How to prepare for a live‑in care placement at home
Choosing live‑in care for a loved one is a big step - one that can provide comfort, independence, and peace of mind. But to make it work well, the home needs to be set up thoughtfully for both the person receiving care and the carer. At Gladys, we support families in Bath, Bristol, Bournemouth and across the South West to arrange live‑in care. Here’s a practical guide on how to prepare your home for a live‑in carer.
🛏 Requirements for Carers’ Space and Privacy
A live‑in carer will be spending significant time in your home, so it’s important to create a space where they feel welcome and comfortable.
- Dedicated Bedroom: Provide a clean, furnished room with a bed, wardrobe, and storage space. Ideally, the carer should also have access to a private or shared bathroom.
- Wi‑Fi Access: Reliable internet helps carers stay connected with their own families during breaks.
- Boundaries and Privacy: Make sure both the family and the carer agree on which spaces are private versus shared.
💡 In Bath and Bournemouth, where many homes are period properties, think about practical upgrades such as blackout curtains or a small desk if space allows.
🔐 Security, Accessibility, and Routines
Ensuring the home is safe and accessible benefits both your loved one and their carer.
- Home Safety Checks: Remove trip hazards, ensure good lighting in hallways, and consider grab rails in bathrooms.
- Accessibility: If your loved one has mobility issues, a downstairs bedroom or stair lift may make life easier.
- Emergency Procedures: Make sure carers have access to house keys, alarms, and contact numbers for emergencies.
- Routines: Share important daily routines, such as meal times, medication schedules, and preferred activities.
💡 Families in Bristol and Bath often ask whether carers should have their own keys — the answer is yes, so they can safely support your loved one at all hours.
📐 Example Layout Suggestions
Making small adjustments to the home’s layout can make a big difference:
- Bedroom: Ideally, position the carer’s room near (but not directly next to) the client’s to allow quick access if needed while preserving privacy.
- Bathroom: If no spare bathroom is available, agree on shared use and schedule times to avoid conflict.
- Living Areas: Create a quiet shared space where the carer and your loved one can enjoy companionship without feeling “on duty” 24/7.
- Kitchen: Ensure carers have space for their own food and clear guidance on meals they’re expected to prepare.
💬 Communication & Shared Expectations
Open communication is the key to a successful live‑in care arrangement.
- House Rules: Discuss expectations around visitors, TV use, smoking/vaping, and quiet hours.
- Daily Check‑Ins: Set a regular time (perhaps after breakfast) to review the day’s plan.
- Feedback Loop: Encourage carers to share updates on your loved one’s wellbeing, and give them the chance to raise any concerns.
- Family Involvement: Agree on how often family will visit or check in, so the carer feels supported, not isolated.
💡 At Gladys, we recommend a written “Welcome Guide” for carers — a simple folder covering emergency contacts, routines, and house notes.
🌿 Final Thoughts
Preparing your home for a live‑in carer may take some planning, but the rewards are worth it: peace of mind, a safe environment, and the chance for your loved one to stay in the comfort of their own home.
If you’re in Bath, Bristol, Bournemouth, or the surrounding South West, Gladys can help match you with a kind, qualified carer — and guide you every step of the way in preparing your home.
👉 Contact Gladys today to discuss how we can support your family.
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