Live In Caregiver & Other Caregiver Costs and Options

People are living longer.  This is a fantastic development in Western medicine, understanding health and treating serious illness.  But with the longevity of life, comes the need for individuals and families around the world to look at alternative options for caregivers.

Traditionally, one would associate caregivers with retirement homes, a place where the elderly go to live in order to have their care managed correctly.  However, in more modern times, families and individuals have more options for their loved ones, including hiring a live in caregiver.

Types of Caregivers

1. Team/Live in Carergivers – Typically this will consist of a team of two individuals who are able to work together to provide 7 days a week around the clock care.  This type of live in caregiver team will be most suited to individuals needing a higher level of care and attention.  It is also a suitable long-term solution for families or individuals needing this highest level of care.
2. Single Live in Caregiver – These individuals may live in the property or in nearby accommodation provided by the individual or family.  Live in carers will provide all forms of care and support, but due to laws and health & safety, are unable to work more than 6 days a week without a break.  However, a live in caregiver can provide on-call and emergency support should the family require it.
3. Single Live out Caregiver – These individuals will live out of the property and attend for a set number of hours.  They might also be able to provide emergency support depending on their location to the property and other commitments.  They are suitable for individuals and families needing a less intensive and around the clock care and support.
4. Temporary Carergiver – Perhaps a scheduled surgery or operation means that an extra pair of hands will be required, or another need will arise to want temporary care/help in the property for the individual or family.  This type of temporary care could be a live in caregiver or live out, and provide a set length of care for the needs of the support required.

Types of Care Duties Provided

Care providers can give a varied and flexible range of duties in order to support the individual or family. With a private care provider, you have much more flexibility and the ability to mix and match the duties to your individual needs.  Duties can include:

• Medical support – administration of medicine etc.
• Nursing support – some private care givers are trained nurses and able to provide nursing support skills.
• Washing and hygiene support – such as bathing, toilets and hygiene if the individual is not able to do this themselves.
• Housekeeping – managing and caring for the home if the individual or family cannot do it themselves.
• Cooking – cooking food.
• Shopping/Errands – as appropriate to the household.
• Pet care – walking the dog and caring for pets in the household.
• Specialist care – some carers will be specialists with disabilities, elderly care or dementia etc.

What are the Advantages of Private Care Over Residential Care?

Depending on the specific situation, by providing private care for an individual or family home, it prevents a possibly traumatic relocation.  It also gives peace of mind to other family members that their loved one is getting specific one to one attention and care, which might not always be possible in residential care homes.  Every family has different needs, and it is important to assess the situation and listen to professionals offering medical advice.

By providing private care for an individual or family home, it prevents a possibly traumatic relocation Click To Tweet

Costs of Private Caregivers

Caregivers in the private sector will vary greatly on their qualifications.  For example, a housekeeper who is able to assist their client in care duties, but not provide medical assistance, will be paid less than a qualified nurse giving around the clock care and medical support.  It also varies depending on if you provide accommodation, have a live in caregiver and other additional aspects of the package.  A general guideline of salary is:

1. Entry Level Carer will expect between £400-600net per week or between £15-20 net per hour (if part time)
2. Mid Level Carer will expect between £600-800net per week or between £20-28net per hour (if part time)
3. High Level Specialist Carer will expect upwards of £800net per week or upwards of £28net per hour (if part time)

Important Steps

As the carer will be in charge and directly responsible for the health and well-being of your family, it is important you take appropriate steps.  Ensure that you fully vet the candidate and if self-recruiting, ensure you check references and that they have a DBS.  If you decide you need professional support, you can approach an agency who offer fully vetted candidates that are available to interview and hire.

How to Fund Private Care?

Private care is typically not subsidised, and families will need to draw on income and finances of their own.  Different countries will have different rules and regulations, so we always recommend contacting your local government official to help with any advice.  Some individuals will use pensions, others will use savings, and some will choose to release equity on their houses in order to pay for the care.

Are you looking for a private carer?  We would love to help talk through your needs and find out how best we can assist you.  We offer private carers for full-time, part-time and temporary placements in London and around the world.