When a loved one begins to need extra help with everyday life, knowing how best to support them can feel overwhelming. Whether due to age, illness, or a long-term health condition, choosing the right care option is one of the most important decisions a family can make.
Two common options are live-in care and residential care homes, but how do you decide which is best?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the differences between live-in care and care homes, helping you make a choice that’s not just practical, but truly right for your loved one.
What Is Live-in Care?
Live-in care allows someone to remain in the comfort and familiarity of their own home while receiving full-time support. A carefully matched, professional carer lives in the home to provide assistance with personal care, medication, cooking, companionship, and more.
Live-in care can be particularly beneficial for people who:
- Feel most comfortable in their own surroundings
- Want to maintain a sense of independence and routine
- Have complex needs that require one-to-one attention
- Live with pets or in homes that hold special memories
- Prefer continuity and a familiar face every day
What Are Residential Care Homes?
Residential care homes are staffed facilities where individuals live alongside others with similar needs. Care is provided on a 24-hour basis by a team of trained professionals, and residents often have their own room while sharing communal dining, activity, and garden spaces.
Care homes may be better suited for those who:
- Require nursing care or medical support that needs equipment or constant supervision from a medical professional
- Enjoy a structured day of organised activities with groups of their peers for socialising
- Live in rented accommodation or a home that requires significant adaptations or changes to accommodate their care needs
- Are seeking a simpler lifestyle without the responsibility of home maintenance
The Key Differences Between Assisted Living and Care Homes
| Aspect | Live-in Care | Residential Care Home |
|---|---|---|
| Environment | Care provided in your own home | Shared residential setting |
| Level of Personalisation | One-to-one, highly tailored | Staff-to-resident ratio may limit individual attention |
| Familiarity | Surrounded by familiar belongings, routines, and pets | New environment, with shared spaces |
| Independence | High level of independence retained | Structured schedule and shared rules |
| Companionship | One consistent carer offering close support | Opportunities to socialise with other residents |
| Cost | Variable, depending on care needs and live-in arrangements | Often includes accommodation, meals, and care in one fee |
Emotional Wellbeing and Quality of Life
One of the most important considerations is how each care setting supports emotional wellbeing.
Remaining at home often provides a strong sense of comfort and security, especially for individuals living with dementia or anxiety. Staying in a familiar place, surrounded by personal belongings and memories, can be profoundly reassuring. The bond that builds with a consistent live-in carer can also offer meaningful companionship and a sense of dignity.
On the other hand, care homes can offer structured social opportunities (group meals, activities, and outings) which some residents enjoy. This may be a positive shift for those who want to enjoy a routine day that is organised for them. However, the transition to a care home can feel disruptive and disorienting for others, particularly if they are used to quiet, private surroundings.
What Families Should Consider
There’s no universal answer, every situation is different. Here are some key questions to ask:
- What level of care does your loved one need – is it primarily personal support, or are there medical needs involved that require skilled nursing?
- How do they feel about staying at home versus moving somewhere new?
- Do they prefer familiar routines and one-to-one interaction, or do they enjoy structured settings and socialising in group settings?
- Are there local care homes you trust or is there a reputable live-in care agency you can speak to?
- How involved is the wider family and support network – would live-in care be more manageable or isolating?
What Makes Live-in Care Ideal
At PillarCare, we believe live-in care offers something truly special – the ability to receive professional support while remaining in the home that means the most. Our live-in carers are compassionate, experienced, and dedicated to ensuring that every client feels safe, valued, and heard.
We match each individual with a carer based on personality as well as needs, ensuring trust and companionship can grow naturally. Whether support is needed throughout the day or overnight as well, our services are completely tailored to each person’s preferences and priorities.
Live-in care is also shown to be the most effective method of providing support for people suffering with dementia. Having a dedicated one-to-one carer who can consistently keep you engaged, and remaining in an environment that you are familiar with, are both key tools to help keep the brain active and slow down the progression of illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease or vascular dementia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is live-in care more expensive than a care home?
It depends on the level of care needed, the area you live in, and the services included. Live-in care can be cost-effective, especially for couples needing care or those with higher support needs. It also offers exceptional value in terms of personalisation and continuity.
To learn more, visit our guide to care costs.
Can people with dementia receive live-in care?
Absolutely. Live-in care can be particularly beneficial for people with dementia, as it avoids the disruption of a move and provides a stable, calm environment. Familiarity and routine are key in dementia care.
What happens if the live-in carer takes a break?
At PillarCare, we arrange for a fully trained and trusted replacement to cover breaks or holidays. We make sure there's no disruption to the level or quality of care.
Can I switch from live-in care to a care home later?
Yes. Some families choose to start with live-in care and consider a care home later if needs become more complex. Your care journey is always flexible and should evolve with your loved one’s needs.
Making the Choice That Feels Right
Deciding between live-in care and a care home is never easy. It’s a personal decision shaped by your loved one’s needs, preferences, and what brings them the greatest peace of mind.
Whether it's the familiarity of home or the reassurance of round-the-clock residential support, what matters most is that they feel safe, cared for, and respected.
At PillarCare, we’re here to support you every step of the way – with compassion, guidance, and a deep understanding of what truly matters in care.
