Live-in care: what you need to know

Live-in care is an increasingly popular solution for families looking to ensure their loved ones receive the best care without leaving the comfort of their own home.

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Whether it’s for an elderly relative, someone with a chronic illness, or a person with disabilities, live-in care offers a personalised approach that fosters independence and dignity.

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In this article, we’ll explore what live-in care entails, the benefits it offers, and how to arrange it. We’ll also cover the cost considerations and who can benefit from this service in the UK.

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What is live-in care?

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Live-in care refers to a type of domiciliary care where a professional carer resides in the client’s home, providing round-the-clock assistance. The carer is available to help with daily tasks such as personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication management, and mobility support, while also offering companionship.

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The main advantage of live-in care is that it allows individuals to remain in their own homes, surrounded by familiar environments and routines, which can be especially beneficial for those with conditions like dementia. Our research at Birdie last year found that 69% of people aged 65 and over intend to age at home, compared to only 42% who would consider moving to a care home (Living in an ageing society: a generational study of how the UK prepares to get older, 2023).

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Unlike visiting care, where carers come at scheduled times throughout the day, live-in carers are present full-time. This ensures that clients receive immediate help when needed, which can be vital for people with complex or unpredictable health needs. Live-in care also provides continuity, as clients often have the same carer for an extended period, helping to build a strong, trusting relationship.

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It's not easy being a homecare provider! Long hours, situations change quickly and people need your support every moment of the day. We asked the team at Walfinch Mansfield why they feel so supported by Birdie - and what kind of difference that makes to their day:

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What are the benefits of live-in care?

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There are numerous benefits to opting for live-in care, many of which enhance the quality of life for both the client and their family. Here are some key advantages:

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1. Independence and comfort

One of the main reasons families choose live-in care is that it allows clients to stay in their own homes, maintaining their independence. Remaining in a familiar setting can help reduce confusion and anxiety, especially for individuals living with cognitive impairments such as dementia. Clients are also able to stick to their routines, eat their preferred meals, and enjoy their hobbies without having to adapt to a new environment.

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2. Personalised care

Unlike in a residential care home, live-in care is tailored specifically to the individual’s needs. Carers are able to provide one-to-one attention, adjusting care plans as circumstances change. Whether it’s providing assistance with daily living tasks or managing complex health needs, live-in care offers a personalised approach that ensures every client’s unique requirements are met.

Read more about personalised care plans and the care planning cycle here >>

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3. Companionship

Isolation can be a significant issue for elderly individuals or those with disabilities. Live-in care offers not only physical assistance but also emotional support. A live-in carer provides companionship, helping to reduce loneliness and improving the client’s overall well-being. Having someone around for regular conversation or shared activities can have a profound positive impact on mental health.

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4. Peace of mind for families

Live-in care provides peace of mind for family members who may be worried about their loved one’s well-being. Knowing that a professional carer is present 24/7 can relieve the stress of family carers, allowing them to focus on their own responsibilities while being reassured that their relative is safe and well cared for.

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5. Fewer hospital admissions

With live-in care, clients are often able to avoid unnecessary hospital visits or stays in care homes. Having professional assistance on hand helps prevent accidents like falls, ensures medications are taken correctly, and facilitates early intervention if a health issue arises. This kind of proactive care can significantly reduce hospital admissions, as the carer can spot signs of health deterioration early on.

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Read also - Social care reform: 7 practical steps to fix the UK system

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How to arrange live-in care

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Arranging live-in care in the UK is a straightforward process but requires careful consideration to ensure the right support is in place.

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Here’s a guide to help families navigate the process:

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The first step is to assess the specific needs of the person requiring care. This may involve discussing with a GP or healthcare professional, especially if the individual has medical or mobility issues. Determining the level of care needed—whether it’s support with daily activities or more complex medical assistance—will help in choosing the right live-in carer. Find out more about getting a care needs assessment here >>

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Once the needs are clear, the next step is to find a reputable care provider that specialises in live-in care. It’s important to research different providers, read reviews, and consider the range of services they offer. Many care providers offer a free assessment, which can help families better understand the type of care required. Ensure that the provider is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in England, which guarantees a certain level of service and safety standards.

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Once a provider has been chosen, a personalised care plan will be drawn up. This plan will outline the specific tasks the live-in carer will perform, including personal care, medication administration, meal preparation, and any social or emotional support required. The care plan can be adjusted as the client’s needs evolve over time.

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Many care providers arrange for families to meet the potential live-in carer before the service begins. This allows the client and their family to assess compatibility and build a rapport, ensuring that the carer fits well within the household.

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Ongoing care should be regularly reviewed to ensure it remains appropriate for the client’s needs. Many providers will schedule regular check-ins to assess the effectiveness of the care and make any necessary adjustments.

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How much does live-in care cost?

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The cost of live-in care can vary depending on the complexity of care required and the care provider chosen. In the UK, live-in care typically costs between £900 and £1,400 per week. For individuals with more complex needs, such as those requiring specialist medical care, costs may be higher.

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While live-in care may seem expensive, it is similar to that cost of residential care. However, with live-in care it’s worth considering that it provides one-to-one care, something that’s often not possible in care homes. Furthermore, the costs include not only the carer’s wage but also accommodation, food, and other associated expenses.

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In some cases, families may be eligible for financial support to cover the cost of care. This could include local authority funding or benefits such as Attendance Allowance or Carer’s Allowance. It’s advisable to speak with a financial advisor or a social worker to explore funding options.

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Who can benefit from live-in care?

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Live-in care is suitable for a wide range of individuals with varying needs. Some of the people who may benefit include:

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1. Elderly individuals

Many older adults prefer live-in care to residential homes as it allows them to maintain their independence while receiving the help they need. This is particularly beneficial for those with mobility issues or health conditions such as arthritis or dementia.

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2. People with disabilities

For individuals with physical or learning disabilities, live-in care provides tailored support that helps them maintain their quality of life. Carers can assist with daily tasks, mobility, and communication, allowing clients to live as independently as possible.

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3. Individuals recovering from illness or surgery

People who have undergone surgery or are recovering from a serious illness may require temporary live-in care to assist with their recovery. A live-in carer can provide the necessary support until the client regains their full strength.

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4. Those with long-term health conditions

Live-in care is also suitable for individuals with long-term health conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or other chronic illnesses. Carers can provide specialist support, ensuring that clients receive the right level of care.

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Find out how the Astute Homecare team spends more quality time with clients and less time on administrative tasks with Birdie, have a read of their story here.

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Live-in care is a flexible, personalised solution for individuals who wish to remain in the comfort of their own homes while receiving professional care. With its wide range of benefits, including independence, companionship, and peace of mind, it’s an option worth considering for many families in the UK.

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By assessing needs, choosing the right care provider, and planning ahead, live-in care can greatly enhance the quality of life for both clients and their loved ones.

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Birdie offers all-in-one homecare technology, supporting providers of all sizes with the entire care journey, from care management and quality auditing to rostering, finance, and analytics. Let's chat about how Birdie can help you and your business.

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