What are the different types of Home Care Services available?

There are several types of Home Care Services available across the UK, each aiming to maintain an individual’s independence whilst providing the support they require. Home Care Services offer specialised support tailored to the certain needs and preferences of the individual. These types of services can be beneficial for seniors, individuals with disabilities, or anyone who requires assistance with daily activities or medical care but does not require a Care Home.

Our guide is here to help you understand the different types of Home Care Services available so you can start to make an informed decision on the best type of care for you and your loved ones.

Our guide is here to help you understand the different types of Home Care Services available so you can start to make an informed decision on the best type of care for your loved ones.

So, what are the different types of Home Care Services available?

Given the different types of home care services available, let us break them down and provide you with a starting point in understanding the world of care services.

Personal Care Services

Personal care supports individuals with daily tasks that have become challenging due to aging or because of an illness.

This can include assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, feeding, oral hygiene and skin care. Mobility assistance such as transferring from bed to a chair or help with walking can also be provided.

Personal care tailors to your loved one’s specific requirements and needs.

Companion Care Service

Companionship care is aimed towards those who are predominately independent but may not have a lot of contact with others. This is a great solution in tackling loneliness, particularly amongst older adults.

This type of care can include accompanying individuals to appointments, social outings, or events. It may simply be a carer visiting an individual in their home to keep them company by engaging in their hobbies, providing a friendly face to chat with or even cooking a favourite meal together.

Nursing Care Services

Nursing Care requires care workers to be more specifically trained in more advanced medical procedures. Whilst many carers are trained in minor medical tasks some go beyond their capabilities.

These services can include wound care, medication administration and medical monitoring for chronic illnesses. It can also cover physical, occupational, or speech therapy services provided in the home.

Respite Care Services

Respite Care is a temporary solution designed to offer relief to family caregivers by giving them a break from their everyday caregiving duties.

This type of care allows the caregiver the chance to rest and recharge whilst ensuring high-quality care is still provided for a loved one.

This type of care can be provided at home, in a care home or at a day centre. It can be for a few hours, a few days or even a few weeks.

Dementia Care Services

Providing care for someone with dementia can be challenging but having a dedicated support team allows your loved one to maintain their independence as much as possible whilst also remaining comfortable in their own home.

Your loved one’s routine and comfort is at the forefront of the carer’s mind. Carers trained in dementia are equipped to deal with challenging situations that arise with dementia.

Live-in Care

Live-in Care is continuous care provided by caregivers who live in an individual’s home. A live-in carer can support an individual with any specific needs necessary to keep them comfortable and independent at home.

Live-in carers help with many different aspects such as personal care, companionship, specialist medical care, and any dietary requirements.

The main benefit of live-in care is that it allows your loved one to maintain the lifestyle they have become familiar with whilst receiving the dedicated support they need.

Shared Lives

Shared Lives is a scheme during which an individual who requires care goes to visit or live with a care worker.

This can either be a short-term or long-term solution which allows the individual to enjoy life within a family unit whilst also receiving the care and support they need.

Shared Lives can benefit a young person who has left the care system, an elderly person who may have no immediate family or for those with long-term conditions.

Home Care Services allow an individual access to support they need whilst remaining in the familiar surroundings of their home. With flexible solutions and options your loved one can retain their independence and the lifestyle they have been accustomed to. There is a wide range of support available through the UK meeting the unique needs of aging and vulnerable adults but all have the same objective in mind – to give those who need it the highest standard of care they require and deserve.

Further support can be found directly on the NHS website – Help at home from a paid carer – Social care and support guide – NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Written on the 22nd August 2023 by

Gemma Costello

Find me on LinkedIn

Related Advice & News

The Best Dementia Friendly Playlists | Why Music Can Help

Music has the power to evoke memories, emotions, and a sense of connection, making it a valuable tool in dementia care. Discover how carefully curated playlists can enhance the quality of life for those living with dementia, offering comfort, stimulation, and moments of joy. Explore the best dementia-friendly playlists and learn why music therapy is becoming an essential part of dementia care.

Service Finder

Find help when you need it

Your Location

Service Required

Latest

Advice & News

View All

Recognising the Signs of Carer Burnout | How to Manage It

In this article, we explore the signs of carer burnout, offer practical strategies to prevent it, and provide resources to help carers maintain their well-being while continuing to provide compassionate care.

How Winter Fuel Payments Are Changing | What You Need to Know

With winter approaching, you may be starting to worry about the cost of living and fuel payments. We want to help you feel better prepared and aware of the changes. Read below to find out more.

The Best Dementia Friendly Playlists | Why Music Can Help

Music has the power to evoke memories, emotions, and a sense of connection, making it a valuable tool in dementia care. Discover how carefully curated playlists can enhance the quality of life for those living with dementia, offering comfort, stimulation, and moments of joy. Explore the best dementia-friendly playlists and learn why music therapy is becoming an essential part of dementia care.

Five Key Questions About Care Home Fees | A Quick Guide

Our article breaks down the five key questions about care home fees, including the average cost of care homes in the UK and what factors influence these prices. Learn more about what you can expect to pay and how to navigate financial assistance options, helping you plan for the future with confidence.