Living Better With Live-in Care

If you are organising care for yourself or a loved one then you may be considering Live-in Care as an option to ensure all of your care needs are met in the comfort of your own home, with 24-hour support. 

What is Live-in Care ?

There are many different care options available that enable a carer to visit your home on a regular basis, such as night care (when they only visit overnight to provide necessary help), day care (when they provide companionship services and more throughout the day), respite care (when they visit for a specific period of time to allow another care worker or family member to take a break), and more. 

Live-in Care means a trained, professional carer will live with you in your home in order to provide the care you need on a regular basis, and support your specific needs. This is often a preferable alternative to a care home or nursing home, and it allows older people to remain living in their own home alongside a constant companion who can assist with things like personal care, specialist medical care, cooking, housework, and more. 

Why would someone need Live-in Care ?

With so many options for care available, you may be wondering whether you need someone to visit occasionally, more regularly, or to live in your home with you and provide 24/7 care. It can be difficult to know when you need care, and whether Live-in Care is the best option for you or your loved one, so here are a few reasons why someone might need Live-in Care :

1. Someone who requires several different types of care throughout the day (such as someone to help with personal care, someone to administer medication, etc.) might prefer to have one Live-in carer who can perform all of the care they need or coordinate other carers, instead of lots of people coming and going each day.
2. Someone with ill health may prefer the idea of having a carer with them at all times in case any health concerns come up, and to avoid any falls or accidents. 
3. Someone with complex care needs that cause them to struggle around the house – such as hearing or sight loss, or mobility issues – may find they feel more comfortable with a Live-in carer who can help them throughout the day and night. 
4. Someone with a dementia condition might need to have a Live-in carer providing care 24/7 so they are always safe and comfortable at home with a familiar face, and feel less lonely.
5. Someone who is already receiving care might start to notice carer visits are no longer frequent enough to keep up with their needs, in which case Live-in care could be the next best option. 
6. Someone who cannot afford a care home but needs round-the-clock care may find that Live-in care is a more affordable alternative.
7. Someone who has been unable to settle in a care home or nursing home (for example they are distressed at their change in surroundings, or they are feeling isolated from friends and their community) may find Live-in Care a preferable option that allows them to stay at home. 
8. Couples who want to stay together may find it difficult if one partner requires round-the-clock care but the other is not ready to move into a care home. In situations like these, Live-in Care can be a great option enabling partners to remain together in the home they know and love, while receiving all the care they need. 
9. Someone with a challenging recovery ahead after a hospital stay may need more care than usual, and Live-in Care can ensure they get everything they need in the comfort of home, with someone around to assist with things like wound cleaning and vital signs monitoring. 

What are the different types of Live-in Care ?

Under the umbrella of Live-in Care , there are several different types you may hear about, and it can be difficult to choose which is best for you or your loved one. Many care agencies will offer their own types of care, but typically you might come across the following: 

• 24-hour Live-in Care : For those who need round-the-clock care, 24-hour Live-in Care means there is always someone around to help with whatever you need, even if it’s the middle of the night. This will typically involve more than one carer, for example one providing daytime care and another overnight, or working on alternating shifts.
• Companionship care: Even if you do not yet require 24-hour Live-in Care , you may feel safer and less lonely with someone being with you in your home at all times. Companionship care fills this need by providing a friendly face to chat with, or to help with tricky home tasks or basic needs. You may need a different type of care if you have complex medical needs or specialist care is required. 
• Convalescent care/Intermediate care: This type of care is specifically for those recovering at home after a challenging surgery, injury or illness. If you are worried about post-hospital care, this type of Live-in Care can ensure you are monitored at all times until you feel better. The NHS can provide something called Intermediate Care or Reablement for up to six weeks if needed after a hospital stay, which can be discussed with your doctor or healthcare professional taking care of you in hospital. 
• Complex Live-in Care : This type of care is designed for those with conditions such as Dementia or Parkinson’s, who may require specially trained carers with experience caring for these conditions. 
• Respite care: Designed to allow other carers or family members to have a break for a variety of reasons (a holiday, an important event, to avoid burnout, etc.), live-in respite care means a carer will take over caring tasks on a temporary basis, moving into your home to ensure all needs are met for the duration of the respite period. 
• Emergency home care: Sometimes things come up at short notice and require expert care at the drop of a hat. In these cases, you can feel safer and more supported having a Live-in carer move into your home temporarily to take care of you and make sure you have everything you need. 
• Palliative care: For those with a terminal illness, staying at home where they feel comfortable is so important. In these cases, Live-in Care can be extremely helpful to ensure they have absolutely everything they need during this challenging time, and that their family members feel confident they are receiving the best care. 

What are the main benefits of Live-in Care ?

Ultimately, Live-in Care has many benefits that could make it an ideal choice for you depending on your specific care needs and home situation. These include: 

• Safety – A survey by Age UK found that 4.3 million older people (36%) said falling over was at the top of their list of concerns, so 24/7 support can help them to feel safe and confident at home. 
• Companionship – 1.4 million older people in the UK say they are often lonely, so companionship care can help people avoid feelings of isolation by always having someone around.
• Consistency – Only one or two carers rotating means there is no revolving door of carers entering your home, and you have more opportunity to develop a bond with your carer(s). It also helps you to remain living at home instead of in a care home. 
• Affordability – Research suggests providing care at home could be a more cost-effective option for older people. 
• Social life – Live-in Care enables you to stay at home and connected to friends, family and the wider community. Plus, you can maintain hobbies that you enjoy. 
• Relationships – Couples can stay together in their own home through Live-in Care , rather than one person being moved to a care home while the other lives separately. 
• Wellbeing – Staying in the home can promote a healthy, positive mindset by preserving an individual’s sense of independence and control, and Live-in Care enables this.  

How do I arrange Live-in Care for myself or a loved one?

If you would like to arrange Live-in Care , you can discuss this when you have your Care Needs Assessment (you can arrange this through your local council) and this can potentially be included in your Care Plan. You can request live-in care, but it will be down to the assessor as to whether or not they feel you need this based on your situation, medical conditions and care needs.

