What Is Live-In Home Care?

Live-in home care is a form of assistance which involves a caregiver staying in the client's home to provide constant assistance and support. This form of home care targets individuals who require 24/7 support either because of aging, disability, or chronic illness, such as dementia, Parkinson’s and ALS. In this article, we will discuss the specifics of live-in home care.

Services Provided By Live-in Caregiver

Live-in caregiver provides assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) and health-related needs.

1. Personal Care: They can provide help with washing, grooming, and dressing, and other activities that are necessary to maintain personal hygiene.
2. Help With Chores: Live-in caretakers often help with cleaning, duties around the house, laundry, and other activities that help to maintain a clean living environment.
3. Meal Services: They can provide food by cooking for the individual or delivering meals that contain proper nutrients for their well-being.
4. Healthcare Services: Live-in care can include medical services such as medication management, wound care, and other responsibilities.
5. Financial Management: They can provide help with filling out paperwork and making sure that bills are paid on time.
6. Mobility Assistance:  They provide help moving around, especially for patients who are bedbound or have limited mobility.  
7. Companionship: They offer company to reduce the feelings of loneliness by engaging in activities and discussion.
8. Transportation: They can offer transportation to appointments, social gatherings, and other events that help to preserve a good quality of life.
9. Ensuring Safety: Caregivers also prevent and monitor any changes in the patient’s condition, and assess safety hazards within their own house to prevent falls and slips. 

What Are The Advantages of Live-In Home Care?

Live-in home care has a number of advantages:

• Familiar Environment: This service allows the patients to stay comfortable in their own homes.
• Personalized Care: Assistance is tailored to the specific needs of the patients. This is crucial for managing challenging disorders that come with distinct challenges, like ALS.
• Maintaining Independence: With this kind of treatment, the patient's independence and control over their life are maintained.  
• Safety: Patients are less likely to get injured since they are under constant supervision.
• Decreasing Stress On Family Members: Family members may feel at peace knowing their loved one is safe and well.
• Cost-Effectiveness: The service can be more affordable than certain residential care facilities. You can check the average costs of different services for the state of Massachusetts here. 

Comparing Live-in Home Care And Other Caregiving Options

Live-In Home Care vs. Hourly Home Care: Hourly care is only available during certain hours that are suitable for patients with little assistance needs. It is not intended for individuals who need continuous supervision.

Assisted Living vs. Live-In Home Care: Assisted living involves moving into a facility with other people and setting schedules, whereas live-in care keeps individuals in the comfort of their own homes and provides individualized care which is focused only on them.

Nursing Homes vs. Live-In Home Care: Nursing homes provide intensive medical care although typically at a higher expense. They still involve moving out into a facility.

Adult Day Care vs. Live-In Home Care: Adult day care clients return home in the evening after receiving care and socialization throughout the day. On the other hand live-in care offers constant assistance.

The choice is based on the amount of care needed, as well as personal and financial factors. Each option meets a variety of needs and preferences.

For a lot of people who need help but still want to be independent, live-in home care is a practical and a better option. It is essential to carefully assess the patient's needs, consider all available options, and make sure the caregiver and the patient receiving care are a good fit, to get the most out of this caregiving option. When implemented properly, live-in home care can increase the standard of living for individuals who require it.

Credits:
Understanding Differences Between PCAs, HHAs and CNAs
Live-in Care vs Other Types of Care: What Are the Key Benefits?
Home Care Services