible, use of a bathroom. Minor adaptations may also be required to ensure the home is safe and accessible for the person receiving care.
Emotional Benefits of Live-in Care for Both the Individual and Families
Choosing this type of at home care, is often based on a decision to give the best quality of life to a loved one. It allows individuals to maintain their dignity, independence, and connection to their personal history and local community. For most, being able to grow older in their familiar surroundings and possessions is worth more than any amount of money.
Particular benefits of the live-in care could be the fact that it enables couples to stay together in their shared home, even when one partner is in dire need of care. This can be a big contrast to potential separation that may occur in instances when one partner needs to move to a care home.
Where do I start?
Unsure where to start in finding the right live in carer for yourself or a loved one? Overwhelmed by the choices and not sure where to start? We are here to guide you from the very beginning.
Let’s start this journey together – because every step towards finding the right care should be a step filled with confidence and support.
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Are live in carers suitable for everyone?
While there are a great many benefits to live-in care, it is quite clear that it does not constitute an appropriate solution for everyone. Some people require more intensive medical support, which may be more readily available in a care home, or simply enjoy the sociable atmosphere of residential care. It is for this reason that all needs and preferences of your loved one have to be weighed up before a decision will be made.
How we can help?
If you are considering live-in care, Where 4 Care can be there to help and support you in your journey. We provide free, independent advice on all matters relating to care and helping the family steer their way through the bewildering world of care options. From how to seek assistance with funding queries to finding the right carers and continued advice and support, we do it all and at no cost to you!
We at Where4 Care differ in the commitment we have to finding that perfect at-home carer. We understand every situation is different and work diligently in finding carers not only with the right skill, but also who relate to your loved one’s personality and interests. We will provide you with a full-service approach that equips you with everything you may want or need to know and the necessary support to make the best decision in taking care of your family’s needs.
Where the right carer and support system are in place, live-in care can offer a great solution that enables your loved ones to thrive in their own home.