If you are interested in discussing self-funded Live-in Care options with a private agency, you can reach out to them to arrange a chat and find out more about the services they provide, and how Live-in Care works with their agency. 

Live-In Care vs Nursing & Care Homes

There comes a time when you or your loved one may be considering a potential move to a care home or nursing home, and weighing up the advantages and disadvantages of this option compared to receiving Live-in Care at home. 

It can feel like a big decision whether you are making it for yourself or on behalf of a loved one, so if you have questions about Live-in Care versus a nursing or care home, we can help.

What is the difference between a care home and a nursing home?

If you have never looked into different types of homes for older people before, you might assume that care homes and nursing homes are the same thing. In fact, they provide different services so it’s important to know the distinction in case you are considering a move to a facility that can support your needs. 

Put simply, a care home is a communal, residential property that offers a safe, supportive environment for older people to live in. In a care home, ageing adults will receive help with things like getting washed and dressed. They will also be offered meals, have their medication managed, and be able to get involved in a schedule of social activities. 

A nursing home may look similar in that it provides a communal, residential environment for older people to live in and have their daily needs taken care of, but staff in nursing homes are Registered Nurses who can look after residents in need of higher levels of support. This might be something like care for those who have just come out of hospital, have serious health conditions, require vital signs monitoring or wound cleaning, and more. 

Ultimately, the big difference between the two is the presence of qualified nurses within a nursing home, who can provide that extra level of medical care should residents need it. You can think of a nursing home as an intermediary location between home and hospital. 

What are the advantages and disadvantages of Live-in Care ?

Live-in Care has many pros and cons, but it is often thought of as a great choice for anyone who needs a little more help than regular home care can provide, such as someone with complex needs like dementia. You can read more about who could benefit from Live-in Care here, but here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of Live-in Care : 

Live-in Care advantages

• Opportunities to remain an active part of the community by seeing friends, attending local activities, and enjoying the place you call home.
• Opportunities to establish a strong bond with carers through shared interests.
• One-to-one, personalised, focused care and support at all times.
• Couples can stay together in their own home with Live-in Care.
• The opportunity to have control over where palliative care takes place. According to research, 71% of people would prefer to stay at home than go to a hospice. 
• Live-in Care can be a more affordable option, and there is no need to sell your home to finance your stay in a care home.
• Better wellbeing outcomes for older adults, as studies have found patients who receive home care experience higher levels of patient satisfaction.
• Familiar surroundings, so older people feel more comfortable. Studies show this can improve the quality of life of those with dementia, and make them less likely to experience confusion than those in care homes. 
• A sense of independence from staying in your own home. Research suggests interventions to maintain independent living have the potential to improve health perception and self-efficacy in older adults. 
• More opportunities for friends and family to visit regularly.
• Flexibility to eat, socialise and sleep when you want to, rather than being bound by a daily schedule. 
• No need to give up beloved pets, as you can stay in your own home with them.
• Easy to arrange a trial period so you or your loved one can try Live-in Care first before you commit to it long-term. 

Live-in Care disadvantages

• • Home administration is required when staying at home, so you may need help to pay bills, deal with home repairs and so on. 
  • Discomfort from having a stranger move into the home.

• Home alterations may be required to make the home safe as your mobility decreases. Luckily, many of these are easily installed, and studies show home assessments and tailored interventions can reduce recurrent falls of older adults by up to 38%.

• A spare room is required for a Live-in carer to have their own space.
• Palliative care can be difficult from home if family members are helping to care for an individual, as often round-the-clock care is eventually needed. 

What are the advantages and disadvantages of a care home? 

Care home advantages

• A sense of safety from having a lot of people around at all times, and appropriate equipment and infrastructure to help those with mobility issues. 
• High standards of care due to regulation from the Care Quality Commission.
• Managed medication schedules and, if relevant, help to administer medications.
• An active social life and a sense of community, with many opportunities for social contact and entertaining activities like crafting, music, games and more. This can help to keep feelings of loneliness at bay. 
• An easier way of life, with no cooking, cleaning or administrative responsibilities like paying utility bills or organising health appointments – everything is done for you.
• No home to maintain, meaning there is no need to keep up with things like gardening and home repairs.

Care home disadvantages

• According to studies, care home residents have an increased risk of experiencing acute hospitalisations and adverse events, and also have an increased risk of infections due to the close proximity to other residents. 
• Care homes can sometimes be the more expensive option, and some people may need to sell their home in order to finance them. According to Age UK, it costs on average £800 to £1,078 per week for a place in a care or nursing home depending on where you are in the country. 
• There is evidence to suggest care home residents see a decline in their health after moving. The Office for National Statistics found that life expectancy for care home residents from 2021-22 ranged from 2.9 to 7 years for female residents, and 2.2 to 6.3 years for male residents; significantly lower compared to non-care home residents.
• Regulations and routines may be imposed, such as specific mealtimes, limited food choices, specific visiting hours and more. These may not suit all residents. 
• Moving out of your own home can cause stress and upheaval.
• All belongings must fit into one room instead of an entire house, so often downsizing is required which can be a stressful experience. 
• Care homes feel unfamiliar in the beginning. Although there are many positives, some people consider them to be depressing environments compared to their own home.
• There can be less choice when deciding on a care home if it is being funded by the local council.
• Couples may need to be separated if only one needs the support of a care home.
• There is no opportunity for a trial period within a care home, as residents must fully move in to receive the care they need. 

What are the advantages and disadvantages of a nursing home?

Although very similar to the pros and cons of care homes, as mentioned above, there are a few additional advantages and disadvantages to know about for nursing homes: 

Advantages of nursing homes

• Medical care can be provided 24 hours a day by Registered Nurses supported by Care Assistants.

