Benefits of In-Home Care over a Nursing Home

One of the most common questions we receive at We Care Together is about the benefits of in-home care compared to residential nursing homes. This is a significant decision that can greatly affect your loved one’s quality of life.

Here are some key reasons to consider in-home care over a nursing home:

Change is Tough

The most significant advantage of in-home care is that it allows the individual to stay in their familiar and comfortable environment. There’s no stress of relocation, and their home, filled with cherished memories, can help alleviate stress. This is particularly true for those suffering from Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

A New Friend

We often see the caregiver and care receiver’s relationship evolve beyond the practical. As they spend personal, one-on-one time together, this often leads to a friendship that can significantly improve your loved one’s quality and outlook on life. Both parties often look forward to visits as they provide individual attention and are not just seen as “one of many.”

A Sense of Independence

Admitting we need help can be challenging, especially for historically independent adults. In-home care allows your loved one to retain a great deal of their independence compared to moving to a nursing home. They can choose which tasks they want to handle themselves and which ones they need assistance with.

The Cost of Care

Depending on the level of care required, in-home care is often less expensive than a nursing home. Such facilities usually charge for an “all-encompassing service,” which means you pay for services or activities that your loved one may not need or benefit from.

The Care They Need

While care homes or assisted living facilities can offer a wide range of services, in-home care is easier to personalise. It can adapt as your loved one’s circumstances change. In-home care is an excellent choice as it focuses on the individual and can be constantly tailored to your loved one’s needs.

Stay Safe

During the Covid pandemic, it was clear that care homes were hit the hardest. Opting for home-based personal care reduces your loved one’s chances of catching a serious illness by limiting their exposure to other nursing home residents, caregivers, and staff members.

We’re not suggesting that care homes aren’t suitable for some people, but this decision should be considered in a balanced way with the alternatives. As always, We Care Together is here to provide advice and support if you’re considering care for a loved one. For more insights on in-home care, check out our other articles on our blog.