For families · 13 July 2026
It is one of the biggest decisions a family faces, and there is no universal right answer — only the right answer for one person, at one point in time. Here is a framework that may help.
Start with what the person wants.
It sounds obvious, and it is the step most often skipped. Most older people say they want to remain in their own home for as long as possible — surrounded by their own things, their neighbours, their routines. That preference carries real weight, both emotionally and under the principles of person-centred care.
Then look honestly at needs.
Home care suits people who need support with daily living — personal care, medication prompts, meals, companionship — from a visit a day up to several visits, or even live-in care. A care home becomes the safer option when someone needs supervision around the clock that visits cannot provide, or when nursing needs are constant.
Consider the home itself.
Can it be adapted? Stairlifts, grab rails, a downstairs bathroom and community equipment can extend independence for years. Your council's occupational therapy service can assess this — ask for it as part of a care needs assessment under the Care Act 2014, which is free regardless of income.
Think about loneliness both ways.
Care homes offer built-in company, which suits some people wonderfully. Others find losing their own front door harder than any practical challenge. Home care with genuine companionship, family visits and community links can be less isolating than an unfamiliar communal setting — or more, depending on the person. Be honest about which is true for yours.
Count the costs fairly.
Care home fees include accommodation; home care does not, but the person keeps their home and its running costs. Funding rules also differ between the two. Before comparing numbers, get the free needs assessment and read our Costs and Funding guide — many families pay more than they need to simply because nobody told them what support exists.
It does not have to be forever.
Care evolves. Many people start with a few home care visits a week and adjust as needs change. Making the least restrictive choice now does not close the door on other options later.
If you are weighing this decision for someone in Swanley, Sevenoaks, Dartford, Bexley or Bromley, our Support Hub has free guides written for exactly this moment — and when our home care service launches following CQC registration, we will be glad to talk honestly about whether it is right for your family.