• Nursing homes have the appropriate equipment for care and emergency response, if needed.
• Funding is often more easily available if nursing care is required.
• An active social life and a sense of community, with many opportunities for social contact and entertaining activities like crafting, music, games and more. This can help to keep feelings of loneliness at bay. 
• A sense of safety from having a lot of people around at all times, and appropriate equipment and infrastructure to help those with mobility issues.
• An easier way of life, with no cooking, cleaning or administrative responsibilities like paying utility bills or organising health appointments – everything is done for you.
• No home to maintain, meaning there is no need to keep up with things like gardening and home repairs.
• Medications are managed and administered, and any additional medical needs are taken care of.
• High standards of care due to regulation from the Care Quality Commission.

Disadvantages of nursing homes

• There can be less choice when deciding on a nursing home if it is being funded by the local council.

• There is evidence to suggest nursing home residents see a decline in their health after moving. The Office for National Statistics found that life expectancy for care home residents from 2021-22 ranged from 2.9 to 7 years for female residents, and 2.2 to 6.3 years for male residents; significantly lower compared to non-care home residents.
• Nursing homes can sometimes be the most expensive option, and some people may need to sell their home in order to finance them. According to Age UK, it costs on average £800 to £1,078 per week for a place in a care or nursing home depending on where you are in the country. 
• Regulations and routines may be imposed, such as specific mealtimes, limited food choices, specific visiting hours and more. These may not suit all residents. 
• Nursing homes feel unfamiliar in the beginning. Although there are many positives, some people consider them to be depressing environments compared to their own home.
• Moving out of your own home can cause stress and upheaval.
• All belongings must fit into one room instead of an entire house, so often downsizing is required which can be a stressful experience. 
• Couples may need to be separated if only one needs the support of a nursing home.
• There is no opportunity for a trial period within a nursing home, as ageing adults must fully move in to receive the care they need.

What about assisted living?

Assisted living may also be called extra-care housing, and it is a type of care that empowers the recipient to remain independent for as long as possible. This usually means moving into a home that is designed for someone with your needs and receiving help with some aspects of daily living such as getting washed and dressed, or weekly grocery shopping. 

While Live-in Care has a carer visit your existing home, and a care home or nursing home acts as a communal living space for those with more intense care needs, assisted living can be a good intermediary option between at-home care and a care home. They are mostly used by those who have additional care needs as they get older, but are not yet ready for (or not interested in) moving into a communal care or nursing home. 

There are many different types of assisted living facilities with differing levels of support, but typically this will look like a self-contained flat or house of your own, with a private entrance, surrounded by other houses with residents that need similar levels of care. The house will be set up to be functional for older people, making it easy to move around and live life safely and comfortably. There is usually a warden who will oversee the houses in the community, and occasional visits from carers who will support your daily care needs and be on call 24/7 with emergency care if needed. 

Many assisted living facilities will have community areas and optional opportunities to socialise, however, you will mostly be able to treat this house or flat as your own private home. Some of these facilities will be available to rent or buy privately, while others will be operated by your local council. 

To clarify the difference between all the types of care facilities available:

Live-in Care = An experienced carer lives in your current home with you to provide care 

Assisted living = You will move into a new house or flat designed to make life easier for you (i.e. it may contain grab rails and ramps) and is overseen by carers who live separately 

Care home = A communal home in which you will live in one room and make use of common areas if desired, and have help with your daily needs from experienced carers 

Nursing home = Similar to a care home, but with additional medical help provided by registered nurses  

What are the advantages and disadvantages of assisted living? 

Advantages of assisted living

• A sense of safety knowing that there are carers around if needed and that you will likely be checked on at least once a day. 
• An active social life and a sense of community, with potential opportunities for social contact through communal areas that can help to avoid feelings of loneliness. 
• The level of care can be adjusted as needed, as staff are already on-site and ready to help. 
• Housing is regulated and inspected by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
• Most assisted living facilities are designed to make life easy and safe for older adults, including things like ramps and grab rails, emergency pull cords, and more. 
• Access to 24-hour emergency help via an alarm system if needed.
• Couples can move into assisted care together and avoid being separated. 
• Families can focus on spending quality time with their loved one instead of spending visits doing housework or chores. 
• Assisted living is thought to improve residents’ quality of life, as some studies suggest it could provide a stable sense of self, social belonging and a feeling of safety.
• Some assisted living facilities have services on-site to make life easier, such as hairdressers, communal spaces, transport and more. 
• The opportunity to live in a full house or flat rather than just one room, as would be the case in a care home. 
• Often assisted living facilities will charge one monthly fee that includes all care costs, house rent, meals and more, making the administration easier. 

Disadvantages of assisted living

• In some assisted living facilities it can be a long wait to receive a place there. 
• Like in a care home, there may be rules and schedules to adhere to, such as specific times when carers will visit, which may not suit everyone. 
• Moving out of your own home and into a whole new one can cause stress and upheaval. 
• A new home will feel unfamiliar in the beginning and could take some adjustment. 
• Although assisted living facilities have emergency alarms, they lack the 24-hour support of Live-in Care , so they may not be suitable for those with more intense care needs. One study of assisted living facilities in the US found that 48% of subjects living in such facilities were hospitalised within one year.
• Changes in staff are unavoidable, so you may not see the same friendly face or receive the same quality of care at all times. 
• There may be a feeling of having less privacy with assisted living, as carers may be entering your house throughout the day. 
• There could be less choice available when deciding on an assisted living facility if it is being funded by your local council.
• There is usually no opportunity for a trial period, however, a visit to see the new home before moving may be arranged.  
• Care may not always be as personal as it would be with Live-in Care , as carers will still have several people to check in on each day. 
• For those with very specific medical needs, assisted living may not be able to provide the necessary care that a nursing home could. 
• The cost of assisted living can be extremely high in some places, and sometimes not all benefits are included within the monthly rate, such as housekeeping and laundry, meal delivery, and more – always check this with each provider. 

Which is best for me?

It can feel like a big decision to choose between a care or nursing home, or to pursue Live-in Care within your own home. Deciding what is best for you should only ever be the decision of you and your closest family members, so never feel pressured to be placed anywhere you do not want to be. 

