When a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, families often face difficult decisions about how best to provide the care and support they need. This journey is filled with emotional and practical considerations, and choosing the right living arrangement is crucial. While some families opt for care homes, others see the benefits of home care, which allows their loved ones to remain in a familiar and comfortable environment.

This article explores the benefits of dementia care at home and how it compares to care homes.

Where Is the Best Place for Someone with Dementia?

For many people living with dementia, staying in a familiar environment surrounded by loved ones, personal belongings, and even pets is key to maintaining a sense of security and comfort. Familiarity can help reduce feelings of anxiety, confusion, and restlessness—common symptoms of dementia.

Care homes, while offering structured care, cannot replicate the personal touches and memories that come with living at home. In fact, studies show that the majority of individuals with dementia would prefer to remain in their own homes. This highlights why dementia care at home is a significant alternative worth considering.

The Benefits of Home Care for People with Dementia

Home care offers many advantages for people living with dementia:

A Safer Environment: Having a dedicated carer at home reduces the risk of accidents and injuries, providing peace of mind to families.

Familiar Surroundings: Living in a familiar home setting can help reduce confusion and anxiety, promoting a sense of stability and calm.

Companionship: A live-in carer provides not only physical care but also emotional support, helping to alleviate loneliness.

Independence: Remaining at home allows individuals to continue their routines and maintain control over daily decisions.

Meaningful Activities: Carers can engage individuals in activities they enjoy, such as gardening, cooking, or reminiscing with photo albums, enhancing their quality of life.

Cost-Effectiveness: Home care offers tailored support, which can be more cost-effective than the blanket care provided in residential settings.

Are People with Dementia Better Off at Home?

Relocating to a care home can sometimes cause "transfer trauma," where the stress of moving exacerbates feelings of disorientation and insecurity. For individuals with dementia, this upheaval can lead to increased anxiety, depression, and irritability.

In contrast, staying at home enables people with dementia to maintain their routines, remain close to their community, and feel a greater sense of control over their lives. This continuity often leads to better outcomes for their emotional well-being.

Live-In Home Care vs. Dementia Care Homes

If living alone becomes unsafe for a loved one with dementia, families often face a choice between live-in care and residential care. Here’s how they compare:

Benefits of Live-In Dementia Care

Familiar Environment: The individual can remain in their cherished home, surrounded by comfort and memories.

One-to-One Care: A dedicated carer provides tailored, personalised support.

Flexibility and Routine: Care can be adjusted to fit the individual’s preferences and established routines.

Proximity to Loved Ones: Family and friends can visit freely, creating a more inclusive care environment.

Privacy: The individual retains personal space and independence in their own home.

Drawbacks of Live-In Dementia Care

Cost: While often more affordable than residential care, live-in care requires a financial commitment.

Household Maintenance: Families need to continue managing household bills and repairs.

Compatibility: Finding the right carer is crucial to building a trusting relationship.

Benefits of Dementia Care Homes

Social Interaction: Care homes offer opportunities for group activities and socialisation.

24/7 Care: Round-the-clock care provides families with reassurance.

No Household Responsibilities: The care home takes on the responsibility for managing the living environment.

Drawbacks of Dementia Care Homes

Disorientation: Moving to a new environment can cause confusion and anxiety.

Lack of Privacy: Sharing communal spaces may feel impersonal or overwhelming.

Set Schedules: Fixed routines may limit an individual’s autonomy.

Why Home Is Often Best for Dementia Care

Choosing between home care and residential care is deeply personal and depends on your loved one’s specific needs, preferences, and circumstances. However, home care often offers the best of both worlds: professional, personalised support in a familiar and comforting setting.

At Astute Home Care, we are passionate about providing high-quality live-in dementia care that supports individuals to thrive in the place they love most—their home. We carefully match clients with experienced carers who not only meet their care needs but also share their interests and values, creating a relationship built on trust and understanding.

If you are considering home care for a loved one with dementia, Astute Home Care can help. Our team is here to provide guidance, support, and a no-obligation care assessment to determine the best solution for your family.

Call us today to learn more about how we can provide tailored dementia care for your loved one, ensuring their comfort, safety, and happiness at home.

Supporting Resources

For additional information, organisations such as Dementia UK and the Alzheimer’s Society offer valuable advice and support for families navigating dementia care.