Published: 01/02/2023
What is Live-in or 24-hour care at Home?
It's no secret that the current healthcare system is in need of reform. The cost of care is skyrocketing, and many people can't afford to get the treatment they need. One solution that has been proposed is to provide Live-in or 24-hour care for the elderly or vulnerable at home. This would allow people to receive the care they need without having to move into specialist facilities.
It should be noted that Live-in care and 24-hour care and two different types of in-home care services. We often see Live-in care advertised as 24-hour care which can be misleading as no one carer can provide 24-hour care without a break.
The differences between the two types of care are outlined below.
What is Live-In Care?
Live-in care refers to a care arrangement where a caregiver lives in the home of the care recipient. The caregiver is not on duty for the full 24 hours in a day as they do require some downtime and rest. The daily shift can vary between 10-12 hours depending on the needs of the client and during this time they take care of the client completely. They can assist with daily tasks such as personal care (washing, bathing, showering, dressing etc) as well as cooking, feeding, shopping, companionship and the overall upkeep of the client's home.
Is Care available 24 hours a day with Live-in care?
Yes.
While you will have someone living in your home with you, Live-in care isn't available 24 hours a day without additional support such as overnight care. This is simply because the Live-in carer needs rest and time off. Live-In care is typically provided for around 10-12 hours per day on a fixed schedule. The benefit of live-in care is that this can be spread out throughout the 24-hour period.
If you need more care support than this, 24-hour Live-In care is possible however, it is not just provided by one carer and would typically involve two or more carers taking shifts throughout the 24 hours.
Overall, 24-hour care at home is a viable option for many people who want to remain in their own homes while receiving quality assistance and support around the clock. It can provide peace of mind for the individual and their loved ones. Live-in care can also take the pressure off friends and family to provide round-the-clock support.
What is 24-hour care?
In contrast to Live-In care, 24-hour care refers to a care arrangement where two or more caregivers are scheduled to work in shifts to provide round-the-clock assistance to the care recipient. The care recipient receives one-on-one attention and support throughout the day and night. This type of care is ideal for individuals who have complex medical conditions, such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease, and require a high level of monitoring and support.
Who needs Live-in or 24-hour care?
Many people could benefit from Live-in or 24-hour care at home. The elderly and disabled are the most obvious group of people that could use this type of care, but others may also find it useful. Those suffering from chronic health conditions, such as multiple sclerosis or cancer, might need extra help managing medications and other treatments throughout the day and night.
What are the benefits of Live-in or 24-hour care at home?
Live-in or 24-hour care allows the individual to continue living in their own home, which can be a huge source of comfort, particularly for those dealing with dementia or cognitive decline. It provides a more personal and intimate care experience for the care recipient. The caregiver becomes a constant companion, providing emotional support and comfort, as well as practical assistance with daily activities. This type of care also allows for more flexibility and customisation, as the caregiver can adapt to the specific needs and preferences of the care recipient.
It also avoids the need to downsize and move into a smaller property, which can help individuals to maintain a sense of independence for as long as possible.
What are the benefits of Live-in or 24-hour care?
There are many benefits to Live-in or 24-hour care, both for the patient and their family.
- It can provide peace of mind that a loved one is safe and being cared for around the clock.
- It also offers a sense of companionship and comfort, as well as help with day-to-day tasks such as shopping, cooking and cleaning.
- You can determine the schedule and adjust this as care requirements evolve.
- It can also provide help with medication management, as well as assistance with mobility and personal care
- Finally, it offers more flexibility than other forms of care, allowing the patient to remain in their own home while receiving quality care.
If you're interested in Live-in or 24-hour care in Camden, Hampstead, Golders Green and surrounding areas, get in touch with Right at Home Camden, Hampstead & Golders Green today. We can arrange a home visit to determine if live-in care or 24-hour care is right for you.
Our friendly and supportive team can be reached by calling 0203 921 1111 or by emailing us at camden.hampstead@rightathome.co.uk