One thing to consider when choosing could be your main priorities at this stage in your life, as these can often point you towards the best option. Think about which of the below you feel most strongly about:  

• Community – If you want to maintain a connection with your community, family and friends, Live-in Care could be the best option for this.
• Safety – If feeling safe and supported at all times is important to you, a care home, nursing home or Live-in Care can all provide a sense of safety.
• Personalised care – If you would like one-on-one care, Live-in Care may be the best choice for you.
• Finances – If maintaining healthy finances as you age is on your mind, Live-in Care can be the most cost effective form of care.
• Independence – If you are worried about losing your independence in life, and having flexibility in everyday activities, Live-in Care could help encourage this. 
• Social life – Live-in Care means you can stay connected to friends, but a care home or nursing home could be a better fit if you would like lots of activities and entertainment organised for you every day.
• Medication management – If you have a complex condition that requires a lot of medication, or your medication schedule is complicated, a nursing home could be the best fit to help you manage this. However, Live-in Care could also deliver what you need within your own home.
• Loneliness – If you experience loneliness and want to keep this at bay, a care home, nursing home or Live-in Care can all ensure you get contact and connection each day.
• Ease – If your aim is to make daily life easier, then a care home or nursing home will likely take more off your plate by doing a lot for you. However, Live-in Care means you can choose what to continue doing yourself, and what you need help with.
• Trial period – You may be able to arrange a visit to a home or assisted living facility, to see the place before you decide to move there, but Live-in Care is the only option that really enables you to try before you commit.

Before making any big decisions, it can be useful to consider how much help is required each day; list out the tasks that would make life easier, how often they come up, and how they are currently being handled (for example, by another carer, family member or neighbour). You may want to ask yourself questions like:

• What do I struggle with most, and is this likely to improve or get worse over time?
• How would I manage if my carer/family member/neighbour fell ill and could not help me for some time?
• What daily tasks do I still feel confident doing myself? 

The aim here is to come to a long-term solution that will ensure all of your needs are taken care of without compromising on your independence. Asking yourself some prompt questions such as the above can help you reach a conclusion about when it is time to seek help, how much help you need, and whether or not you could receive that help in your own home. 

What types of Live-in Care can you find? 

Live-in Care is an umbrella term for a number of types of care in which someone might move into an older person’s home with them. While lots of agencies offer their own types of care, you will usually come across: 

• 24-hour Live-in Care: For those with round-the-clock needs, 24-hour Live-in Care means there is always someone (usually at least 2 carers) nearby day or night.
• Companionship care: Those who do not yet require 24-hour Live-in Care may feel safer and less lonely with someone in their home at all times, and companionship care offers this.
• Convalescent care/Intermediate care: This type of care is specifically for those recovering at home after a challenging surgery, injury or illness. If you are worried about post-hospital care, this type of Live-in Care can ensure you are monitored at all times until you feel better.
• Complex Live-in Care: This type of care is designed for those with conditions such as dementia or Parkinson’s who require specially trained and experienced carers.
• Respite care: Designed to allow other carers or family members to have a break, live-in respite care means a carer will take over caring tasks on a temporary basis. 
• Emergency home care: Sometimes people need expert care at the drop of a hat, but with emergency home care you can feel safe and supported with a Live-in carer moving into your home temporarily to take care of you.
• Palliative care: For those with a terminal illness, staying at home where they feel comfortable is so important. In these cases, Live-in Care can be extremely helpful to ensure they have absolutely everything they need during this challenging time. 

The Carer Transition: From Respite To Live-in

The Role Of Live-In Respite Care

If you are caring for an older family member in a full-time capacity, it is so important to understand the benefits of respite care and how it can help with your current situation. Here, we are breaking down what live-in respite care is, why it can be helpful (or necessary) for full-time carers, its many benefits, how to know when you need it, how to handle the transition period, how to arrange live-in respite care, and what support and funding could help you do this.

What is Live-in Care?

Live-in Care is when a trained, professional carer moves into the home of an older person for a period of time in order to provide personalised, 24/7 care for their specific needs. Many older people choose to stay in their own house as they get older, and Live-in Care can offer the necessary care to allow them to feel safe and supported in the comfort of their home, instead of having to move into an assisted living facility, care home or nursing home. 

Live-in Care can consist of whatever combination of services the client needs, such as companionship, personal care, cooking, housework, specialist medical care and more.  

You can read more about this type of care our guides to what Live-in Care is and how it works in practice.

What is respite care?

Respite care is sometimes called replacement care, or carer’s breaks. It is temporary care which takes over all caring duties for an individual who needs daily help, in order to allow their regular carer or family member to take a break. 

Those needing care are often looked after by their partners, children or another close relative, and these family members frequently offer their time for free, or feel that the caring role is entirely their responsibility. 

If this sounds similar to your situation, it is important to remember that constant caring duties can start to impact your own work and life. Daily needs can become overwhelming, and can make it more difficult to manage other life responsibilities like getting to work on time, caring for young children, managing your own health, and more. 

Why is respite care important for caregivers? 

Many people struggle with feelings of guilt about leaving their loved one, or feel uncomfortable leaving their care in the hands of a stranger, but there is evidence to suggest that respite care offers benefits to everyone from carers to patients. Even if you feel you are handling caring duties well, know that it can become tiring after a while and can have a negative impact on your health, mindset, relationships, career, and more. 

It is important to prioritise your own wellbeing in order to continue providing the very best care for your loved one, as research indicates caregivers who are experiencing strain have a 63% higher mortality risk than others. 

Respite care is certainly worth looking into if you have been caring for someone for a while and need more time off to manage your own responsibilities, attend an appointment or special occasion, or just recharge your batteries. For families that are providing full-time, long-term care, respite care is incredibly important, allowing you to feel confident that your loved one is well cared for at home.

What types of respite care are available? 

Respite care can be provided wherever it is needed, such as at home, or through a specialised facility. It allows the caregiver to rest and recharge, see to personal matters, and take much-deserved breaks that will enable them to continue caring for an older relative. 

