Exploring the Dangers of Care Homes Compared to In-Home Care

Published: 28/11/2023

Exploring the Dangers of Care Homes Compared to In-Home Care

Navigating the decision between care homes and in-home care for the elderly or individuals with specific care needs can be challenging. This choice becomes even more crucial when considering the dangers and risks associated with each option.

  1. Increased Risk of Contracting Illnesses in Care Homes

One of the major concerns with care homes is the increased risk of contracting illnesses, such as COVID-19. In these settings, the close proximity of residents and shared facilities can accelerate the spread of contagious diseases. There are still instances of COVID outbreaks in care homes.  Indeed there are covid outbreaks in care homes in November  / December 2023. Right at Home South Liverpool is seeing increasing enquiries for concerned family members who want to move their loved one out of residential care and are looking for Live In Care at home. The NHS acknowledges that care homes can sometimes be stressful environments for managing health and care, although they also offer the benefit of a social life and general wellbeing​​.

  1. The Comfort of Familiar Surroundings at Home

Age UK emphasizes the importance of familiar surroundings for the emotional and mental well-being of the elderly. Being uprooted from a known environment and placed into a care home can be disorienting and stressful. In contrast, in-home care allows individuals to stay in their own homes, maintaining their connection with their personal space and memories, which is vital for their overall comfort and happiness​​.

  1. Personalized Care in the Home Setting

Home care services, like those provided by Right at Home Liverpool South, aim to offer a more personalized care experience. They focus on enabling individuals to live safely and happily in their own homes, with care plans tailored to their specific needs. This contrasts with the generic care approach that can sometimes be found in care homes due to the necessity of managing a larger number of residents​​.

  1. Adapting Home for Enhanced Independence

The NHS and Age UK both suggest that adapting the home environment can be a viable alternative to moving into a care home. This includes modifications like stairlifts, handrails, and the use of household gadgets and equipment to aid daily activities. Hiring a carer or getting more support at home is another option for maintaining independence while receiving the necessary care​​​​.

  1. Right at Home Liverpool South's Approach

Right at Home Liverpool South focuses on making a positive difference in the lives of their clients by offering quality care that isn't rushed. Their approach is driven by positive outcomes rather than simply by need, indicating a commitment to personalized care and the overall well-being of their clients​​.

Right at Home South Liverpool offer a number of options for in home care from one call a day through to Live in Care in South Liverpool and Halton. Take a look at our previous blog which will give you a comprehensive guide about the Live In Care Right at Home South Liverpool provides.

While care homes provide necessary services for those requiring constant care and can offer social benefits, the risks associated with these environments in terms of health and psychological well-being cannot be ignored. In-home care, as advocated by organizations like Right at Home Liverpool South, presents a safer alternative with its emphasis on personalized care, maintaining familiar surroundings, and enhancing the quality of life for those in need of support. The decision between a care home and in-home care should always be made considering the individual's specific needs and circumstances.