Choosing the right type of care for a loved one is one of the most important decisions a family can make. With so many options available, it can feel overwhelming to know which service will best support their wellbeing, independence, and comfort. Two of the most popular choices are live-in care and hourly (or visiting) home care—each offering distinct advantages depending on the level of support required.
At Avant Homecare, we aim to make this decision clearer and easier by helping families understand what each care type provides and how it aligns with their loved one’s specific needs. Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the right option with confidence.
What Is Live-In Care?
Live-in care means a professional caregiver moves into your loved one’s home to provide 24-hour support, companionship, and assistance. Families often choose live-in care when their loved one requires continuous oversight or needs consistent help with daily tasks.
A live-in carer can support with:
Personal care (washing, dressing, toileting)
Medication management
Meal preparation and nutrition
Mobility assistance
Companionship and emotional support
Night-time reassurance
Household tasks and routines
Live-in care offers reassurance for families, knowing someone is always there—not just to help, but to provide genuine companionship.
What Is Hourly Home Care?
Hourly home care, sometimes called visiting care, offers support at scheduled times throughout the day or week. A carer visits your loved one for a set number of hours to help with tasks such as meal preparation, medication prompts, personal care, or companionship.
It’s ideal for people who:
Are mostly independent
Need help at certain points in the day
Have family members nearby who also provide support
Want flexibility without full-time care
Hourly care provides a personalised level of support without the need for someone to be in the home around the clock.
Key Differences Between Live-In and Hourly Care
Understanding the core differences helps families choose the best care solution.
Level of Support
Live-in care: Continuous support and overnight presence.
Hourly care: Support only during scheduled visits.
Cost Structure
Live-in care: A single weekly fee covering 24-hour support.
Hourly care: Pay-per-hour, making it cost-effective for occasional support but potentially more costly for high needs.
Flexibility
Live-in care: Ideal for constant support but requires room for a carer and shared routines.
Hourly care: Highly flexible and tailored to specific times of the day.
Suitability for Complex Needs
Live-in care: Best for individuals with dementia, frailty, mobility issues, or conditions requiring ongoing supervision.
Hourly care: Best for those who are largely independent but benefit from occasional help.
Both approaches offer outstanding care—it simply depends on the level and frequency of support your loved one needs.
When Is Live-In Care the Right Choice?
Live-in care is especially valuable when a loved one:
Lives with dementia or memory loss
Is anxious when alone
Is at risk of falls or nighttime wandering
Needs help with most daily activities
Would struggle with the disruption of moving into residential care
Families often say live-in care provides peace of mind, knowing their loved one remains safe, comfortable, and emotionally supported in their own home.
When Is Hourly Care the Better Option?
Hourly home care is well-suited when a loved one:
Can manage most tasks independently
Only needs specific support (e.g., morning routines, medication, meals)
Has close family nearby who can help
Enjoys regular social interactions but doesn’t require full-time supervision
It’s also a great way to introduce care gently, especially for someone who’s unsure about having a carer in their home full-time.
How to Decide What’s Best for Your Loved One
To choose confidently, consider:
What level of support they need daily
How safe they are when alone
Whether their needs change throughout the day or night
Their emotional comfort and preferences
Your own ability to provide support
Talking to a professional care provider can help you explore these questions clearly.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Support with Avant Homecare
Every individual is unique, and so are their care needs. Whether you choose live-in care or hourly home care, the goal is always the same: to support your loved one’s independence, dignity, and wellbeing.
At Avant Homecare, we provide both live-in and hourly care delivered by compassionate, highly trained carers. Our team are here to help you understand your options and choose the solution that gives your family the greatest peace of mind.
If you’d like personalised guidance, we’re only a message or phone call away.