There are different types of respite care available, such as:

• Home care – Whether organised by your local council or paid for independently, home care can be arranged so that a respite carer takes over caring duties within the home for a period of time, such as one week so the family can go on holiday, or one day a week as an ongoing day off for the regular carer. 
• Care home stays – In some cases you can organise a temporary stay in a care home for respite, which means the regular care offering of a care home would be extended to the person during their stay there. 
• Sitting services – Sometimes charities like Age UK will offer sitting services, which means a volunteer (with training) will sit with the person for a few hours in order to give regular caregivers a break. 
• Day care centres – These are often run by local councils or charities, and provide opportunities for older people to socialise with others and take part in activities. 
• Emergency respite care – Sometimes carers have their own emergencies or situations that they cannot get out of, so it is important to think in advance about having emergency respite care in place that can take over at a moment’s notice. 

Who could benefit from live-in respite care?

Live-in respite care means a professional carer will move into the client’s home to provide live-in care services on a temporary basis, so the regular carer(s) can take a break. Live-in respite care can be a positive alternative to a temporary stay in a care home, and can continue to prioritise the client’s own routine and preferences by ensuring they remain at home where they feel comfortable. 

Live-in respite care could benefit: 

• Full-time carers of older people
• Full-time carers of those with disabilities
• Anyone recovering from an illness or surgery who needs temporary care 
• Anyone who needs to continue certain medication routines while their usual carer takes time off
• Anyone with dementia who needs reminders to do things while their usual carer takes time off  
• Those in need of palliative care and 24/7 monitoring 
• Those with a chronic illness in need of constant care 
• Parents of children with special needs who could benefit from breaks for their own mental wellbeing

Live-in respite care can help the individual requiring care to feel in control of their own life, while enabling their usual carer to manage their own life responsibilities without having to worry that their loved one has been left alone or without adequate care in place. 

Why might someone request respite care at home?

There are many reasons carers need time away from their caring responsibilities, whether they are a paid carer or a family member caring for a loved one. These include (but are not limited to) temporary relief from caring duties:

• To avoid burnout and overwhelm 
• To provide a rest from the physical exhaustion caused by the demands of caring 
• To provide a break from the emotional exhaustion of caring for a loved one 
• To attend an upcoming event 
• To go on a much-needed holiday, whether this means going away somewhere or staying at home 
• To start taking regular days off each week for wellbeing 
• To cover a period of increased demand, such as a busy work project or after the birth of a baby
• To cover care duties while the regular carer is ill or unable to work  

What are the benefits of live-in respite care?

If your loved one is already receiving Live-in Care from you or a regular carer, live-in respite care may be the best choice to ensure all bases are covered while the usual caregiver is on a break. However, there are so many flexible options for home care, so other types of respite care may be preferable depending on the situation. 

Live-in respite care has many benefits when compared to other respite care options like someone popping in each day or a temporary stay in a care home. The benefits include: 

• Constant companionship for the person needing care, which keeps feelings of loneliness at bay 
• One-to-one, personalised care throughout the respite period 
• Less stress for the person needing care, as there is no need to wonder what time their carer will show up each day 
• Allowing the individual to have control over where palliative care takes place (research says that 71% of people would prefer to stay at home over going to a hospice)
• The person needing care doesn’t need to miss out on community gatherings, meetups with friends, or their favourite activities while their regular carer is off 
• Studies show that familiar surroundings can improve the quality of life of those with dementia, so live-in respite care could be the best option for them if their regular carer is taking a break 

Ultimately, having a temporary caregiver living inside the client’s home means they can rest assured there is always someone on hand if needed. This can also put family members’ minds at ease knowing there is someone around to take on caregiving duties even if they are not, and that their loved one can stay in their own home. 

How long can you get live-in respite care for? 

Home care can be flexible to suit the needs of each individual, so if you need to arrange live-in respite care you can discuss your requirements with the agency providing this, or with the assessor during your Care Needs Assessment. 

You may be able to organise live-in respite care for a few days a week to give yourself a regular break from caring duties, or you could arrange one or two weeks or respite care to make sure everything is covered while you go on a holiday. 

Whatever your needs are to maintain a healthy mind and body, to manage your own life responsibilities, and to avoid missing out on important events, you can arrange live-in respite care to support your loved one, or as a temporary replacement for a current Live-in carer.

How do you know if you need live-in respite care?

It is very difficult to recognise whether or not you need home care services for yourself. Similarly, it can be difficult to know what needs your loved one has when you see them so often and may not realise they have declined in health or mobility. 

You may find it useful to read our guide for more information on this topic: Do I Need A Carer? How To Tell If You Or A Loved One Needs Support.

When it comes to respite care, it is usually up to the regular caregiver to recognise when they need help or a break from their care duties. Some of the signs to look out for that may indicate your need for respite care include: 

• If you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed with the amount of care your loved one needs
• If you are unable to get everything done around your own life responsibilities 
• If you feel physically exhausted often, or are experiencing a decline in your own health 
• If you feel mentally exhausted and are struggling to see your loved one in pain 
• If you are noticing yourself making more mistakes with their care, or dropping the ball on important areas of your own life
• If you have a particularly big life change coming up, such as a new job or a new baby 

When someone takes over to provide respite care, how is the handover managed?

Trusting someone else to provide your loved one with the appropriate care can be tough, especially when you are so used to doing it yourself and you know what their preferences are. When respite care is arranged with a reputable care agency, you never need to worry that the respite carer won’t know what they are doing as there should always be a thorough handover period in which you or the regular carer can go through everything that you would like done. 

