Comparison between Home Care and Residential Care (Pros and Cons)

It is no myth that things can be harder to do on your own as you age. You might need help with everyday living, equipment, home modifications, personal care, health care, accommodation — ultimately the aged care support you need to be able to go about with your lives. 

There are several care options available if you believe your elderly need more of this assistance. 

In this article, Healthcare Channel has outlined the pros and cons of home care and residential care to help you in deciding which is the best option for your elderly, taking into account factors such as their specific medical condition, financial situation, and level of personal comfort, among others. 

Care in your home

In-home aged care provides support to help you stay independent for as long as possible. It can help with things like personal care, transport, food, shopping, housework, physio, social activities, and modifications to your home. 

Pros
1. Personal, convenient and allows you to maintain an independent lifestyle
2. One-on-one treatment; Tailored care plan to cater to unique needs
3. Control the type of care needed and wants to receive, and the costs as well
4. Familiarity with the place 

Cons
1. In-home expenses, home maintenance and repair to keep up with safety and accessibility
2. More intensive services and the need for specialized equipment are often inaccessible in a home setting
3. The challenge of balancing caregiving with other obligations 

Residential care in aged care homes 

Residential care in aged care (nursing) homes is for older people who can no longer live at home and need ongoing help with everyday tasks or health care. Residential care can be short-term (respite care) or permanent. 

Pros
1. Offers 24/7 care
2. Experienced staff to better assist your elderly
3. Better equipped to handle emergencies
4. Proper medical care is assured 

Cons
1. Expensive
2. Privacy may be an issue; the elderly may feel lost as well
3. Intermittent care poses dangers such as social isolation, inactivity, and malnutrition 

At the end of the day, what matters is that your elderly are properly taken care of and receive the excellent care they deserve, so be sure to talk this over with your family and decide what is the best alternative that works for everyone, especially for your elderly. 

Ritchelle Drilon

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Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.

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