There are many options for care and when you decide, either for yourself or for a loved one, it is important that you make the right choice about the method of care. It’s worth taking the time to write down the advantages and costs of your choice.
Stay at home for longer
Live-In care gives you have the option to stay in your own home for far longer, live-in care means that you always have at least one carer in the home at all times.
Personalised care plan
A care plan which is tailored to you and your needs can be put in place. Unlike with a care home, it it is an individual customised plan. The plan takes into account every single thing about you, from the times you like your morning tea, to when you like to watch your favourite tv programmes, and when you need to take your medication. Everything about you is in the care plan and it is designed with only you in mind.
Be independence for longer
It is a proven fact that people who stay in their own homes are happier, and retain their independence for longer than those who live in care homes. If you are able to walk or travel, your carer will be able to go out with you , unlike in a care home where your are confined to the home and maybe garden. Any pets you have stay with you. Any routines you have can continue.
Individual attention
Unlike a care home where clients far outnumber the staff, with live-in care you receive individual attention. Even such basic things as what you like eating are taken into consideration, unlike in a care home where meals are not tailor-made.
24×7 support
Your live-in carer is never far away. You can call or ring a bell at any time you like and they will be right there with you. Care homes are notoriously short staffed and your needs may have to wait while staff attend to another client.
Continuity
You will have the same person every day attending to your needs. Most care plans allow for two carers so that they can alternate and take some time off, but generally you will have the same carers who look after you. This means that you get to know the carer and the carer knows you. Your carer will learn what you like and dislike, what annoys you and what pleases you. Many carers become close friends of the family.
Better for couples
Often with a care home, couples are separated and end up in separate rooms or even in separate care homes. With live-in care you and your partner stay in your own home, possibly even in your own room.
Works out cheaper
Live-in care works out cheaper than care home accommodation, particularly when there are two of you. In a care home you may pay up to double, whereas in your own home the cost with two of you is not double, it is less.