This includes things like schedules, medication needs, family check-ins and more, and can ensure you and your loved one feel completely comfortable with the arrangement. An efficient and detailed handover is an important part of respite care, as it ensures the client receives relevant and consistent care no matter how much time off you need. If you are preparing for a handover, it can help to:

• Find any official documents that may be required during the respite period, such as Care Plans, medication schedules, etc. 
• Write down a full plan outlining what needs to happen and when 
• Include information about the client’s preferences if you can, such as activities they enjoy doing, any community events they would like to attend, what time they prefer to eat and go to bed, etc. 
• Write down any vital information (such as medication needs) and discuss this in person at the handover so you feel comfortable that they understand what needs to happen 
• Walk the respite carer through a demonstration of any routines or complicated procedures that may be required, and let them know where any equipment is kept
• If your loved one needs to attend any medical appointments while you are away, make sure the respite carer knows when these will take place and any other information they may need
• Discuss your loved one’s eating habits, preferences, where food is kept and how to use any kitchen appliances
• If cleaning is required during the respite period, let the carer know where cleaning supplies are kept and what your loved one prefers to be done each week 
• Provide emergency contacts for the respite carer to use if they need them, and let them know who to contact if they have any day-to-day questions (if you are going on holiday or taking a break from all caring, it can help to provide contact details for an alternative family member) 
• If you would like to stay in touch, encourage the respite carer to keep in touch with updates to put your mind at ease while you are away
• Give the respite carer time to ask any questions they have, and answer them as best you can 
• Introduce your loved one to the respite carer while you are there, and assure them that they are in good hands. Remember they may be anxious about being apart from you and not feel entirely comfortable with a respite carer in the beginning, so do what you can to reassure them and put their mind at ease

How do you find and arrange live-in respite care?

If you are seeking respite care through your loved one’s local council (or local carers’ centre, if you have one), they can provide all the information you need about arranging live-in respite care. Keep in mind the local council will only fund respite care for those they have assessed – you can apply for a Care Needs Assessment here. 

You can find your nearest carers’ service here, or your local authority adult social care services:

• Here if you live in England
• Here if you live in Scotland
• Here if you live in Wales
• Here if you live in Northern Ireland

If you are planning to fund respite care yourself, there are a number of services available which can be found online with reviews and testimonials. By doing your research, you can find the best agency offering flexible, bespoke respite care for however long you need it. 

It can be difficult to leave your loved one in the hands of someone else, which is why a good care agency will be sure to match your loved one with the ideal respite carer for them, and ensure the handover period is seamless and encouraging for everyone involved. 

What support and funding is available for live-in respite care?

You can apply for help to fund these costs through your loved one’s local council, and the council will carry out a financial assessment which will determine how much funding you could receive towards the costs of live-in respite care. 

Whether you are considering this route or paying for live-in respite care yourself, you may find our guide on paying for home care useful, too.

How Much Does A Live-In Carer Cost?

A Live-in carer may be an appealing option if you (or your loved one) require a lot of help each day, such as with personal care and grooming, housework, medical needs or companionship. While this may seem like a great decision, you will of course need to consider the cost of hiring a Live-in carer to see if it makes financial sense for your circumstances.

What is Live-in Care?

Live-in Care is when a trained, professional carer (or two or three carers on rotation) lives in your house with you to provide all of the necessary care you need, or coordinate other carers or medical professionals coming to the house to deliver the relevant care. 

This is a great way to ensure older adults can stay in their own home while having someone there with them for companionship and safety. A Live-in carer might assist with things like personal care, specialist medical care (if trained to do so), cooking, housework, and more. 

An older person might opt for a Live-in carer if they:

• Require several types of care throughout the day and would prefer one or a small number of carers to handle everything  
• Have complex care needs (like hearing or sight loss) that cause them to struggle around the house
• Worry about falls or accidents and would prefer to have someone with them 24/7
• Have a dementia condition and may need a Live-in carer to ensure safety
• Have growing care needs as a health condition advances 
• Cannot afford to move to a care home but need round-the-clock care
• Have been unable to settle in a care home or nursing home 
• Have a spouse and want to stay together in their own home
• Have a challenging recovery ahead after a hospital stay and need a lot of care

You can read more about this in our guides to what Live-in Care is, and how Live-in Care works.

Is there a set price for a live-in carer?

When it comes to Live-in Care, the cost is very hard to predict until you discuss your exact needs with the agency providing your carer. There are many variables, such as:

• The needs of the client
• How many Live-in carers will be on rotation
• Whether or not the client needs specialist medical care 
• Where in the country the client is situated 
• … and more

Every Live-in care package is unique to the individual client, so the best way to gauge how much this will cost you is to get in touch with an agency who provides Live-in carers and discuss this with them. As a rough guide to cost, Live-in Care through an agency often ranges from around £1,350 to £2,000 per week in the UK, depending on the factors mentioned above. 

Should I use an Introductory Agency for Live-in Care?

Introductory Agencies can seem more affordable than fully managed care providers, coming in at around £1,000 to £1,500. However, if you are looking to stick to a budget long-term this may not be the best option for you, since using these services means your carer would be employed by you, not by the Introductory Agency, and therefore could increase prices or add on services down the line. Introductory Agencies are also not regulated by the Care Quality Commission, which means you cannot guarantee that the care you are receiving is of the highest quality. 

Working with a fully managed care provider is usually the best option. Despite their weekly cost being slightly higher, they offer the protection of being regulated, manage your carer’s employment on your behalf, find replacement carers when needed, and offer ongoing support throughout the duration of your Live-in Care. 

You can learn more about the differences in our guide to introductory agencies versus managed Live-in Care providers.

What is usually included within Live-in Care fees?

As above, the fees you will pay for Live-in Care will depend entirely on your own situation so you will need to discuss the specifics included with the Live-in carer or agency through which you are hiring them. However, in most cases certain things will be included within the package of fees you agree upon. This will usually be:

• The initial administration period of matching you with an appropriate carer 
• The ongoing weekly cost of the carer(s)
• The agreed upon services, such as help with personal care needs, housework, etc. (if the needs of the client change throughout the employment, the cost may be adjusted up or down depending on what is needed)
• Night care (this may be included in your package if it has been agreed up-front) 
• Certain types of equipment may be included within the package in order for the carer to do their job well, while other things may need to be sourced by you (this will be discussed and arranged beforehand) 

The carer or agency organising your care should discuss what is and is not included in advance so you understand the package of services you will receive, and any additional costs.

What is not usually included within Live-in Care fees?

