Live-In Care Most Asked Questions

How do I know if my loved one needs live-in care?

Live-in care may be a good option if your loved one needs support at different times throughout the day, struggles with everyday activities, has an increased risk of falls, feels isolated, or if family caregivers are feeling stretched or overwhelmed.

What is included in live-in home care?

Live-in home care can include help with personal care, meal preparation, light housekeeping, laundry, mobility assistance, medication reminders, companionship, errands, transportation, and support with morning and evening routines.

Does a live-in caregiver sleep at the home?

Yes. In most live-in care arrangements, the caregiver remains in the home and has scheduled time to rest and sleep. If your loved one requires frequent help during the night, a 24-hour care plan may be more appropriate.

Is live-in care the same as 24-hour care?

Not exactly. Live-in care generally involves one caregiver staying in the home with time set aside for rest, while 24-hour care usually involves multiple caregivers working in shifts to provide continuous awake coverage.

What does the family need to provide for a live-in caregiver?

Families usually provide a private place for the caregiver to sleep, along with access to basic household amenities. Any specific requirements can be reviewed during the care planning process.

Can live-in care be temporary?

Yes. Live-in care can be arranged for short-term or long-term needs. Families may use live-in care after surgery, following a hospital stay, during a family caregiver’s vacation, or as ongoing support to help a loved one age in place.

Is live-in care only for seniors?

While live-in care is often used by older adults, it can also support adults with disabilities, chronic conditions, recovery needs, or anyone who requires consistent non-medical assistance at home.

Can live-in caregivers help with dementia or memory concerns?

Yes. Live-in caregivers can provide routine support, reminders, companionship, and supervision for individuals with dementia or memory concerns. Having one consistent caregiver can also help clients feel more comfortable and secure. For those with advanced dementia or frequent overnight needs, the care plan may need to be adjusted.

How is a live-in caregiver matched with my loved one?

Caregiver matching typically takes into account your loved one’s care needs, personality, daily routine, preferences, and any special considerations. The goal is to create a positive, comfortable, and supportive relationship.

What areas do you serve for live-in home care?

Griswold provides home care services in Hartford and surrounding communities. Families can contact the local office to confirm availability in their town or neighborhood.

How quickly can live-in care begin?

Start times depend on your loved one’s needs, caregiver availability, and completion of the care planning process. In many cases, care can begin within 24 hours after the initial consultation and care plan are completed. Our office has a strong live-in caregiver base, which helps us begin care quickly when needed.

Can live-in care help prevent caregiver burnout?

Yes. Live-in care can ease the pressure on family caregivers by sharing daily responsibilities and providing dependable support. It can also be helpful when family members have travel plans and cannot leave their loved one alone, as a live-in caregiver can provide temporary coverage during that time.

Is live-in care customized to my loved one’s schedule?

Yes. Live-in care is personalized around the client’s routine, preferences, meals, health needs, activities, and family expectations. During a free in-home consultation, we take time to review the client’s daily routine in detail.

What is the difference between live-in care and assisted living?

Live-in care allows someone to receive one-on-one support in the comfort of home, while assisted living requires moving into a residential community. Assisted living does not always provide consistent one-on-one care, and in some cases, families choose live-in care even within assisted living when a loved one’s needs increase.

What services can a live-in caregiver provide?

A live-in caregiver can assist with bathing, dressing, meals, light housekeeping, mobility, medication reminders, errands, transportation, companionship, and daily routines. They may also help with prescribed PT or OT exercises and meaningful activities such as reading aloud, gardening, helping with family Zoom calls, watching Mass online, playing cards, and more.

How do I get started with live-in home care?

You can begin by contacting Griswold to discuss your loved one’s needs, schedule a free in-home consultation, and develop a personalized care plan.