It is one of the hardest decisions a family faces. There is no single right answer, but asking the right questions makes it clearer.
What does the person want?
Most people prefer to stay at home. Their wishes should carry great weight, and if they have capacity, the decision is theirs.
How much support is needed, and when?
Home care works well for help at set times of day: getting up, meals, medication, personal care and going to bed. If someone needs help unpredictably through the night, or constant supervision, a care home or live-in care may be safer.
Is the home safe?
Stairs, bathrooms and access matter. Adaptations such as grab rails, a stairlift or a key safe can make home care workable for much longer.
What about loneliness?
For some people a care home offers company they no longer have at home. For others, regular visits from familiar care workers and a day centre are enough.
How do the costs compare?
For a few visits a day, home care usually costs less than a care home. As hours increase, the difference narrows.
Consider live-in and overnight options
Between a few visits a day and a care home there are other options, such as longer visits, overnight support or live-in care. These can suit people who need more help but want to stay at home.
Involve professionals
A GP, occupational therapist or social worker can help you understand risks and options. An occupational therapist can also recommend equipment that makes home safer.
Plan for change
Whatever you choose now, needs may change. Agree a review date and talk openly as a family about what would prompt a different decision.
Frequently asked questions
Can we try home care first?
Yes. Many families start with home care and review it after a few months.
Does home care include medication?
Our care workers can prompt or administer medication as set out in the care plan.
Not sure what is right? Book a free assessment and we will talk it through with you.