Sometimes there are elements of Live-in Care that must be covered by the client, as not everything will come included as part of the package of services. These may include:

• The cost of food and other groceries for the client
• Additional food costs for the carer’s meals (these may be somewhere in the region of £5 per day) 
• A travel allowance so the carer can take the client to appointments, activities or social events 
• Any increase in energy prices (such as electricity or water bills) must be covered by the client 
• Any additional equipment needed in order for the carer to do their job well, such as cleaning supplies, gloves, etc.

• Increases to the price of your home insurance policy will remain your responsibility
• Any additional safety equipment that the agency deems necessary for the carer to move into the home, such as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Potentially higher cost for overnight care if the client requires help during the night, such as medical care or help getting to the bathroom (again, these can be included as part of a package of services if agreed in advance) 
• The cost of covering carers breaks if the client cannot be left alone, such as an additional hourly rate for a replacement carer (hourly rates can vary from around £20-35 per hour depending on your provider) 

Home care agencies and carers should be up-front and honest about what is and is not included in the cost of your Live-in Care so you never need to worry about surprise bills or additional fees. 

Is home care more affordable than a care home? 

Live-in Care can sometimes work out to be a more affordable alternative to moving into a care home. According to Age UK, a place in a care or nursing home can cost on average between £800 and £1,078 per week depending on where you are in the country, and although the weekly cost of Live-in Care can sometimes be more expensive than this, it does mean you are only paying for the care you need instead of paying for a full list of services that may not be applicable to your health condition. 

Also, with a care home you would be paying for a place year-round, whereas by hiring Live-in Care live-in care at home, your family could step in to cover any gaps in care which could make it more affordable for you. 

Local councils will always aim to keep older adults living at home for as long as possible, which means Live-in Care is often looked at first before care homes. You can read more about the financial benefits of choosing home care over a care home in our guide.

Another point to consider when choosing between moving to a care home or staying in your own home is that choosing to stay at home with a Live-in carer means you would not be forced to sell your property in order to pay for your residence in a care home. 

In addition, for couples who both need care, Live-in Care can be a fantastic option. Although the cost of Live-in Care will usually be between 10 to 15% higher if the carer is looking after more than one person, this will likely be more affordable than moving two older adults into a care home or nursing home. 

How do I fund Live-in Care? 

There are several ways to pay for your Live-in Care:

1. Fully-funded, means-tested care through your local council
2. Partially-funded care from your local council which is topped up by your own savings
3. NHS funded care
4. Self-funded care 

It is always worth looking into whether or not you are eligible for support or funding from your local council. We have a whole guide on paying for your home care services which could help you find out what you may be entitled to and what the best option is for you.

Also, even if you are not entitled to fully-funded home care, you should look into the benefits you may be eligible for that could help with the cost of your home care.

How do I arrange Live-in Care for myself or a loved one?

If you are considering arranging Live-in Care, the first step to organising this is to book in a Care Needs Assessment through your local council. This is where you will be assessed to find out how much support you require, and what might be a suitable option. 

Next, your local council will create a Care Plan for you, which will include all of their recommendations for your care, and a full plan of action. It will be up to the assessor to determine what type of care you receive, and this decision will depend on your medical needs and personal circumstances, but you can request Live-in Care when they visit. 

Whether or not you involve the local council first, you can also look into private agencies who deliver home care services. If you are interested in discussing self-funded Live-in Care options, you should make a shortlist of the agencies you may be interested in and reach out to them for a discussion about the services they provide.

How Does Live-In Care Work?

The idea of Live-in Care may seem like the best option for you or your loved one, but it can be difficult to imagine the reality of what this will actually look like in day-to-day life. Will they really stay in the house 24/7? What tasks will they help with? What will they not help with? What do they do overnight? We’re answering all your burning questions about what it’s like to live at home with a Live-in carer so you can decide if it could be something you would like to explore. 

Does your carer really live with you full-time?

It can be hard to imagine someone moving into your house full-time, but many carers will do this in order to provide the very best care for the client. If you hire an agency to provide Live-in Care, this would usually involve at least 2 different carers working on a rotating shift pattern, due to the all-encompassing nature of the job. 

Your carer will integrate into your life, but they will still need time off each day, week and month. For example, one carer might stay in your home with you for 2 weeks, then take 2 weeks off while an alternative carer joins you for the next 2 weeks. At the end of 2 weeks, the original carer will return and this pattern may continue on a rotating basis. Other arrangements might be made, such as more carers or shorter shifts, but carers will still take regular breaks. 

Your carer will live with you in your home, helping with necessary care needs, tasks and chores (read more about what a carer actually does below), and also integrating into your life and routine so they can ensure you are engaging in your interests and hobbies, seeing family and friends regularly, and more. This might mean they eat meals with you, too. 

A Live-in carer will usually:

• Work with another carer to split the live-in arrangement so they can have time off each month
• Work between 8 and 10 hours a day (but be on hand during a 24-hour period for anything that comes up)
• Take a 2 hour break in each 24-hour period to rest and recharge. Breaks can be covered either by a family member or another carer
• Plan their shift patterns around your activities, daily routine and preferences to ensure you are not missing out on care needs
• Plan their breaks and shift patterns so they have time to eat meals themselves (if they prefer to), bathe, and do any other necessary daily tasks

By ensuring carers maintain a healthy work-life balance, they can continue to enjoy living in your home, and you can avoid a turnover of carers that could be disruptive to your life. 

What will a Live-in carer help with?

You are likely wondering what tasks a Live-in carer might get involved in each day. These might include things like:

• Personal care needs such as getting washed and dressed
• Monitoring medication needs and picking up prescriptions (or administering medication, depending on the type of live-in care you have) 
• Cooking, providing adequate nutritional intake, and collecting groceries 
• Keeping up with light housework chores, light gardening such as potting plants (but not ‘heavy’ tasks like mowing lawns), and feeding pets if needed  
• General companionship so you always have someone around to chat to 
• Help getting around the home, and organising travel to places in the community (your carer may drive you places) 
• Helping with administration tasks such as paying bills and correspondence 
• Waking nights, which means staying awake overnight to provide any necessary care like reaching the bathroom  

The specifics of what each carer does will depend on your personal needs and health conditions, so this will look different for everyone. You may only require companionship, personal care assistance and help attending community events, while someone else might need their medication managed, overnight care, and specific help for their health conditions. Your bespoke care plan will be arranged according to your needs before your carer moves into your home, and can be updated as you both settle into the arrangement. 

