Alternatives to care homes
From care homes and nursing homes to expert care provided in the comfort of home by experienced, trained Care Professionals, there are so many ways to get the care you need.
What are the alternatives to care homes?
There are many care options available that can be tailored to your needs and preferences:
- Care homes – Communal homes where older adults have their own room, and their daily needs covered by experienced carers.
- Nursing homes – Care homes with additional medical help from registered nurses to support those with complex health needs like dementia.
- Visiting care – A carer visits your own home regularly to provide care.
- Live-in care– A carer lives in your home with you to provide round-the-clock care.
- Assisted living – A specially designed home of your own with adaptations like grab rails, and regular help from an onsite carer.
Retirement villages – Similar to assisted living, but offering varied assistance and home adaptations depending on needs.
Why is home care beneficial for older adults?
Everyone has different preferences and needs when it comes to care, so in some cases care homes, nursing homes or assisted living may be suitable. For others, staying in their own home is best, which is encouraged by the World Health Organization.Home care, whether visiting care or live-in care, can help to foster positive physical and mental health by keeping older adults independent, in familiar surroundings, and close to loved ones and their community, with access to flexible, one-on-one care that prioritises their routines and hobbies. Studies find patients who receive home care experience higher levels of patient satisfaction, and in those with dementia, research shows home care could even make them less likely to experience confusion.
Do I need a care home or home care?
If you need a care arrangement for a loved one, it’s usually best to begin by arranging a Care Needs Assessment, which means someone from your local council will visit their home to discuss and observe their health conditions, mobility, mental health and preferences. This helps determine the care they need and the best way to deliver it.It may help to consider what your loved one struggles with and what they can still do independently. If they need minimal support but would like companionship and home help, visiting care may be best. Or, if they need 24-hour support for a medical issue, a care home may cater to their needs. You can learn more in our articles: The Benefits Of Home Care vs A Care Home and Live-in Care vs Nursing & Care Homes
How can we help?
We've helped thousands of families to stay safe, comfortable and happy at home. Whatever situation you're facing, or whatever the question is, Home Instead is here to help.
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This is a company whose staff really do care on a personal level and who are client orientated, providing stimulative activities, conversation and going the extra mile to help client and family.Eileen, Client
As I got older, I realised that this service had made me happy in my own home.Elisie, Client
Knowing that mum has caring and genuine people to help take care of her gives me peace of mind and mum looks forward to seeing the Care Professionals. Thank you for making such a big difference to both of our lives.Rebecca, Client's Family
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How to get started arranging care
As above, the best way to begin arranging care – no matter what type of care you would prefer – is to speak to the person’s GP and reach out to your local council to arrange a Care Needs Assessment. This will help determine the type of care available and how much of it may be covered. Depending on your circumstances, your place in a care home or your home care may be subsidised to make this more affordable. Learn more about this in our article: Paying For Care: Who Pays What?
You can also reach out to arrange private home care with a managed live-in care provider like Home Instead. Our team can discuss your requirements and how our friendly, flexible Care Professionals can provide visiting care or live-in care, depending on your needs.
Why Home Instead?
We are proudly rated 9.6 on Homecare.co.uk, with many of our locations also rated “outstanding” by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). When it comes to using home care as an alternative to a care home, you can rest assured your loved one is in safe hands with our award-winning, experienced team.
Our Care Professionals are trained in a number of disciplines, and we take great care in pairing clients with someone who has the knowledge and experience to manage their health needs while also making them feel safe, comfortable and at ease in their own home.
“Home Instead provide first class care. My Care Professionals are patient, kind and very reliable. I am very happy with the service they provide.”
– Paul, Home Instead client
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What are the alternatives to care homes?
Alternatives to care homes include:
- Home Care Services: Professional carers visit your loved one at home to assist with daily tasks, personal care, and companionship.
- Live-In Care: A carer moves into the home to provide round-the-clock support.
- Respite Care: Temporary care to give family carers a break.
- Sheltered Housing: Independent living with access to on-site support if needed.
- Extra Care Housing: A step up from sheltered housing, offering more comprehensive care services while maintaining independence.
What is Live-In Care and how does it work?
Live-in care involves a Care Professional carer living in your loved one’s home to provide 24/7 support. They assist with personal care, household tasks, medication, and companionship, allowing individuals to stay in familiar surroundings. This option is ideal for those who need constant care but want to remain at home.
How can home care services help my loved one stay at home?
Home care services provide tailored support to help individuals maintain their independence at home. Services can include:
- Assistance with personal care (e.g., bathing, dressing).
- Help with household tasks like cleaning and cooking.
- Medication reminders and health monitoring.
- Companionship to reduce loneliness.
Care plans are flexible and can be adjusted as needs change.
What financial support is available for alternatives to care homes?
Financial support options include:
- Attendance Allowance: For those needing help with personal care.
- Carer’s Allowance: For family members providing care.
- Direct Payments: Local councils may provide funding for home care services if your loved one qualifies after a care needs assessment.
- NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC): For individuals with significant health needs.
Contact your local council or a benefits advisor to explore eligibility and funding options.
What are the benefits of choosing alternatives to care homes?
Alternatives to care homes offer several benefits, including:
- Independence: Individuals can stay in their own home or a familiar environment.
- Personalised Care: Tailored support to meet specific needs.
- Comfort: Remaining in a familiar setting can improve emotional well-being.
- Flexibility: Care plans can be adjusted as needs change.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Depending on the level of care required, alternatives like home care or live-in care can be more affordable than care homes.
Diane WIlliams , Head of Quality & Standards
Before joining Home Instead, I built a comprehensive career in the social care sector, beginning in 1991 as a frontline care worker and advancing to senior leadership roles across both private and voluntary sector businesses.
Throughout my career, I have supported diverse care groups in a variety of settings, including community, residential, nursing, and secure environments. My experience spans working with older adults, including those living with dementia; individuals with physical disabilities and complex, long-term health needs; people with learning disabilities, including autism; individuals with enduring mental health challenges; individuals with current or past substance use and those with forensic backgrounds.
In 2002, I qualified as a social worker and have since maintained my professional registration with Social Work England.