As our loved ones age, they may require additional support and care. Whether it’s assistance with daily tasks or medical needs, it can be a challenging time for everyone involved. Many families choose to enlist the help of professional caregivers to provide the necessary support for their loved ones. While there are many different types of care options available, live-in care services are becoming increasingly popular. With an online search, you can find many local live-in carer companies right now.
What is a Live-In Carer?
A live-in carer is a professional caregiver who provides around-the-clock care and support to an individual in their own home. The caregiver typically lives in the same residence as the person they are caring for, and provides personalized care tailored to their unique needs. This can include assistance with activities of daily living, medication management, mobility support, and companionship. Live-in carers can also provide respite care for family members or other primary caregivers, giving them a much-needed break from their responsibilities.
At-Home Care vs. Live-In Care
At-home care and live-in care are two different types of professional caregiving services available to seniors. At-home care typically involves a caregiver coming to the senior’s home for a certain number of hours per day, providing assistance with tasks.
In contrast, a live-in carer is a dedicated caregiver who lives in the senior’s home and provides round-the-clock comprehensive care and support. Ultimately, the decision between at-home care and live-in care depends on the individual needs of the senior and their family, as well as their budget and other factors.
The Benefits of a Live-In Carer
There are many benefits to having a full-time, live-in carer for both the individual receiving the care and their family members. These include:
1. Companionship
According to the National Institute on Aging, loneliness can lead to an increased risk of depression, cognitive decline, and mortality. By choosing a live-in care service, your loved one will have a companion who will be there to provide emotional support and friendship. Having someone to talk to, share meals with, and engage in activities with can make a huge difference in overall quality of life.
2. Individualized Care
With a live-in carer, your loved one will receive personalized care that is tailored to their unique needs. A caregiver will be there 24/7, ensuring that your loved one receives consistent and comprehensive care. Whether it’s medication management, assistance with personal care, or mobility support, the caregiver will be there to provide the necessary support.
3. Home Environment
According to AARP, over 80% of seniors prefer to age in place in their own homes. With a live-in carer, your loved one can remain in the comfort of their own home while still receiving the necessary care and support. This can be especially beneficial for those who have dementia or other cognitive impairments, as staying in a familiar environment can reduce confusion and stress.
4. Peace of Mind
When you entrust the care of your loved one to a professional caregiver, you can have peace of mind knowing that they are in good hands. With a live-in carer, you can rest assured that your loved one is receiving consistent and reliable care. This can reduce stress and anxiety for both you and your loved one, allowing you to focus on your relationship instead of worrying about their care needs.
5. Flexibility
With a live-in carer, you have more flexibility when it comes to scheduling and care needs. You can work with the caregiver to develop a personalized care plan that meets your loved one’s specific needs. Additionally, you can make adjustments to the care plan as needed, allowing you to adapt to changing circumstances and needs.
Cost of Live-In Care
Your loved one receives one-on-one attention with this type of care, which comes at a price. The cost of live-in care in the U.S. varies widely depending on the location and the specific needs of the individual. On average, live-in care costs about $400 per day or between $12,000 and $16,000 per month, with higher costs in metropolitan areas. For some, this unfortunately makes live-in care unaffordable. Luckily, there are a variety of other options for senior living, which you can learn about with an online search.
Consider Your Options
Choosing a live-in care service can provide numerous benefits for both you and your loved one. From companionship and individualized care to cost-effectiveness and peace of mind, live-in care services can be a great option for those who want to age in place in their own homes. If you’re considering professional care for your loved one, search online to explore all of your local options and choose the one that’s right for your family.