Choosing between elderly home care and a residential care facility is one of the most important decisions families make as loved ones age. With the rising costs of long-term care and growing options available in the UK, it’s essential to evaluate which setting is the most suitable for safety, health, independence, and emotional wellbeing.
This article compares in-home care and residential homes in 2025, helping you decide what’s best for your unique situation.
Home Care vs. Residential Facility: What’s the Difference?
Elderly home care means receiving professional help and support while remaining in your own home. Services can include help with personal hygiene, medication management, meal preparation, and companionship.
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Residential care, often referred to as a care home or nursing home, offers 24/7 support in a dedicated facility, often with medical supervision and shared communal life.
Comparison Table: Home Care vs. Residential Facility (2025)
| Criteria | Home Care | Residential Facility |
|---|---|---|
| Living Environment | Stay at home, familiar surroundings | Dedicated care facility |
| Level of Supervision | Scheduled visits, not 24/7 | Round-the-clock care |
| Medical Support | Limited (unless specialist care arranged) | Available on-site in nursing homes |
| Social Interaction | Dependent on family, carers, or visitors | Group activities, community living |
| Cost (average 2025) | £20–£30/hour (~£1,000–£1,500/month part-time) | £800–£1,500/week depending on care level |
| Independence | High (remain at home) | Moderate to low |
| Adaptability | Care tailored to individual schedule | Structured routines with some flexibility |
Which Is Best for Your Loved One?
The decision depends on a mix of care needs, budget, personal preference, and medical condition.
- Choose home care if your loved one is relatively independent, values their home environment, and only needs a few hours of assistance.
- Choose a residential facility if there are complex medical needs, safety concerns (e.g. dementia), or isolation is affecting quality of life.
What Are the Costs in 2025?
- Home Care: Expect to pay around £20–£30 per hour for professional carers. Full-time care at home can reach £3,000–£6,000/month.
- Residential Care Homes: Weekly fees in the UK range between £800–£1,200, with higher rates for specialist dementia or nursing care.
Note: Some costs may be offset by Attendance Allowance, NHS Continuing Healthcare, or local authority funding, depending on eligibility.
FAQ – Choosing Elderly Home Care or Residential Facility
What is an elderly home?
The term can refer to both a senior’s private residence with support services or a dedicated care facility (residential or nursing home).
Can my parent stay at home with dementia?
Yes, if they’re in early stages and have proper support. In later stages, residential care may offer better safety and medical supervision.
Is home care cheaper than a care home?
For part-time help, yes. But 24/7 live-in care at home often equals or exceeds residential facility costs.
Who qualifies for help paying for care?
If assets are below £23,250 (in England), local authorities may contribute to care home or in-home care costs after an assessment.
Can Senior Home Plus help me find home care providers or facilities?
Absolutely. Our advisors compare local options and explain funding routes, free of charge.
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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