What Types of Care Are Available (Live-in, Respite, Specialist Dementia Care, Palliative Care)?

Home care is not a one-size-fits-all service. There are many different types of care available, each designed to meet specific needs and circumstances. Understanding the options helps you choose the right level of support for yourself or your loved one.

Hourly visiting care is the most common form of home care. A carer visits the person's home for a set number of hours each day or week, providing support with personal care, meals, medication, and companionship. Visits can range from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on what is needed.

Live-in care involves a carer living in the person's home, providing continuous support throughout the day and being available overnight. This is ideal for individuals who need a higher level of support but want to remain in their own home. It is often a preferred alternative to moving into a residential care home.

Respite care provides temporary relief for family members who are the primary caregivers. Whether it is for a few days, a couple of weeks, or longer, respite care ensures the person continues to receive professional support while their regular carer takes a well-deserved break.

Specialist dementia care is tailored to individuals living with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. Carers with specific dementia training understand the condition's unique challenges — including memory loss, confusion, communication difficulties, and behavioural changes — and are skilled in delivering patient, compassionate support.

Palliative care focuses on comfort, quality of life, and dignity for individuals with life-limiting conditions. Home-based palliative care allows the person to spend their final weeks or months in familiar surroundings, supported by carers who work closely with district nurses, GPs, and specialist palliative care teams.

Post-hospital care (also known as reablement care) supports individuals recovering from surgery, illness, or a hospital stay. The focus is on helping the person regain independence and confidence, with care gradually reducing as recovery progresses.

At GoCarely, we offer all of these care types and tailor our services to each person's unique situation. Our care managers will help you understand which type of care is most appropriate and create a plan that can evolve as needs change.