Live-In Care vs Assisted Living: What’s the difference?

Working out which type of care best suits your loved one can be a daunting decision. It’s easier to be confident that you’ve chosen the right care format when you understand the key differences between your options. Live-in care and assisted living are both care formats that prioritise an individual’s independence and wellbeing. But what are the key differences? Read on to uncover crucial considerations when choosing your loved one’s care. 

What is live-in care?

Live-in care is when a trained carer lives in the home of someone who needs care and support. They provide round-the-clock assistance, allowing individuals to stay in the comfort of their own homes while receiving the assistance they need. Live-in carers can provide help across daily tasks, including washing, toileting, meal preparation, medication management, and mobility support. Live-in care is ideal for people with long-term health conditions, disabilities, or elderly individuals who require continuous care but want to avoid moving into a residential care home. It offers companionship and ensures that help is always available when needed.

What is assisted living? 

Assisted living is a housing option for individuals who need help with daily activities but do not require the intensive medical care provided by nursing homes. Residents typically have their own private apartments and receive assistance with tasks like bathing, dressing, medication management, meal preparation, and housekeeping. Assisted living facilities also offer social activities and communal spaces to promote social interaction and wellbeing. This type of care is ideal for older adults or those with disabilities who want to maintain a level of independence while ensuring they have support when needed, providing a balance of freedom and assistance.

What’s the difference between live-in care and assisted living? 

The main difference between live-in care and assisted living lies in the setting and level of personal support. Live-in care involves a carer who stays in the individual’s home, providing personalised, one-on-one, 24-hour care. This option allows individuals to remain in the comfort of their own homes. In contrast, assisted living takes place in a dedicated facility, like a care home, where residents have their own rooms but can receive support whenever they need it. 

What are the advantages of live-in care and assisted living?

There are numerous advantages to both live-in care and assisted care, each offering unique benefits depending on individual needs.

Live-in care provides the comfort of having a dedicated caregiver in the home, allowing the person to remain in a familiar environment while receiving personalized care 24/7. This option can be ideal for those who require constant support but wish to maintain their independence.

On the other hand, assisted care offers access to various amenities in a residential setting, providing further social opportunities. In both live-in care and assisted living, the main focus is to ensure that the individual has their physical and emotional needs met at all times. 

How do you know if live-in care or assisted living is right for you? 

It’s important to choose the right type of care for your family members so that they have the support they need without feeling stifled. 

Level of care 

Different care settings offer varying levels of support based on individual needs. Assisted living facilities typically have multiple staff members who provide care to all residents, ensuring assistance with daily activities and medical needs. In contrast, live-in care provides a dedicated carer who offers one-on-one attention and personalised support within the comfort of the home. This tailored approach can be beneficial for those who require more focused care or prefer a familiar environment while still receiving full-time, professional support. 

Flexibility requirements 

Whilst assisted living can still offer flexibility, live-in care is a better option for those who need care and support but don’t want to change their routine and lifestyle. As assisted living means moving into a care facility, it can prove disrupting and disorienting to the person receiving care. Whilst the priority is always to secure the care your loved one needs, live-in care can be a more flexible care option, allowing them to get the right physical and emotional support in the comfort of their own home. Live-in care doesn’t have to be 24/7 either, you can opt for hourly care where a carer visits the home for a minimum of one hour on a daily or weekly basis.

Personal preference 

It’s important to take into consideration your loved one’s feelings and opinions when choosing their care. Some people will benefit from the socialisation and independence the group setting of an assisted living venue can offer. In comparison, others may prefer to stay at home with their partners, friends and family close by. 

How to arrange assisted or live-in care  

Arranging live-in care is easy and stress-free with Ashridge Home Care. Start the process by getting in touch, filling out our form or calling us on 01494 917 344. Once you’ve told us about what you’re looking for, we’ll assign you a dedicated care manager who will work with you to develop a personalised care plan. From there, they’ll match you with a carer whose personality and skillset are a good match for your loved one. 

Live-in care with Ashridge Home Care 

Choosing award-winning live-in care with Ashridge Home Care will secure your loved one the dedicated, one-on-one support they deserve, all from the comfort of their own home. From personal care to medication management and companionship, your family can enjoy peace of mind knowing that the person you love is receiving the highest standard of care. Whether they require specialist or disability care, our team will work closely with your family to create a care plan built to meet their specific needs.

With Ashridge Home Care, your loved one can enjoy the security of professional care, while maintaining their independence and dignity in a familiar, comforting environment. We have been rated as Outstanding in the Caring Category by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and pride ourselves on promoting meaningful connections with all of our clients.

To find out more about our live-in care services, get in touch with the team at Ashridge Home Care today. Our friendly team will be happy to answer any of your questions, helping you to choose the right care for your family.