Live-In Care vs Care Homes: Which Is Right for Your Loved One?
When it comes to arranging long-term care for a loved one, the decision between live-in care and care homes is one of the most important – and often emotional – choices a family will make. Each option comes with its own benefits and considerations. At U&I Care, we believe in empowering families with the information they need to make the best choice for their circumstances, values and cultural preferences.
In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between live-in care and care homes to help you determine which option might be most suitable for your family.
What is Live-In Care?
Live-in care involves a fully trained carer moving into the home of the individual who needs support. The carer provides one-to-one, around-the-clock assistance with personal care, medication, mobility, household tasks, and companionship – all within the comfort and familiarity of the individual’s own home.
What is a Care Home?
Care homes provide accommodation, meals, and 24/7 support for individuals who can no longer live independently. Residents typically have their own room, while care is shared amongst all residents by a team of staff. While this can provide a sense of community, it also means less individual attention.
Key Differences at a Glance
Feature |
Live-In Care |
Care Home |
|
Environment |
Own home |
Shared care facility |
|
Personalisation |
One-to-one care, fully tailored |
Group care, standard routines |
|
Continuity |
Same carer or small team |
Multiple carers |
|
Cultural Consideration |
High – carers can be culturally matched |
Limited – standard care model |
|
Pets |
Allowed and supported |
Often not allowed |
|
Visitors |
Flexible, no set hours |
Set visiting hours |
|
Cost |
Competitive, especially for couples |
Varies, can be higher with added care needs |
Benefits of Live-In Care
- Stay in a familiar environment: Being surrounded by personal belongings, community, pets, and family is proven to support mental and emotional wellbeing, especially for those living with dementia.
- Personalised, one-to-one care: Unlike care homes, live-in care allows for fully tailored support – from diet and routine to language and cultural practices.
- Continuity and trust: The same carer or small team provides support, building a trusted and meaningful relationship over time.
- Ideal for couples: Live-in care is often more cost-effective than two separate care home placements, while allowing couples to stay together at home.
- Culturally sensitive care: At U&I Care, we specialise in matching carers with the language, culture and spiritual understanding that reflects your family’s background and preferences.
When Might a Care Home Be More Suitable?
If your loved one requires high-dependency, round-the-clock nursing care that cannot be managed at home.
When there is no suitable home environment or housing available for safe care delivery.
If social stimulation in a communal setting is a high priority and the individual enjoys group living.
Questions to Ask Yourself
- Does my loved one want to remain at home?
- Would they benefit from one-to-one, familiar care?
- Is it important to maintain cultural, religious or linguistic traditions?
- Do they have pets or attachments to their home environment?
- Are both members of a couple needing care?
Our Recommendation: Begin with a Conversation
At U&I Care, we understand the sensitivities and complexities involved in making this decision. We offer both short-term and long-term live-in care options tailored to your family’s unique needs.
Whether you are just starting to explore care options or are looking to transition from an existing care setup, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today.
