When care needs increase, choosing the right type of support is crucial for long-term wellbeing. Two popular options in the UK are live-in care and domiciliary care. While both allow older adults to remain at home, they differ in the level of support, cost, continuity of care, and lifestyle impact.
This guide explores the key differences to help families make an informed decision that respects dignity, independence, and safety.
What Is Domiciliary Care?
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Domiciliary care, often referred to as home care, involves a trained carer visiting your home at scheduled times to help with daily tasks. Care visits can range from 30 minutes to several hours per day, depending on personal needs.
Common services include:
- Personal care (washing, dressing, grooming)
- Medication reminders and meal preparation
- Help with mobility and daily routines
- Household chores such as laundry and cleaning
- Social support and companionship
Domiciliary care is ideal when the individual is mostly independent but needs regular assistance.
What Is Live-In Care?
Live-in care means that a professional caregiver moves into the individual's home to provide continuous, round-the-clock support. The carer has their own space and works according to structured daily routines.
Typical support includes:
- Full personal care
- Mobility and night-time assistance
- Meal preparation and household management
- Continuous supervision and safety monitoring
- Emotional support and companionship
Live-in care is particularly valuable when full-time monitoring is required but staying at home remains a priority.
Comparison Table: Live-In Care vs Domiciliary Care
| Feature | Domiciliary Care | Live-In Care |
|---|---|---|
| Support Level | Scheduled visits for essential tasks. | Continuous care and supervision. |
| Independence | High — individual maintains daily routine. | High — but with ongoing support and presence. |
| Familiar Environment | Care in own home. | Care in own home, without needing to relocate. |
| Cost | Hourly or per-visit charges; cost-effective for light needs. | Higher total cost but may replace need for residential care. |
| Best For | Those needing moderate support. | Those needing full-time or complex care. |
| Family Role | Families may still manage some care duties. | Reduces pressure on family; consistent support. |
Advantages of Domiciliary Care
- Supports autonomy and independence
- Flexible schedules that can be adjusted over time
- Cost-efficient for those who need limited help
- Familiar home environment maintained
Advantages of Live-In Care
- 24-hour reassurance and safety monitoring
- Prevents unnecessary moves to unfamiliar settings
- Reduces loneliness through companionship
- Suitable for complex needs, including dementia or mobility loss
Considerations When Choosing Between the Two
| Consideration | Key Question |
|---|---|
| Level of need | Does the person require supervision throughout the day and night? |
| Emotional wellbeing | Is companionship and constant reassurance important? |
| Budget | Is it more cost-effective to pay hourly or invest in full-time care? |
| Home environment | Is the home suitable for another person to live in? |
FAQ
Is live-in care more expensive than domiciliary care?
Yes, live-in care typically costs more because it provides full-time support. However, it may be comparable to residential care costs.
Can live-in care support dementia needs?
Yes. Live-in care can offer structure, familiarity, and continuous supervision — key for dementia wellbeing.
How many hours per day does domiciliary care cover?
It varies. Support can range from short visits to several hours daily, depending on assessed needs.
Can the local council help pay for either care?
Yes. Funding is assessed based on income, savings, and level of care required.
Need help finding a care home?
Senior Home Plus offers free personalized guidance to help you find a care facility that suits your health needs, budget, and preferred location in the UK.
Call us at 0203 608 0055 to get expert assistance today.
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