Adapting Homes for Live-In Care: Practical Tips for Families

When a loved one begins receiving live-in care, creating a safe and comfortable home environment is essential. Live-in care allows individuals to remain in their own homes while receiving one-to-one support, but some adjustments may be needed to ensure their surroundings are accessible, secure, and suited to their care needs. Whether it’s making small modifications or investing in specialist equipment, adapting the home can improve quality of life and help carers provide the best support possible.

Here are some practical tips for families looking to create a safe and supportive home for live-in care.

Assessing the Home for Accessibility

Before making any changes, it’s important to assess the home to identify potential challenges. Consider whether doorways are wide enough for mobility aids, whether stairs present a problem and if essential areas like the bathroom and kitchen are easily accessible. A professional home assessment from an occupational therapist or a care provider can help highlight areas for improvement and ensure the home is well-suited to your loved one’s needs.

Creating a Comfortable Living Space for the Carer

A live-in carer requires their own private space within the home where they can rest and have personal time. A spare bedroom with a comfortable bed, storage and access to a bathroom is ideal. Providing a welcoming and well-equipped space helps carers feel at home and ensures they can continue delivering high-quality care while maintaining their own well-being.

Improving Bathroom Safety

The bathroom can be one of the most challenging areas for those with reduced mobility, but simple adaptations can make a significant difference. Consider installing:

• Grab rails near the toilet and shower

• A walk-in shower or bath with a seat

• Anti-slip flooring to reduce fall risks

• A raised toilet seat for easier use

These modifications can enhance safety and allow your loved one to maintain independence while carrying out personal care tasks.

Ensuring a Safe and Accessible Bedroom

The bedroom should be a comfortable and practical space, particularly if your loved one has limited mobility or requires assistance during the night. Adjustable beds can provide extra comfort and make it easier for carers to assist with transfers. Positioning furniture to allow for easy movement and ensuring the room is well-lit can also improve safety.

For those who require night-time monitoring, a call bell or sensor system can provide reassurance that help is always available.

Enhancing Mobility Throughout the Home

If your loved one uses a wheelchair, walking aid or has difficulty moving around, some simple modifications can help them navigate their home more easily. These may include:

• Installing ramps or stair lifts if there are multiple levels

• Removing trip hazards such as loose rugs and clutter

• Widening doorways, if necessary, for wheelchair access

• Ensuring all essential items are within easy reach

By making these changes, you can create a home environment that supports both independence and safety.

Adapting the Kitchen for Accessibility

The kitchen should be set up to allow your loved one to participate in meal preparation if they wish, while also being easy for the carer to use. Consider:

• Lowering worktops and sinks for wheelchair users

• Using easy-grip utensils and appliances with large buttons

• Ensuring frequently used items are stored at an accessible height

• Installing a kettle tipper or other adaptive kitchen aids

These small adjustments can allow your loved one to maintain their independence and continue enjoying everyday activities.

Using Technology for Additional Support

Technology can play a key role in supporting live-in care. Smart home devices such as voice-activated assistants, automated lighting and video doorbells can enhance safety and independence. Additionally, personal alarms, fall detectors and medication reminders can provide extra security and peace of mind.

Creating a Dementia-Friendly Home

If your loved one is living with dementia, additional adaptations can help reduce confusion and improve safety. These may include:

• Clear signage on doors to identify rooms easily

• Simple, contrasting colours to help with depth perception

• Lockable cabinets for potentially hazardous items

• Clocks with large displays to assist with time awareness

A calm, structured environment can support cognitive function and make daily life easier for those with dementia.

Supporting Emotional Well-Being

While practical changes are important, emotional well-being should also be a priority. Keeping familiar objects, photographs and favourite decorations in place can provide reassurance and maintain a sense of home. Creating cosy, inviting spaces for relaxation and social interaction can also improve mood and overall happiness.

Making the Transition Smooth

Adjusting to live-in care can take time, both for the individual receiving care and their family. Open communication with the carer, involving your loved one in home adjustments and allowing time for everyone to settle into the new routine can help make the transition as smooth as possible.

Providing the Best Home Environment for Live-In Care

Adapting a home for live-in care doesn’t have to be overwhelming - small changes can make a big difference in creating a safe, accessible and comfortable living space. Whether it’s installing mobility aids, making the home dementia-friendly or setting up a private area for the carer, these adjustments help ensure your loved one receives the best possible support while remaining in familiar surroundings.