Benefits of Live-in Care versus Residential Care

Choosing the right type of care for a loved one is always a difficult decision. But before coming to any decision, there are many factors that need to be taken into consideration. In this blog we’ll explore the benefits of Live-in Care versus Residential Care to help you work out which is the right type of care for you.

What is live-in care? 

Live-in-care is where a carer resides in a patient’s home to offer round the clock care and support. It suits people who want to continue living in the safety and security of their home. The carer will have their own room and will carry out a variety of duties, such as providing thorough medical and personal care, managing medications, and providing valued companionship.

What is residential care?

Residential care refers to long-term care given to a patient who stays in a residential setting rather than a private home. It suits someone who needs support from a team of professionals or who doesn’t have the support network around them to continue living at home. In a residential home, carers provide personal care to clients, assisting them with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and taking medication. 

Benefits of Live-in Care versus Residential Care

1. Care is bespoke for each client

One of the advantages of live-in care is that client and carer can work together to formulate a personalised care package. As the care is unique to each client, it is possible to create an individualised care plan that best suits the client and their lifestyle. In a residential setting, the type of care is still tailored for each client, but will tend to follow more of a regular daily routine and pattern.

2. Clients have a sense of independence

Because the client has some say in what their care will look like, they retain a sense of control and independence. Being able to remain at home among familiar surroundings contributes to this sense of independence and autonomy whereas clients who have had to give up their homes to move into a residential setting may feel more unsettled and anxious.

3. You remain a part of the community 

For many people, being a part of the local community provides them with a sense of belonging. And knowing you are supported by friends, neighbours and other members of the community can boost overall wellbeing. Opting for live-in care at home means patients don’t have to give this up, which can help prevent feelings of isolation and loneliness which are so common among the elderly.

4. The chance to build strong relationships

With live-in care, there is the chance for patients to build strong relationships with their carer. Usually, a live-in carer will be the sole carer or will work on a 2-week rotation with another carer. This regular contact provides consistency and security, which can contribute to a sense of wellbeing in a patient. In a residential setting, patients can often be visited by several different members of staff, many who will work on shift rotations. 

5. It can be a cost-effective solution

The cost of care is not cheap, no matter which option you choose. However, live-in care could provide a more cost-effective solution than residential care, as there are none of the associated overheads. This is especially true if the patient owns their own home, or care is required for a couple living at the same address. Another advantage is that families can tailor the type of care to work for their budget.

6. Improved health monitoring 

Because they come to know their clients intimately, live-in caregivers will be able to notice the slightest changes in health. Early detection of changes in health conditions and prompt intervention is important as it contributes to better overall health outcomes.

Find out more about live-in care

If you are considering care options for yourself or a loved one, it is best to get professional help before making a decision. At Safehands Healthcare, we can provide live-in carers who are trained in medications management and will monitor and identify any changes in a person’s health. We can provide live-in care as 24-hour continuous care, short-term respite care, end of life palliative care or complex care. For more information, talk to one of our advisers who can help you get the best care for your needs.