Long Term Care

What is the best option? A care home or in-home Care

When it comes to providing the best care for yourself or a loved one, there are two primary options to consider. These are moving into a care home or opting for in-home care. Both have unique benefits and potential drawbacks. The right choice often depends on individual needs and preferences. We have crafted our Care Home around those needs. In this article, we’ll explore the advantages and challenges of Domiciliary/ In-Home Care and a care home.

The Benefits of  A Care Home

24-Hour Care

One of the most significant advantages of a care home is the availability of 24-hour care. Our residents have access to a team of skilled caregivers around the clock. This ensures that any medical or personal needs are met promptly. This constant supervision can be particularly beneficial for individuals who are prone to falls or those who require frequent assistance.

Dedicated Carers

In a care home setting, residents benefit from a team of professional carers who are trained to handle a range of needs, from basic daily assistance, socialisation and medical care. This level of dedicated support ensures that all aspects of a resident’s well-being are addressed, including their physical, emotional, and social needs.

Social Interaction

Our care home provides a vibrant social environment where residents can interact with others. This social aspect is crucial for maintaining mental health and well-being. Regular interaction with peers can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. These can be common challenges among those living alone or with limited social opportunities.

Structured Activities

Crest House Care Home offer a variety of structured activities designed to keep residents engaged and active. For instance, in-chair yoga is often available, helping residents maintain physical flexibility and strength in a safe and supportive environment. Such activities can greatly enhance overall quality of life and contribute to physical health.

An initiative highlighted in a recent Channel 4 documentary involves local nursery children visiting care homes. This intergenerational program fosters connections between different age groups, enriching the lives of residents through meaningful interactions with children. It’s a wonderful example of how our care home strives to create a sense of community and inclusivity.

What’s Included With In-Home Care (Domiciliary)

Domiciliary or in-home care allows individuals to remain in the comfort of their own homes and can even come at a lower investment. The familiar setting of home can provide a sense of stability and continuity, making it easier to maintain personal routines and enjoy belongings. However, homes must be adjusted to accommodate accessibility needs. In-home care visits typically take place three times a day. The space throughout the night between the final visit at the end of the day until the first care visit the following morning, can present a challenge for safety.

Making the Right Choice

Ultimately, the decision between a care home and dominiciliary/ in-home care depends on the specific needs, preferences, and circumstances of the individual and their family. Here are a few considerations to help guide the decision:

Care Needs –

Does the individual require constant supervision or specialised medical care?

Social Preferences –

Is social interaction important to the individual, and how much can they engage with others at home?

Financial Factors –

What is the budget for care, and how does each option fit within it?

Personal Comfort –

Would the individual benefit from the familiarity of home or thrive in a more structured environment with optional activities?

Both care homes and in-home care have their merits, and in some cases, a combination of both may be the best solution. We often temporary restbite as well as long-term stays. By carefully evaluating the needs and preferences of the person receiving care, families can make an informed choice that ensures their loved one receives the support and quality of life they deserve.

We completely appreciate what a difficult choice it is to make at this time so please call us and we would be happy to talk you through your options or to offer guidance.