Choosing a Care Home Over Home Care: A Guide for Families
When it comes to supporting an ageing loved one, many families find themselves at a crossroads—do you opt for care at home, or consider the move into a residential care home? If you’re exploring the benefits of choosing a care home over home care, you’re not alone. It’s a deeply emotional decision, often driven by love, concern, and the desire to do what’s best for someone who means the world to you.
Understanding the Emotional Dilemma
“Home is where the heart is”—a phrase we all know, and one that rings especially true when considering care. Home offers familiarity and comfort, but when daily life becomes a challenge—cooking, personal hygiene, medications, mobility—home care may not always be enough. Even with support from visiting carers, it’s often family members who shoulder the burden.
Many adult children feel torn between providing hands-on help and juggling their own responsibilities—work, children, their own wellbeing. The result? Guilt, exhaustion, and the nagging fear of not doing enough. Choosing a care home like Redlands can transform that relationship. You’re no longer a carer—you’re a daughter, son or spouse again. Free to simply be present, to laugh and connect without worry.
The Hidden Costs of Home Care
At first glance, home care may seem like the gentler option. But beneath the surface, there are significant costs—financial, emotional, and practical. Visiting carers often work within tight timeframes. Laundry, meal preparation, personal hygiene, medication, emotional companionship—these aren’t always fully covered.
- Regular appointments and care schedules may feel rushed
- Home maintenance continues to demand attention—cleaning, gardening, upkeep
- Family members still act as backup carers, which limits their time and peace of mind
In contrast, life in a residential care home is fully inclusive. At Redlands, our residents enjoy round-the-clock support, freshly prepared meals, enriching activities and most importantly, human connection. Everything is taken care of—so you don’t have to.
Why Families Choose Redlands in Hellesdon, Norwich
With over 30 years of experience, Redlands House is proud to be a trusted part of the Norfolk community. We’re not a chain—we’re independently owned, and that makes all the difference. Our team is more like a family, many of whom have been with us for decades. That loyalty speaks volumes. It means continuity of care, familiar faces, and relationships built on trust and compassion.
We offer more than care—we offer community. There’s always something happening at Redlands, from musical afternoons and creative workshops to simple, joyful moments over tea and biscuits. Our mission is simple: to bring love, laughter and genuine warmth to every single day.
The Key Benefits of Choosing a Care Home
- 24/7 Professional Support – From personal care to medication and mobility, we’re here around the clock.
- Peace of Mind – No more late-night worries. Just the reassurance that your loved one is safe and happy.
- Companionship and Activities – A vibrant community of peers, with meaningful connections and laughter every day.
- Nutritious Home-Cooked Meals – No more solo dinners. Just good food, made with care and served with a smile.
- Freedom for Families – Reconnect with your loved one without the stress of caregiving.
When Is the Right Time to Consider a Move?
There’s no perfect time—but there is a right one. If you’re starting to feel overwhelmed or notice your loved one struggling with daily tasks, it might be time to explore the benefits of residential care. Many families tell us they wish they’d made the decision sooner. Their only regret? Waiting.
Visit Us and Feel the Difference
We invite you to come and see Redlands House for yourself. Walk through our bright, friendly spaces. Talk to our team. Meet our residents. Experience the joy, the laughter, the genuine sense of home. We’re proud of what we’ve built—and we’d love to share it with you.
Book a tour today or download our brochure to learn more.
Further Reading
For more on weighing care options, Age UK has an excellent guide on home care versus care homes.