If you’re considering live-in care, you may be wondering what it involves. It’s a daunting prospect, having someone in your or loved one’s home 24/7.
Understandably, there can be a lot of trepidation and worry over how it would work and how comfortable the homeowner will feel.
But you might be surprised at the number of positives that come from having live-in care.
Let’s take a look at what the role involves and the benefits of live-in care and having an around-the-clock caregiver.
The role of a live-in caregiver
A live-in caregiver stays in the home to help with everyday activities like bathing, cooking and taking medications, while also making sure the person can move around their home safely.
They’re also a friend to the person they care for, chatting with them, doing fun activities together and keeping them company. This kind of help is a big relief for the family because they know their loved one has someone to look after them all the time. For the person receiving the care, it means that they have someone to talk to and help them stay active and involved in life.
Unsure whether your loved one could benefit from a live-in caregiver?
Take a look at these 9 signs that extra support is needed.
What are the benefits of live-in care?
When deciding if live-in care is the right thing for you, it’s important to consider what it will bring to your lifestyle.
Let’s have a look at the many benefits of live-in care.
Home comfort
Live-in care allows people to stay in their own homes where they’re surrounded by their own history and treasured memories. More than just making them feel safe, it supports their emotional and mental wellness. They can keep up their normal routine and live in a place they’re attached to, which brings them comfort and joy. Being at home with all their things around them fosters a feeling of contentment, familiarity and security, which is great for their life overall. This type of care also helps them feel connected to who they are and their life’s story.
Stable environment
For individuals facing cognitive challenges, such as those with dementia, a consistent environment can be crucial. Live-in care ensures they remain in a known and stable setting, which can mitigate confusion and distress. The caregiver provides steady, personalised care, which brings a comforting sense of order to their everyday experiences.
Flexible and personal
Live-in care changes to fit what a person needs over time. If someone needs to see the doctor more often, has to eat different foods, or needs extra kinds of care, the live-in caregiver can handle this at home. This way, care always matches the person’s current situation, ensuring they get the right support as their needs evolve.
Studies in the US have also found that keeping elderly people in their own home reduces doctors appointments by up to 25% presumably because of the flexibility of personal support.
Better value
Both live-in care and a care home are considerable expenses. With live-in care, you’ll know that you’re not paying for unnecessary extras like unused services, group activities or living space. In that sense, every penny you spend goes towards the quality of care.
Supports independence
Live-in care is about complementing the lifestyle of the individual, not controlling it. This type of care allows individuals to maintain their independence, with a caregiver helping them, according to their schedule and preferences. Preferable to a care home in many instances, live-in care provides more freedom for each individual.
Personalised, one-on-one care ensures that their specific needs are met and their habits are respected. Supporting an individual can also allow them to recover from injury or operation as live-in care is also used in rehabilitation.
Companionship
Live-in caregivers are more than just helpers. They often form meaningful bonds with the people they care for, becoming friends and confidants. This relationship is especially important for older adults who may otherwise feel lonely or cut off from others.
A caregiver’s companionship can bring joy to everyday activities, whether it’s chatting over breakfast, playing a board game or taking a walk in the garden. Sharing these moments not only brightens the day for the elderly but also provides crucial emotional support, helping to combat feelings of isolation. This social interaction can lead to a more positive outlook and better mental health.
Safety and monitoring
Having a caregiver live in your home means someone is always there to watch over you or your loved one. They can provide help when it’s needed quickly and stop accidents before they happen. This makes both the person getting help and their family feel safe because they know someone is always there to help, day or night.
If something goes wrong, like a fall or feeling sick suddenly, the caregiver can take care of it right away. They will be trained in various elements of first aid and more in-depth healthcare issues – giving the person and their family peace of mind that they will be looked after.
Healthcare coordination
A live-in caregiver can play a crucial role in coordinating healthcare needs. They can schedule appointments, as well as facilitate communication between healthcare providers and family members. They can ensure that health care plans are followed, medications are administered correctly and any changes in health are noted and addressed promptly.
Quality live-in care with Ranger Home Care
Choosing live-in care is a very personal matter. It involves considering not just the care requirements but also what will make your loved one most content and maintain their quality of life.
At Ranger Home Care, we are fully aware of the importance of this choice. A family-owned care service, we provide adult care nationwide across the UK. Officially recognised by local health authorities, our service has won awards for being personal, quick and straightforward.
So, call us on 01252 850040 or email natalie@rangerhomecare.com and we’ll talk you through our services and any questions you may have.
