Is 24 hour care at home cheaper than a care home?

Is 24 hour care at home cheaper than a care home?

It depends on the level of care needed, but 24-hour live-in care at home is often comparable to, and in many cases cheaper than, a care home once you compare like for like -- particularly for a couple, since a care home typically charges for two separate places while one live-in carer can support both people under a single fee.

Cost of 24-Hour Live-In Care

• Live-in care is usually charged as one weekly fee covering the agreed care plan, rather than an hourly rate -- typically from around £1,200 a week for one person, more for higher-need or specialist care.
• Accommodation and meals for the carer are factored into that fee rather than billed separately.
• The person stays in their own home, with familiar surroundings and routine kept -- something a care home place can't offer.

Cost of a Care Home

• Care homes charge daily rates that typically include accommodation, meals, personal care, and 24-hour supervision by trained staff.
• Cost varies by the level of care required (residential, nursing or dementia care) and the facilities on offer.
• For a couple, most care homes charge for two separate places rather than housing both together in one room.

Cost Comparison

• Initially, 24-hour care at home may appear more expensive due to hourly rates and additional costs. However, it can be cost-effective when compared to the daily rates charged by care homes, especially for individuals who require intensive or specialized care.
• Over the long term, the cost-effectiveness of 24-hour care at home versus a care home depends on factors such as the duration of care needed, any changes in care needs over time, and the individual preferences and circumstances of the care recipient.

Individual Circumstances

• The decision between 24-hour care at home and a care home should prioritize the care recipient's health, safety, and quality of life, along with financial considerations.

Conclusion

Ultimately, whether 24-hour care at home is cheaper than a care home depends on the specific needs of the individual, the level of care required, and the cost structures of care providers in your area. It's advisable to gather quotes from both live-in care agencies and care homes, and to consider the overall value and quality of care provided when making this important decision.