Navigating Support Options for an Elderly Relative
Coming home from hospital after an illness or operation can be a worrying time—for both the individual and their family. While discharge is a positive step, it often raises important questions about safety, recovery, and ongoing support at home.
Many people are offered an NHS reablement package after leaving hospital. This typically provides short-term, live-out support with daily tasks and personal care to help with recovery and rebuilding independence.
Reablement support usually lasts up to six weeks. After this period, families often need to consider longer-term options to ensure their loved one remains safe, supported, and less likely to be readmitted to hospital.
Below are some of the most common support options:
- Personal Care Package
For individuals who require ongoing personal care, a domiciliary care package can be arranged through a care agency. This typically involves 2–4 visits per day, delivered by a small team of carers, with the agency managing scheduling and continuity.
In addition to personal care, carers may assist with simple meals, such as heating prepared food.
Example cost (2-hour visit): from £50
For those who do not require complex personal care—or who already have a separate care package—but would benefit from consistent, practical help around the home, this option offers more flexible, one-to-one support.
Tasks can include shopping, cooking, light cleaning, dog walking, admin support, gardening, and general assistance. Visits are usually arranged directly with the same helper, providing continuity and a more personal service.
Example cost (2-hour visit): £39.60
- Live-in 24/7 Carer
This option is suitable for individuals with higher care needs who require continuous support and supervision. A live-in carer provides round-the-clock assistance, with a daily break (typically around three hours).
Example cost (per week): from £1,150
* Source: Eldercare, December 2025
** The householder is usually responsible for providing food for the carer
Homeshare is a low-cost option for those who would benefit from reassurance and companionship, as well as some practical help.
A ‘Sharer’ lives in a spare room and provides up to 10 hours of support per week, helping with tasks such as shopping, cooking, light cleaning, and errands. They also offer companionship, which can be just as valuable as practical help.
Please note: Sharers do not provide personal care (such as dressing or administering medication); a separate care package can be sit alongside this service.
Example cost (per week): £38
* The sharer pays for their own food and may contribute up to £15/week towards household bills
If you’d like to discuss the best option for your relative, we’re happy to help—please get in touch for a no-obligation chat.
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