Age, chronic health conditions or a recent injury can all make it difficult for an older loved one to continue living independently without extra support. Families often step in to support their loved ones, but juggling caregiving duties with family, life and career obligations is often overwhelming for family members.
If your relatives need extra support at home, live-in care is rapidly becoming the go-to choice for families looking to enhance the well-being of their loved ones.
Live-in care is when a professional carer moves into your home to provide round-the-clock practical support with daily activities but also companionship and emotional support. A live-in carer can quickly become a dedicated companion, offering personalised support and companionship that goes far beyond mere caregiving.
Here are ten compelling reasons why you should consider a live-in carer for your older relative:
1. Personalised care tailored to individual needs
One of the most significant advantages of having a live-in carer is the personalised attention your loved one receives. Everyone has unique needs and preferences, from how they like their tea to specific clinical needs for complex health conditions.
Live-in carers have the time to truly get to know your loved one so that they can tailor their approach to cater to these specific needs and preferences. From daily routines to medical requirements, the care plan is designed with the individual’s wishes and well-being in mind.
2. Familiar environment and routine
Moving to a residential care facility can be disorienting and distressing for older adults. With a live-in carer, your loved one can stay in the familiar surroundings of their home, maintaining a sense of comfort and routine. This continuity fosters a positive environment that contributes significantly to mental and emotional well-being.
3. Companionship and emotional support
Loneliness can have severe consequences on the health of older adults. With over 1.4 million older adults experiencing loneliness in the UK, ensuring companionship for our elders is increasingly important. A live-in carer not only attends to physical needs but also provides companionship and emotional support. Having someone on hand to engage in conversations, share stories, and provide genuine companionship can significantly enhance your loved one’s quality of life.
4. Maintaining independence and dignity
Live-in carers are trained to encourage and support independence. Rather than feeling dependent on others, your loved one can maintain a sense of autonomy, contributing to their self-esteem and overall well-being. With assistance tailored to their abilities, they can continue performing daily tasks and enjoying life on their own terms.
5. Cost-effective alternative to residential care
Contrary to popular belief, live-in care is often more cost-effective than residential care facilities. When the cost of selling a home, paying for a care facility, and other associated expenses are considered, the financial burden can be substantial. A live-in carer provides a more economical and flexible option while ensuring your loved one receives one-to-one personalised attention.
6. Flexible and adaptable care plans
The needs of an older individual can change over time or unexpectedly due to a fall or injury. Live-in carers offer flexibility to evolving health conditions and requirements. Whether the level of care needs to increase or decrease, a live-in carer can adjust the care plan accordingly, providing the perfect solution to your loved one’s changing circumstances.
7. Dedicated one-to-one attention
In a residential care setting, staff often need to attend to multiple residents, limiting the amount of individual attention each person receives. With a live-in carer, your loved one enjoys dedicated one-on-one care tailored to their preferences and lifestyle. This not only ensures their needs are met promptly but also fosters a deeper connection and understanding between the carer and the individual they care for.
8. Peace of mind for the family
Knowing that your loved one is receiving personalised care in the comfort of their home can provide immense peace of mind for family members. The regular updates and communication from the live-in carer create a transparent and collaborative approach to caregiving. This allows family members to be involved in decision-making and remain connected with their loved one’s well-being.
9. Reduced risk of infections and illnesses
Residential care facilities can sometimes expose older people to a higher risk of infections and illnesses due to close living quarters. In contrast, live-in care reduces the risk of exposure to external infections and illnesses, creating a safer environment for your loved one. This is particularly crucial, considering the vulnerability of the elderly to various health issues.
10. Smooth transition from hospital to home
Transitioning from hospital to home can be challenging for those recovering from an illness or surgery. A live-in carer facilitates a seamless transition by providing the necessary medical support and assistance needed for your loved one to get back on their feet.
Some providers also have in-house clinicians who can support this process, offering advice, appropriate carer training and a faster discharge from hospital so that your loved one can focus on recovery in the comfort of their home.
Choosing a live-in carer for your loved one is a decision that prioritises individualised care and emotional well-being whilst fostering a familiar and comfortable environment. From a financial, emotional, and practical standpoint, live-in care emerges as a compelling and compassionate alternative to traditional care facilities. It’s a choice that not only benefits the ] individual but also brings peace of mind and support to the entire family.
With over 10 years of experience and an ‘Outstanding’ rating by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), The Good Care Group provides high-quality live-in care, keeping clients safe and happy in the comfort of their own homes while improving their overall health and well-being.
The Good Care Group offers highly personalised, one-to-one care that reflects individual needs, choices, wishes and social preferences, allowing clients to maintain their independence and enjoy their preferred lifestyle. Get in touch to arrange your free, no-obligation care assessment.
