We explore the difference between live-in disability care and home care. Learn about care plans, the impact on quality of life, and how each option can cater to different levels of need and independence. 

How is live-in disability care different from home care?

Live-in disability care and home care are two methods of care provision, both of which exhibit similarities but also notable differences. The main contrast arises from the degree of support offered and the living arrangements. Home care, as the name indicates, comprises experienced carers visiting the homes of individuals who require assistance.

This support touches numerous aspects of daily living, and the services are typically provided for a few hours every day, depending on the individual's care needs. Home care providers assist with various tasks such as meal preparation, personal care, medication reminders and household chores.

Alternatively, live-in disability care provides comprehensive, 24-hour service seven days a week. A live-in carer resides in the individual's abode, offering constant assistance tailored to meet their needs throughout daylight and night hours alike.

Essentially, a live-in carer serves as a round-the-clock home care service. Their presence ensures continuous supervision, nurturing an environment that promotes a higher level of independence for the care recipient.

The principal difference between these two is that home care services can occasionally leave some people, particularly those who confront challenges or risks throughout their day, with insufficient supervision. Live-in disability care, however, addresses this issue, making it the preferred option for constant, committed support. This undivided attention aids in creating an environment of safety and security, enhancing the overall quality of care provided.

They receive bespoke care, tailored to their individual needs and preferences that addresses all facets of their life with delicate consideration.

Family members who find the provision of the necessary degree of care demanding also stand to benefit from appointing a live-in carer. This kind of care ushers in peace of mind. There is reassurance in the knowledge that a loved one is being taken care of uninterruptedly. This means family members are freed up to pursue their lives, relieved of constant worry.

Live-in disability care demonstrates its viability whether it is to manage complex medical necessities, provide companionship or ensure the safety of a loved one at home. Becoming aware that a family member is not just safe but also companionable is invaluable.

The services provided by live-in carers are often diverse and include supervision of medication, personal care like bathing and dressing, cooking and light housekeeping. Where a loved one requires constant care, being able to have a dedicated carer at home allows family members to have a respite while knowing their loved one’s needs are being met.

They offer professional assistance and companionship, ensuring that every individual feels valued, respected and cared for. The range of people who can take advantage of live-in disability care is diverse, extending from young people with disabilities to older persons requiring palliative care. It offers a versatile and beneficial choice of care for any person who needs continuous or complex care. Ultimately, turning to live-in disability care becomes a viable and fruitful care choice. By offering professional care and constant companionship, they improve the quality of life for those in need and provide peace of mind to their family.

Is live-in disability care more expensive than a nursing home?

You might assume that live-in disability care would be costly given its comprehensive nature. However, you might be surprised to learn that this is often not the case. The price of a live-in carer is frequently found to be on par with or even less expensive than nursing home fees.

At first glance, nursing homes might seem like a more cost-effective option when considering care alternatives. However, upon closer inspection, you'll often find that nursing homes come with additional fees that can swiftly escalate the overall expense. Additionally, the level of personalised attention offered by live-in care is truly unparalleled.

Honestly, it's difficult to place a monetary value on this kind of care. The convenience, recognisable surroundings, and independence that individuals receive from being in their own homes can greatly aid their overall well-being. Through this, live-in care doesn't just provide for physical needs.

Instead, it looks after psychological and emotional health as well, creating a level of comfort that brings peace of mind to both the person being cared for and their loved ones. So, when you weigh up the advantages of live-in care against the potential hidden costs of nursing homes, you may find that it's not just a financially sound choice, but a wholesome one for the individual's overall health too.

Can a live-in carer be arranged for a short period?

Definitely, a live-in carer can be set up for both long-haul and short-haul requirements. Depending on the needs of the person, their family, or their main carers, live-in care can be sorted out for a few weeks or just for a couple of days. For instance, families that need temporary coverage because of holiday respite, the absence of a family member, or transition care following a stay in the hospital, can also profit from live-in care.

Thanks to this flexibility, families have additional peace of mind knowing their loved one's care needs are not compromisable. Essentially, live-in care can provide a worthy solution for temporary care situations where the usual primary carers are unable to fulfil their regular duties.

In addition to providing physical care and support, having a live-in carer can also cater for the individual's emotional and social needs.

Especially in cases where the individual may feel lonely or isolated, having someone residing with them can provide much-needed company and emotional support for them. Moreover, these arrangements can be planned and organised to perfectly fit individual care requirements, making sure that the person receiving care gets the most ideal structure for their needs.

In addition to this, live-in disability carers are proficient in administering prescribed medication. This is crucial in regularly maintaining the health of the individual in their care. They can also conduct physiotherapy exercises which help individuals with mobility issues improve their flexibility, strength, and overall physical health.

Apart from offering medical assistance, a live-in carer also performs household chores. They ensure a clean and organised environment by undertaking tasks such as meal preparation and housekeeping. In essence, they act as a facilitator in making the day-to-day life of the person in their care, easy and convenient.

One other fundamental aspect of live-in care is providing emotional support and companionship to the individual. They engage them in social activities, accompany them on outings, and provide company in the home.

These actions combat feelings of loneliness, isolation, and depression that individuals with disabilities sometimes grapple with. Regular communication with the family members is also part of the carer’s duties. They provide updates about the individual's health, share relevant information, and collaborate to ensure that the loved one's well-being is optimally maintained.

Another major advantage of live-in care is the amplified level of safety it provides. With someone present in the house round-the-clock, emergencies can be managed immediately and effectively. This further helps in reducing any potential harm to the individual.

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We offer specialist home care services and physical disability care for vulnerable adults throughout London. Get in contact today if you have a loved one that would benefit from care at home.