For many seniors, live-in home health care provides many benefits that can’t be matched in a nursing home. The comfort of living at home in a familiar setting is something that most people prefer. Familiar surroundings and routines are especially important for helping those living with dementia.

With home care you can have a uniquely developed, highly personalized plan of care designed to meet your needs and adapted to your lifestyle, without the rigid timetables or set routines of a nursing home.

Couples needing care can stay together, which is not usually possible in a nursing home. You can also keep your beloved pets, with help from your carer. In a nursing home this is not possible.

Many seniors and families are rightfully concerned with the risk of contracting COVID or other infectious diseases in a nursing home. According to the CDC:

The communal nature of nursing homes and long-term care facilities, and the population served (generally older adults often with underlying medical conditions), put those living in nursing homes at increased risk of infection and severe illness from COVID-19.

With a live-in heath aid, a loved one receives one-to-one care and support around the clock, while in a nursing home the staff will have to provide care to many residents.  Finally, while living at home you can continue to be part of your local community. A carer may be able to help you attend religious services or participate in other activities that give your life meaning.

Of course, there are times when a live-in care plan is not the best choice. It is only practical with a large enough home to provide a place for the carer to sleep. For patients with advanced dementia who are prone to wandering, there may be a risk of the patient leaving when the carer is asleep. There may also be circumstances when the patient requires advanced medical care that can’t be provided at home.

Still, most people prefer staying at home, and live-in health care is often the best choice whenever possible.