If you are helping a parent or partner with day to day tasks, you may already be doing a form of care at home. The language can feel confusing though. Is it home care, domiciliary care, live in care, or something else
entirely? In this guide, you will find clear explanations, simple examples, and gentle advice to help you choose the right support for your family. You will also see how our QCAS approved Personal Assistants provide
consistent, person centred care that protects independence and dignity.

What is it called when you take care of the elderly at home?
Most people call it home care or domiciliary care. Both terms describe professional support delivered in the person’s own home. Help might be as light as a friendly hour for companionship and a walk to the shops, or as
involved as daily personal care, medication prompts, meal preparation, support with washing and dressing, and transport to appointments. If a family member is the primary carer and a professional steps in so they can
rest, that is called respite care.
At Hub Care Support, we match you with independent Personal Assistants who provide senior care at home in a way that fits your routine, personality, and preferences. You choose the days, the times, and the type of help.
We prioritise consistency so you see the same smiling faces, which builds trust and makes life feel steadier.

Home care and live in care, what is the difference?
Home care, sometimes called hourly care or visiting care, means a PA comes at agreed times, for example breakfast and lunch on weekdays, or an evening visit for medication and supper. It suits people who are
independent for parts of the day but benefit from regular, reliable support.
Live in care means a PA lives in the home and provides round the clock reassurance. This can include help during the night, support with continence, and a quick response if a person wakes anxious or disorientated. Live in
care works well when someone needs frequent prompts, has complex routines, or would be safer with continuous presence.
Think of the difference like this. Hourly care is flexible, scheduled help that slots into your day. Live in care is a constant, supportive companion who shapes their day around yours.

What do private carers and Personal Assistants do?
Private carers and Personal Assistants provide a wide range of help, always tailored. Common tasks include:
Companionship, conversation, and gentle encouragement
Personal care such as washing, bathing, dressing, and toileting
Dementia support with calm routines and reassurance
Meal planning and preparation that respects cultural and dietary needs
Medication reminders and prompts
Light housework and laundry; tidying and decluttering if helpful
Shopping, errands, and transport to GP, hospital, or social activities
Support with hobbies, community groups, and staying active
Pet care, for example dog walking or vet trips
Help with paperwork and day to day admin
Every PA we introduce is QCAS approved. That means a live, conviction free enhanced DBS; all 19 mandatory training modules recommended by Skills for Care; manually checked references; right to work and ID verified;
and full insurance. You get the warmth of a consistent person with the reassurance of strong professional standards.

Real life scenarios that keep independence at the centre
Morning start with dignity: Mr S likes to wash and dress himself but finds buttons difficult. His PA arrives at 8am, lays out clothes, supports safe transfers, and preps porridge and tea. Mr S finishes the last steps
independently and feels in control of his morning.
Living well with dementia: Mrs T becomes unsettled late afternoon. Her PA visits from 3pm to 7pm to offer calm company, a walk if the weather is good, and a familiar supper. Gentle conversation, hand holding,
and a set routine reduce anxiety. Evenings feel peaceful again.
Keeping life connected: The Ahmed family care for their mum most days, but need a break on Sundays. A PA provides respite for six hours so the family can rest, while Mum enjoys baking, music, and a safe trip to
the park.
Recovering after a fall: Mr and Mrs K choose short term live in care after a hip operation. The PA manages night time toileting, pain medication prompts, and safe exercises from the physio. After four weeks, they
step down to hourly visits.

How do you know which option is right for you?
Start with three simple questions:

What does a safe, good day look like for your loved one, from morning to night?

When are the tricky moments, for example getting up, bathing, or late afternoon confusion?

How much support does the family want to provide, and where would a trusted PA make life easier?

If your loved one manages well for long stretches but needs help at set times, hourly home care usually fits. If safety, continence, or anxiety needs attention across the day and night, live in care offers continuous
reassurance. If you are a family carer who needs a regular break to stay well, you may benefit from respite care at home that gives you time to rest while your loved one enjoys consistent support.
We are always happy to talk this through at your pace. There is no pressure or obligation, just a friendly local team who will listen and guide.

Consistency that feels like family
Seeing the same PA makes a world of difference. They learn the little details, from the right biscuit with tea to the best way to support bathing while preserving privacy. Routines become smoother, confidence grows, and
small setbacks feel easier to handle. This is why we take time to match you carefully and why we offer continuity wherever possible, whether for visiting care or live in arrangements.

How Hub Care Support can help
We listen carefully to your needs and preferences.
We introduce QCAS approved PAs with the right skills and personality.
You choose who you work with, the schedule, and the tasks.
We support a smooth start and stay in touch to make sure the plan continues to work for you.
Many families tell us they feel lighter after the first conversation. A little help at the right moment can relieve worry and give everyone breathing room.

Gentle guidance on funding and control
Some clients use direct payments to arrange their own care. Others pay privately. Because our PAs are independent, you have more choice over who supports you and how. We can talk you through practicalities, including
matching, rates that reflect experience and tasks, and any changes as needs evolve.
If you are exploring options or simply want to understand what is respite care, our team can answer questions and suggest next steps that suit your situation.

Summary, words that make decisions easier
Caring for an older loved one at home is usually called home care or domiciliary care.
Home care provides scheduled help; live in care provides continuous support.
Private carers and Personal Assistants offer companionship, personal care, meal prep, medication prompts, transport, and more.
The right option depends on daily routines, safety, and how much help you want around you.
Consistency matters. A well matched PA brings stability, dignity, and confidence.

If you would like warm, practical advice, contact our local team. We will help you find language that fits your family and introduce Personal Assistants who deliver thoughtful, consistent care at home.

Internal resources that may help: learn more about home care support, or explore what is respite care if you are a family carer who needs a break. https://hubcaresupport.co.uk/how-it-works/