Types of care
Live-in care explained
How live-in care works day to day, and the questions that reveal whether it will suit your family.
5 min read
One carer, arranged in rotations
A live-in carer lives in the home and supports one person or a couple. Carers work in rotations with breaks each day, so ask how rotations are covered, who provides the break cover, and what happens if the placement is not the right match.
Practical requirements
The carer needs their own room and a clear agreement about food, household tasks, driving and internet access. Getting this written down before the placement starts prevents most early problems.
Compare it honestly with residential care
Live-in care keeps someone at home with one-to-one attention; residential care offers on-site teams and company. Compare both against your day-to-day checklist rather than assuming one is better.
Official sources
Guidance only — it isn't financial or legal advice, and rules and figures change. Always check the official source or speak to an adviser.