Finding the right care for an elderly family member can feel overwhelming. You want them to be safe, comfortable, and well cared for, but also to maintain their independence and stay in familiar surroundings. That’s why live-in care is such a fantastic option—it provides round-the-clock support while allowing them to continue living in their own home.
At In Home Care, we know how important it is to find the right care solution for your loved one. If you’re wondering whether live-in care is the best choice, let’s walk through everything you need to know.
When Is Live-In Care Needed?
Live-in care is ideal when daily tasks start becoming difficult and extra support is needed to maintain safety, well-being, and quality of life. It’s particularly beneficial for those who:
Have mobility issues and are at risk of falls
Struggle with personal care, such as washing and dressing
Live with dementia or memory loss and need consistent support
Need companionship to prevent loneliness
Have complex medical needs requiring monitoring and assistance
If your loved one is facing any of these challenges, live-in care can offer a reassuring solution that keeps them comfortable and independent at home.
What Does a Live-In Carer Do?
A live-in carer stays in the home and provides personalised support tailored to the individual’s routine and lifestyle. Their role typically includes:
- Personal care – Assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting
- Meal preparation – Cooking nutritious meals and ensuring regular hydration
- Medication support – Reminders and help with taking prescriptions on time
- Household tasks – Light cleaning, laundry, and keeping the home safe and tidy
- Companionship – Providing friendly conversation and emotional support
- Mobility assistance – Helping with walking, using mobility aids, and trips out
Each person’s care plan is completely tailored to their needs, preferences, and daily routine. The goal is to support independence while ensuring they have everything they need to feel comfortable and secure.
How to Find the Right Live-In Carer
When choosing live-in care, finding the right carer is key. Here are the main options:
Care Agencies – Agencies like InHomeCare provide fully trained, vetted carers and handle everything from payroll to schedules, giving you peace of mind.
Hiring Privately – You can hire a carer yourself, but this means managing contracts, wages, and legal responsibilities independently.
Local Council & Charities – Some councils and organisations provide guidance, referrals, or financial support for those who qualify.
It’s important to assess experience, qualifications, and personality to ensure the carer is a great fit for your loved one’s needs and lifestyle.
How Much Does Live-In Care Cost?
The cost of live-in care varies depending on location, care level, and provider, but there are different ways to fund care:
- Local Council Funding – If your loved one qualifies after a means test, they may receive financial support.
- NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) – If they have complex medical needs, they may get full funding.
- Self-Funding – Many families cover costs through savings, pensions, or property assets.
- Direct Payments & Personal Budgets – If eligible, your loved one may receive funding to arrange their own care.
If you’re unsure about affordability or funding options, our team at InHomeCare can help you explore what’s available.
Making the Transition to Live-In Care
Adjusting to live-in care takes time, but there are steps to make the transition smoother:
Set Up Their Space – Ensure the carer has a comfortable room and any necessary care equipment.
Establish a Routine – Having a clear schedule helps everyone feel settled.
Keep Communication Open – Regular check-ins with the carer and family ensure everything is working well.
Once care begins, it’s important to monitor progress, make adjustments when needed, and ensure your loved one is happy and comfortable.
How We Can Help
At In Home Care, we provide high-quality live-in care services across Horndean, Cheshire & St Helens, Woodford & Loughton, Basingstoke, Chelmsford & Ipswich, Fareham & Portsmouth, Haslemere, and Chichester.
If you’re considering live-in care, we’re here to guide you through the process and help you find the right carer for your loved one.Give us a call today to chat about your needs—we’re always happy to help!
