When families are searching for care options, one of the most common questions we hear is:
“Should we choose live-in care or hourly home care?”
At House of Caring, we offer both services across Harrow, Slough, Maidenhead, and surrounding areas. Let’s break down the key differences to help you choose the best option for your loved one.
🏠 What Is Home Care (Domiciliary Care)?
Home care, also known as domiciliary care, involves a carer visiting the client’s home at scheduled times throughout the day.
These visits can be:
- A few hours a day (e.g. morning & evening)
- Daily or a few times a week
- Short-term or long-term
✳️ Home Care Services Include:
- ✅ Personal hygiene & dressing
- ✅ Medication reminders
- ✅ Light cleaning & meal prep
- ✅ Companionship
- ✅ Elderly support
- ✅ Autism & LD support for children and adults
Ideal for: Clients who need partial assistance while still being mostly independent.
🛏️ What Is Live-In Care?
Live-in care means a professional carer lives in the client’s home 24/7, providing constant support and peace of mind. The carer typically has their own room and is available both day and night.
✳️ Live-In Care Services Include:
- ✅ Round-the-clock supervision
- ✅ Full personal care & support
- ✅ Night care & emergency response
- ✅ Emotional and behavioural support
- ✅ Complex care needs (e.g. dementia, LD, post-hospital recovery)
Ideal for:
- Elderly individuals with memory loss
- Children or adults with complex needs (Autism, ADHD, etc.)
- Those requiring constant supervision or companionship
📊 Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Home Care | Live-In Care |
| Availability | Scheduled visits | 24/7 care |
| Carer stays overnight? | No | Yes |
| Level of support | Light to moderate | Full & continuous |
| Cost | Lower (hourly) | Higher (package rate) |
| Suitable for complex care | Sometimes | Yes |
🌍 Services Available at House of Caring
Whether you’re based in Harrow, Slough, Windsor, or Berkshire, we offer:
- Personalised home care packages
- 24/7 live-in care support
- Specialist carers for Autism, ADHD, Dementia & Complex Needs
All services are delivered by trained, DBS-checked, and CQC-compliant carers.
📞 Need Help Choosing the Right Care Type?
Let us guide you through a free consultation to find the best solution for your loved one.
