What are the Disadvantages of Live-in Care?

The main disadvantages of live-in care include the potential costliness of home modifications and fewer funding options, with the financial burden potentially reducing inheritance. Additionally, the individual may still feel lonely, and the home needs to accommodate the care worker’s space and facilities.

What is Live-In Care? The Essential Guide For 2024

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Introduction

PrimeCarers aims to help you understand the complexities and nuances surrounding long-term and live-in care. A live-in care system is one where a health professional lives with the individual needing care. This form of care is usually decided upon once the person’s care level exceeds what can be provided through home visits. To further assist you on this topic, we must also address the disadvantages of this care structure.

High Costs and Limited Funding

While live-in care provides numerous advantages, like personalised care and the comfort of staying at home, the costs can pile up. The major expenses include maintaining the carer’s space, accommodation and day-to-day care charges.

Home Modifications

Home modification costs to make it care-friendly may also add to the financial burden. Depending on the patient’s condition, modifications such as wheelchair ramps, shower safety bars, or stair lifts might be necessary.

Funding Options

Unfortunately, funding options for live-in care are less diverse than those for residential housing. While the local council can provide some funding, it is generally less for live-in care than for care homes.

Potential Isolation and Loneliness

Even though the live-in carer is present, feelings of loneliness may persist in the patient. This could arise from the lack of a friend or peer circle.

Reduced Social Interaction

Unlike communal living setups like a caregiver home, live-in care does not offer the same level of interaction with others in the same age bracket or life stage. As social interaction continues to be a crucial element of mental health as one ages, this aspect is important to consider.

Emotional Stress on Family

There’s also the emotional stress on family members who may need to be always available. This continual responsibility, in addition to regular life pressures, can place a significant burden on family relationships.

The Impact on Privacy

Privacy can be a significant concern for both the person in need and the caregiver.

Personal Space of the Care Worker

When the carer literally lives within the patient’s personal space, they may feel their regular life is significantly impacted. The carer needs a separate bedroom, they have rights to regular breaks, and they need personal space for relaxation during ‘off-work’ hours.

Patient’s Privacy

Comparably, the patient may feel their privacy is always invaded. Having another person in the house and always having to rely on them for personal needs can affect how comfortable they feel in their home.

Conclusion

While the downsides of live-in care are significant, it doesn’t mean it is not a viable option. All types of care features have their pros and cons. Most important is the individual’s independence and comfort at home, which live-in care strongly supports. Carefully considering an individual’s needs, preferences, and finances can help you choose the right care.

Remember, while making these decisions can be stressful, you do not need to make them alone. Organisations like PrimeCarers can provide valuable advice and support on your care journey.