Planning for the Future: When Is It Time for 24-Hour Home Care? Advice from BrightStar Care Experts

As our loved ones age, there comes a time when they need more care than a few visits each week or the occasional help around the house. 

In these times, 24-hour home care can provide the stability you need for your loved one’s health and safety. 

Designed to provide round-the-clock assistance, our 24-hour home care ensures that seniors are safe, comfortable, and well taken care of, right where they’re most comfortable.

But how do you know when it’s the right time to consider 24-hour care?

What is 24-Hour Home Care?

24-hour home care refers to continuous support for your loved one during the day and the night. Whenever they need someone, a helping hand is there.

Home care could include help with daily activities, managing medical conditions, or offering companionship. Unlike regular home visits or part-time assistance, 24-hour home care ensures that a caregiver is always available, providing peace of mind for families.

When is It Time for 24-Hour Home Care?

Deciding to transition to 24-hour home care is often challenging, but knowing when it’s time can provide peace of mind. 

Our experts recommend considering 24-hour home care when your loved one’s health or safety becomes a daily concern. 

Here are key signs that it may be time:

• Chronic Health Conditions: If your loved one has a condition like dementia, Parkinson’s disease, or heart disease that requires constant monitoring, 24-hour care ensures they receive the support they need.
• Frequent Medical Needs: When your loved one requires medication management, wound care, or assistance with mobility, having a caregiver available around the clock is crucial for their health and safety.
• Risk of Falls or Injury: For those with mobility issues, the risk of falls is high. 24-hour care provides immediate assistance in case of an emergency, reducing the risk of serious injury.
• Declining Mental Health: If your loved one struggles with anxiety, depression, or cognitive decline, having constant companionship and supervision can help improve their emotional well-being.
• Family Caregiver Burnout: If family members are struggling to manage the caregiving responsibilities, 24-hour home care can offer relief, ensuring that your loved one’s needs are met without overburdening the family.

What Does 24-Hour Home Care Cost?

One of the most common concerns when considering 24-hour home care is the cost. So, what should you expect to pay for 24-hour home care? 

The price can vary based on several factors, including location, the level of care required, and the service provider.

• Hourly Rate: Typically, 24-hour home care happens in shifts with multiple caregivers. Depending on where you live, the cost can range from $20 to $40 per hour. This means that for a full 24-hour day, you’d pay between $480 and $960 a day.
• 24-Hour Live-In Care: We also offer live-in care, where one caregiver stays in the home and works 24 hours, usually in shifts. This may be more affordable than paying for multiple shifts throughout the day.
• Additional Costs: There may be extra costs depending on the needs of your loved one. For example, if they require specialized medical care, such as ventilator or tracheostomy management, that could increase the cost.

For families looking for safety and health for a loved one, 24-hour home care may be the solution. Many families find the gain of companionship, expert knowledge, and peace of mind much worth the cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 24-hour home care and live-in care?

Live-in care is when one caregiver stays in the home for 24 hours, but typically sleeps during the night, while providing care during the day. In contrast, 24-hour home care involves multiple caregivers working in shifts to provide round-the-clock support, including overnight care.

Can 24-hour home care be customized to suit specific needs?

Yes, 24-hour home care is easy to personalize. Whether your loved one needs help with daily activities or more complex medical care, the service can be tailored to their specific needs.

Is 24-hour care covered by insurance or Medicare?

Medicare typically does not cover 24-hour home care, but some long-term care insurance policies may. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to understand what’s covered and what isn’t.

How do I know if my loved one needs 24-hour care?

If your loved one’s medical condition is deteriorating, they need assistance with daily tasks, or they’re at risk of injury without constant supervision, it might be time to consider 24-hour care.

Contact BrightStar Care of Danvers Today! 

Feeling confident in the help your loved one is receiving doesn’t have to be difficult. Our team is here to ease the burden by providing high-quality, compassionate home care.

So, whether you’re ready to begin 24-hour home care or just want a few weekly check-ins, we’d love to meet with you and create a personalized care plan for your family.

BrightStar Care of Danvers/North Shore provides the resources and support you need to care for your loved one. If you have any questions or would like more information, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are always happy to help. Contact us online or by phone at (978) 595-1397 and by visiting us at 300 Rosewood Dr, Suite 103, Danvers, MA 01923.