Making the decision about where an aging loved one should receive care is one of the most emotional—and important—choices a family will face. Traditionally, the default option has been a nursing home or assisted living facility. But increasingly, families in Huntington Beach and across the country are turning to 24/7 in-home care as a more personalized, dignified alternative.
This growing shift reflects a deeper desire: to keep loved ones safe, comfortable, and emotionally supported in the environment they know best—their own home. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this trend and help you understand whether round-the-clock in-home care may be the right fit for your family.
The Rise of 24/7 In-Home Care: Why It's Gaining Popularity
More seniors today are choosing to age in place, and for good reason. Home offers familiarity, control, and a sense of independence that institutional settings often lack. As a result, the demand for 24/7 home care services has grown steadily over the past decade.
In-home care isn’t one-size-fits-all. For individuals who require around-the-clock support, there are typically two care models: live-in caregivers or rotational shifts, where two or three professional caregivers alternate every 8–12 hours. At BrightStar Care of Huntington Beach, we offer both options, customizing the schedule based on the client’s needs and preferences.
This flexibility is key. As care needs evolve over time, families can scale services up or down—something that’s much harder to do within the structure of a facility.
The Emotional Benefits of Staying Home
There’s a profound emotional difference between receiving care at home versus in a facility. At home, seniors remain surrounded by the photos, furniture, pets, and routines that bring them comfort. That familiarity can ease anxiety and reduce feelings of displacement—especially important for those living with dementia or cognitive decline.
In-home care also supports a deeper sense of dignity and control. Instead of adjusting to a facility’s schedule, clients live life on their own terms—whether that means waking up at their usual time, eating favorite meals, or simply enjoying the view from their own backyard.
And for families, the benefits are just as meaningful. Visiting a loved one at home feels more natural and unhurried. There's no need to worry about visiting hours, and loved ones are more integrated into day-to-day life, fostering a stronger sense of connection.
Comparing Nursing Homes to In-Home Care
Nursing homes do offer structure and around-the-clock staffing, which can be essential in certain medical situations. They provide access to trained medical professionals, structured meal plans, and group activities designed to promote social interaction.
However, that structure can sometimes come at a cost. Staffing shortages in long-term care facilities can lead to lower caregiver-to-patient ratios, resulting in less individualized attention. High staff turnover also affects consistency in care—and consistency is crucial for trust, comfort, and safety.
The transition to a facility can also be emotionally difficult. Many seniors feel a loss of autonomy when leaving the comfort of their homes. For those with mobility or memory issues, the unfamiliar environment can be overwhelming, even disorienting.
In contrast, 24/7 in-home care is designed around the client—not the other way around.
What 24/7 Home Care Includes
Round-the-clock home care encompasses far more than just companionship. It can include support with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and mobility. Caregivers can assist with medication reminders, meal preparation, light housekeeping, and even errands.
At BrightStar Care of Huntington Beach, we take it a step further by incorporating skilled nursing care when needed. Our team includes licensed nurses who can provide wound care, administer injections, and oversee complex care plans.
We also prioritize safety adaptations, such as fall prevention strategies and home monitoring, to reduce risk and increase peace of mind for both clients and their families.
What About the Cost? Is 24/7 In-Home Care Affordable?
One of the biggest concerns families have is cost—and understandably so. The answer depends on your loved one’s needs, the number of hours required, and your location. In general, nursing homes can cost between $8,000 to $12,000 per month, while in-home care ranges from $30–$40 per hour, with rotational 24/7 care sometimes equaling or exceeding facility costs.
But here’s the key difference: in-home care offers value beyond the numbers. You’re not just paying for hours—you’re investing in comfort, safety, and dignity. You’re also gaining flexibility. Unlike fixed facility fees, in-home care services can be scaled or customized to fit your budget and care needs.
Many families also use Long-Term Care Insurance (LTCI) to offset in-home care costs. BrightStar Care can help you review your policy, coordinate with your insurance provider, and ensure you’re getting the most out of your benefits. Veterans' assistance programs and other state resources may also be available to help ease the financial burden.
Peace of Mind for the Whole Family
Beyond the practical and financial considerations, 24/7 home care offers something priceless: peace of mind. Knowing that a professional caregiver is always present—especially overnight—can dramatically reduce stress for family members who may have been acting as unpaid caregivers.
This level of care also helps prevent caregiver burnout, a common issue for adult children and spouses juggling work, family, and caregiving responsibilities. With a trusted professional in place, families can focus on being emotionally present instead of managing day-to-day tasks.
At BrightStar Care, we continually assess each client’s care plan, adjust as needs evolve, and ensure a consistent standard of excellence.
Why Huntington Beach Families Are Making the Switch
There’s something unique about the Huntington Beach community. Many seniors here have lived in their homes for decades—built memories, raised families, and formed neighborhood connections. It's no surprise that they want to stay close to those roots.
BrightStar Care of Huntington Beach understands the value of those ties. That’s why we offer local, compassionate, and credentialed care tailored to your family's specific needs. From our clinical oversight to our flexible scheduling, every detail is designed to help seniors stay where they’re happiest—at home.
Explore Your Options with BrightStar Care of Huntington Beach
Choosing the right care path for a loved one is one of the most significant decisions a family can make. While nursing homes serve an important role, 24/7 in-home care is quickly becoming the preferred option for families who prioritize comfort, independence, and emotional well-being.
If you’re exploring options, let’s talk. BrightStar Care of Huntington Beach offers free in-home assessments and can help you determine whether 24/7 care is right for your loved one.
Call us today or schedule a free consultation online. Let’s create a care plan that honors your loved one’s life—and keeps them safe, supported, and at home.