What will a carer not help with?

When someone lives with you, it is easy for the lines between carer and friend to become blurred, so having a conversation in the beginning to establish what a carer will and won’t do can be helpful so both parties know where they stand, and everyone feels comfortable with the arrangement. 

A few things a carer may not do (or may not be allowed to do) include: 

• Deal directly with your finances, for their own protection (this will be the responsibility of your power of attorney)
• Work a 24-hour shift without breaks or support 
• Administer medication unless they are trained and competent to do so. They may instead be in charge of managing medication schedules, reminding you to take your own medication, or coordinating community nurses and other healthcare workers who can administer your medication 
• Move you around without the appropriate equipment or help, for your own safety and theirs 
• Smoke or drink alcohol within your home, unless you give them permission to do so 
• Invite people you do not know into your home
• Help themselves to your food or make phone calls from your home without your permission 
• Cook for other members of your family or friends who visit 
• Accept gifts or money from you 
• Be a witness for any legal documents, for their own legal protection 

If you have any questions or concerns about what your carer will not do while living with you, you can speak to the agency providing their services and ask them to clarify exactly what will and will not happen during their shifts. 

How should I interact with my carer?

It is important to remember that Live-in Care is a very different type of job than most people do, so your carer will spend a lot more time with their client, and be asked to do more personal things than most jobs would entail. Developing a close bond with your carer is encouraged, especially if your primary reason for hiring them is to have companionship. 

A good agency will take great care in matching their carers and clients to ensure the person coming into your home every day blends well with your life, routine, interests, and personality. This can enable a successful long-term Live-in Care relationship. 

At the end of the day, you can treat your carer as a friend and confide in them how you are feeling, but always keep in mind that carers should be treated with respect at all times, as this is their everyday job. Your home is your home, but it is also their workplace, and they should feel comfortable living there with you. 

What if I don’t get along with/have an issue with my Live-in carer?

Many older people worry that they will start a contract with a Live-in Care service and be tied to receiving care from someone they do not like, or in some cases, do not trust or feel comfortable around. 

Make sure your carer is held to a high professional standard, and choose an agency that works hard to ensure they match clients with the best carer for their needs and character. A good care professional will have had a background check, industry-leading training to ensure they are knowledgeable on your exact situation, and will have undergone the appropriate courses – for example, moving and handling, City & Guilds assured dementia training, and any other relevant education. 

If you require a Live-in carer with certain experience or specialist training, make sure they have the qualifications and experience needed to provide you with the best care. You should get matched with a carer who shares and respects your interests, who drives if you need to get around within your community, who is happy being around pets if you have any, and more. You should also be able decide if you would like a male or female carer, so you feel entirely comfortable with the arrangement. 

“I feel happy all the time in my work. The relationships that you get to build with clients are special and even after a tough day I go home smiling.” 

– Lindsay, Home Instead Care Professional

Can I accommodate a Live-in carer?

If you are wondering whether or not your home is suitable for a Live-in carer, there are a few checkboxes you should make sure you can tick before you start the process. Some things you will need to provide for your carer include: 

• Comfortable, clean and tidy surroundings – If you are struggling with this, you can ask your family to help get your home in ship shape before your Live-in carer starts, or discuss this with the agency before they commence work as they may be able to arrange for some housework to kick-off your arrangement
• A private bedroom – This does not need to be big or fancy, just as long as it is clean, comfortable, heated, and has a bed and some storage for their things
• Internet access – Your Live-in carer needs to be able to manage their work administration which is often done online, so internet access will be required 
• Equipment – This could be anything your carer needs to do their job well, such as hoists, cleaning supplies, gloves, and so on.  Keep in mind that PPE is usually supplied by the agency
• Updates to your home insurance policy – You may need to ensure this covers your Live-in carer for any accidents, damage or loss if necessary – if you are unsure whether or not you need to do this, you can discuss it with your agency before commencement of your carer’s duties 
• Safety equipment – The agency may do a check of your home first to make sure it is appropriate for a Live-in carer to move into, and will also check for safety elements, such as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Your Live-in carer will only require simple lodgings, so you don’t need to worry about making your home feel like a hotel for them. As long as the home is comfortable so they can relax and recharge regularly to provide you with the best care. 

What about at night? Will I still be looked after? 

If you have had a Care Needs Assessment which has recommended you receive overnight care, you may have a separate carer visit at night for a waking nights service, or your Live-in carer may take on some of these duties too. If you are worried about emergencies at night, needing help getting to the bathroom or getting a drink in the early hours, you can discuss these worries with the agency and ensure your Live-in carer has the appropriate schedule to assist whenever you think they will be needed. 

If your carer is not getting an adequate amount of sleep during the night, they may suggest a different arrangement such as another carer taking shifts alongside their own to ensure all carers get the rest they need to perform at their best each day.

What conversations should I have with my loved one if I am arranging Live-in Care?

If you are considering hiring a Live-in carer for an older loved one, it can help to have a conversation with them before their Live-in carer starts work, in order to establish exactly what they would like to happen and any worries they may have. This way you can iron out any issues and establish boundaries with the carer from day one. 

You should also consider encouraging your loved one to maintain their independence as much as possible, and not rely on their Live-in carer for everything simply because they are around. Identify what things your relative can still do well and safely on their own, and let their carer know that they should continue to do these things until such times as they can no longer manage. 

More Live-in Care resources

• Getting help at home from a paid carer, information from the NHS
• Care & support for the elderly, at Age UK
• Live-in Care at the UK Care Guide
• Live-in Care guide at Care Choices