When a loved one needs full-time support, families are often faced with two main options: 24-hour care or live-in care.
While the terms sound similar, they’re actually quite different in how the care is delivered. Understanding the difference can help you make the best choice for your family and your loved one’s well-being.
At Reedsfield Care, we provide both live-in and 24-hour support across Surrey and Hampshire. In this guide, we’ll explain what each type of care involves, the key differences between them, and how to decide which option is right for your situation.
Why families consider full-time care
It’s natural for families to want to look after their loved ones at home. But sometimes, care needs become too complex or demanding to manage alone.
Whether due to a health condition like dementia, mobility issues, or recovery after hospital treatment, your loved one may need constant support to stay safe and comfortable.
Full-time care can provide:
- Peace of mind for families, knowing someone is always there.
- Personalised support in the comfort of the home.
- Consistency in routines, helping loved ones feel secure.
- Relief from the pressure and exhaustion of family caregiving.
Choosing between 24-hour care and live-in care depends on the level of support required and how you want that support structured.
What is live-in care?
Live-in care means that a professional care worker moves into your loved one’s home and provides ongoing support. They are based in the house, becoming a consistent, familiar presence.
Key features of live-in care include:
- One dedicated care worker living in the home.
- Help with daily activities like personal care, meals, medication, and household tasks.
- Companionship and emotional support.
- The reassurance of someone being available most of the time.
However, it’s important to note that live-in care workers also need rest and breaks. While they are on hand throughout the day, they typically have designated time off (often a few hours each day and longer breaks across the week). This makes live-in care ideal for people who need frequent support, but not continuous active supervision through the night.
What is 24-hour care?
24-hour care ensures that your loved one has round-the-clock support with no gaps. Instead of one live-in carer, 24-hour care is usually provided by two or more care workers who work in shifts to cover both daytime and overnight needs.
Key features of 24-hour care include:
- Shift-based support (typically one care worker in the day, another overnight).
- No period where your loved one is unattended.
- Suitable for people with complex or high-level needs who may require help at any hour.
- Families benefit from reassurance that care is available at all times, day and night.
This option is particularly valuable for those living with advanced dementia, serious mobility difficulties, or health conditions that may cause emergencies or require attention during the night.
Key differences between live-in care and 24-hour care
While both options provide your loved one with full-time support, the main differences are:
Live-In Care | 24-Hour Care |
One care worker lives in the home | Multiple care workers work in shifts |
Provides daily support and companionship | Provides continuous, uninterrupted supervision |
Care worker requires breaks and rest | Care is always available, day or night |
Suitable for moderate to high care needs | Best for complex or intensive care needs |
More affordable than 24-hour care | Higher cost (due to multiple care workers) |
Which option is right for your loved one?
The choice between live-in and 24-hour care depends on your loved one’s specific needs and your family’s preferences. Here are some things to consider:
- Level of care required. Does your loved one need occasional support through the night, or must someone always be awake and alert?
- Consistency versus coverage. Is it more important for them to have one familiar face or to have continuous coverage from a team?
- Live-in care is usually more cost-effective, while 24-hour care involves higher staffing levels.
- Lifestyle and home environment. Is there space for more than one care worker, or is a single live-in carer more practical?
At Reedsfield Care, we work with families to assess needs and recommend the right option. Our priority is always dignity, comfort, and peace of mind.
Both live-in care and 24-hour care allow your loved one to stay in the comfort of their own home while receiving the support they need. The right choice depends on the level of care required, your family’s circumstances, and the peace of mind you want to achieve.
At Reedsfield Care, we’re here to guide you through the decision. With compassionate, professional care workers across Surrey and Hampshire, we can provide the right support for your loved one (whether that’s the familiar presence of a live-in care worker or the reassurance of round-the-clock supervision).
If you’d like to talk through your options, contact us today. We’ll take the time to listen and help you find the care that feels right for your family.