Today, many families have the ability to choose from a variety of live-in care options, giving them one of the most meaningful ways to support and look after family members with chronic or challenging health conditions. Given that this is just one type of care available, it’s important to know what live-in care is, how it works and the benefits it can offer before making a decision.
What is live in care?
Live-in care is when a care worker lives with you in your home. You may need live-in care if you’re unable to look after yourself and need help with everyday tasks, such as getting dressed or preparing meals. It can also be used to provide support for people who are recovering from illness, surgery or an accident.
Live-in care is provided by a professional care agency who will find the right person for you based on their experience and knowledge of the market. Your personal circumstances will determine what kind of live-in care service is available in your area:
When it comes to live-in care in the home this type of service may include any combination of personal assistance, domestic work, companionship/daily living activities (such as meal preparation) or nursing services. Home watch care workers usually cover all aspects of support whereas at-home nurses usually only provide nursing services.
Who is it for?
Live-in care is suitable for anyone who needs assistance with everyday tasks and activities. This includes people with chronic health conditions, such as dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s Disease and stroke. It’s also suitable for people who are recovering from illness or surgery, or those who have a disability.
What does live-in care include?
If you have a professional care worker living in your home, you can expect a range of support services. These include:
- Help with personal care, such as washing, dressing and going to the toilet
- Help with household tasks, such as cooking, cleaning and shopping
- Medication support
- Assistance with mobility
- Dementia care
- End-of-life care
What are the benefits?
It’s a good option in emergency situations
If your regular care worker is unavailable or you need a higher level of care than they can provide, live-in care can be an ideal solution. This is because you’ll have someone with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
It gives you more control over your care
When you receive live-in care, you’re in control. You can choose when and how you receive care, as well as who provides it. You’re also able to maintain your usual routines and continue living in your own home.
There’s no time limit
In most cases, you’ll have access to your care worker 24 hours a day, seven days a week, which means you can receive the level of support you need when you need it.
It’s a great alternative to institutionalisation
Many people with chronic health conditions prefer to receive their care at home. It also reduces the stress, loneliness and anxiety that may come with checking them into an institution with people they don’t know.
It can help people maintain their independence
Live-in care workers can help people with chronic health conditions to retain their independence because they’re able to provide the level of support and assistance needed, without taking away a person’s ability to do things for themselves.
It can be cost-effective
In some cases, live-in care can be more cost-effective compared to other types of care, such as aged care facilities. This is because you’re only paying for the services you need, rather than the cost of accommodation, food and other amenities. When it comes to choosing the right type of care for your loved one, just make sure you do your research and talk to a range of different service providers.
Try live-in care to help your loved ones feel happier, safer and more comfortable
We hope you’ve found this guide helpful. When it comes to live-in care, there’s always so much to consider. But ultimately, the decision comes down to what’s best for your loved one. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us – at myCare, we’re always happy to help.
