A range of types of elderly care are available – the main options are generally to either move in with family, move into a care home, or opt for a live-in carer. Each of these options has its own advantages and features that need to be considered, in light of every individual’s own care needs and circumstances.
Living with family has obvious benefits. Family members have a prior understanding of the needs and interests of those they care for, as well as a close personal connection which helps them to empathise and offer support. However, whilst they can offer love and comfort, family members rarely have the specialist training or time needed to offer the highest level of care to elderly relatives, which often leads to the need for external assistance.
For people who have specific needs or require round the clock care, care homes are sometimes thought to be the only solution. Whilst care homes do boast specialist facilities, the downside is that moving to a care home means leaving behind friends, family and the familiar surroundings of one’s home – a place that is full of many treasured memories. The upheaval of moving out of the home that you may have been in for many years can be very stressful and upsetting for all concerned.
Live in care offers a real alternative to residential care and has many compelling benefits . A highly trained professional carer can provide quality, one-to-one consistent care that meets the precise needs of the individual, something that is not easily achieved in a care home. By carefully matching carers to clients, it is possible to build a long-term relationship between the two individuals, so that a familiar face will always be on hand to give the help and support as necessary to achieve a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle. Couples can also receive care together in their own home, reducing the burden on caring for each other.