Residential and Live-In Care Guide
In this guide, we’ll cover all you need to know about residential and live-in care. We’ll explain what it is and how they both work. We’ll outline the pros and cons of each. And we will explain how to get either option. By the end, you should know whether residential or live-in is the right option for you.
What are residential and live-in care?
Residential and live-in care both provide 24/7 support. Residential care happens in a residential setting. While live-in care happens in the person’s own home.
When to choose residential or live-in care?
It may not be easy to come to terms with the idea that you or a loved one may need 24/7 support. However, there might come a time to consider these options. You’ll know when the time is right. Exploring these options can help you find the right support, at the right time.
Signs the time might be right...
Frequent health concerns
A higher level of care may be necessary if:
• Medical conditions are worsening.
• You're dealing with more frequent hospital visits.
Increasing difficulty with daily tasks
It might be time to think about extra support if you or your loved one struggle with tasks like:
• Bathing
• Dressing
• Cooking
• Cleaning
Increasing isolation
If you or a loved one feel lonely or isolated, it may be time for more support. Live-in and residential care provide:
• Companionship
• Social activities
• A sense of community.
This can boost wellbeing and enhance quality of life.
Residential Care
Types of Residential Settings
There are several types of residential settings. Each one offers different levels of support. Each one is right for different people.
Assisted Living
Residents live in their own apartments. They have access to help with daily tasks, such as cooking and personal care.
Offers a mix of independence and support.
They have shared areas. People use these for socializing and activities. This helps the residents stay active and social.
Supported Living
The person recieving care lives with their carer. Either in their own home or in shared housing.
Made for people with specific health needs or a disability.
Provides a tailored approach. People often rent their own space and receive support.
Residential Homes
Fully-staffed home that accommodates many residents.
Residents usually require more formal day-to-day care. But do not need ongoing clinical care.
Does not offer the same level of independence as some other options.
Staff provide meals and assist with personal care. They plan activities for residents. They also provide general support.
Staff do not provide clinical care.
Nursing Homes
Fully-staffed home that accommodates many residents.
Residents usually have complex health conditions. Staff monitor their health.
Staff include trained nurses.
Staff provide meals and assist with personal care. They plan activities for residents. They also provide general support.
Staff do not provide clinical care.
Pros and cons of residential care
It’s important to weigh out the pros and cons to decide if residential care is right for you.
Pros
Social Interaction
Being around other residents provides opportunities to:
• Form friendships
• Combat loneliness
Activities and events
Care homes offer a range of activities and events. Keeping the residents:
• Active
• Entertained
• Engaged with others
Safe and structured living
Residential care has 24/7 support and a consistent routine. Which can offer comfort and peace of mind.
Cons
Less independence
The shared routines and schedules lack flexibility. This can feel restrictive to some people. Especially when compared to living independently.
May not feel like home
Care homes can feel institutional. They can lack the personal touches of your own home.
Emotional adjustment
Moving away from your home and community can be a difficult. Sometimes the transition can be emotional.
Live-In Care
What is live-in care?
With live-in care, a professional carer (or carers) move into your home. They assist with all daily activities, when the person wants to do them. This include:
Dressing
Bathing
Meal preperation
Getting out to apppointment
Attending activities
Who is live-in care be suitable for?
Live-in care might be a good option for people who:
Want to stay in their own home.
Need 24/7 support.
Getting out to apppointment
Attending activities
What does live-care look like?
24/7 care
Care is available 24/7. Carers usually rotate shifts for ongoing support.
Stay in your own home
You can stay in your own home. This is beneficial in many ways. Familiarity is particularly important with certain conditions. Such as dementia.
Tailored support
The level of care is tailored to the person's needs. It can range from companionship to complex care.
Pros and cons of live-in care
It’s important to weigh out the pros and cons to decide if residential care is right for you.
Pros
Stay in your own home
Live-in care lets you stay in a place you know well, with support available when you need it.
Greater independence
You get more say in how and when your care is provided. This means you can keep your daily routines and change things if you want to.
Comfort and familiar surroundings
Being in your own home offers a sense of security and comfort that can be reassuring.
Cons
Higher costs
Live-in care can cost more than residential care. Although it may be fully funded if it is considered suitable. Cornwall Council will assess you to see if:
• You need this level of support.
• Remaining at home is the most suitable option for you.
Space requirements
You’ll need a spare bedroom and the ability to accommodate a carer living in your home.
Possible home adjustments
You may need to make changes to your home to ensure it’s safe and suitable for delivering care.
Supportmatch Homeshare: A Flexible Alternative
This scheme is perfect for people who don’t need 24/7 support. You will be paired with someone who will move into your home. They will provide companionship and light support. You will give them with affordable housing in return.
I think home care is right for me, what are the next steps?
To get funding, you need to speak with Cornwall Council. They will assess your needs and finances to see if you qualify for care and support. If you do qualify, you can choose to get this as residential or live-in care.
Start the process by...
Requesting a Needs Assessment
To request a needs assessment, follow the link below and complete the form.
Checking your Financial Eligibility
Find out if you’re likely to meet the financial criteria. Use the Council’s eligibility checker.
Explore other budget options...
Direct Payment Guide
Get full choice and control with a Direct Payment! You get the money directly into your bank account. And you take full control over arranging and paying for your own support.
Individual Service Fund Guide
You stay in control of your support decisions without the admin! You choose an organization to manage your budget and the support you get.
Home Care Guide
Use your budget to access domiciliary care. A professional will help with everyday tasks in your own home. This could be anything from cooking to personal care.
