A home is more than just four walls; it’s where anniversaries were toasted, children were raised, routines were built, and countless moments were shared. As people grow older it’s well documented that remaining in that familiar, love-filled space can make an enormous difference to wellbeing and happiness.

Home care, whether through gentle hourly visits or full-time live-in support, allows couples to continue living side by side in the place that holds their shared history. Instead of moving into a residential care setting with unfamiliar surroundings, and the possibility of being separated onto different floors or units, home care enables partners to stay together.

The gift of staying at home together

This Valentine’s Day, we’re celebrating all the wonderful couples we have helped over the last ten years. 

A shining example are a lovely couple who have moved from daily visiting care support to a full time live in carer as their needs have increased. Together, they raised their three children in the home they still cherish today, a place filled with memories, laughter, and love during their nearly 70 years of marriage.

Now in retirement, they enjoy watching their great-grandchildren play in the same garden their children once did. With two daughters in Kent and Staffordshire and a son living nearby in Watford, the family is close-knit and active. And with the support of Ashridge’s care team, Mr and Mrs S continue to live safely and happily in the comfort of their home.

“I really can’t praise Ashridge Homecare highly enough,” says Mrs S. “We simply couldn’t be at home without their help.”  And we all know that home is where the heart is.  

What exactly is care for couples? 

Care for couples involves providing medical, physical and emotional support for both partners. With responsibility for the wellbeing of two people, rather than one, care plans need to be thoughtfully tailored. This means considering: 

• Varying levels of care: Support can range from general elderly care to more specialised disability care, depending on each partner’s needs. This flexibility is vital as it ensures both partners receive the right level of support without compromising their independence.
• Individual medical and physical needs: Each partner’s health conditions, mobility, and daily care requirements need to be carefully assessed to ensure personalised support that meets their specific needs.
• Specialist care for complex conditions: Couples may need more focused support for illnesses such as dementia, cancer, or other long-term conditions. Specialist care ensures both partners are safe, comfortable, and emotionally supported every day. 
• Existing routines, hobbies, and activities: Maintaining familiar routines, shared hobbies, and social activities is just as important as physical wellbeing and safety. Care plans should be individually designed to respect each couple’s lifestyle. 

What are the different care options for couples? 

For partners who both need care, there are several options available. 

At-home care for couples is a popular option, and for good reason. Receiving care support at home means loving couples can stay together in familiar surroundings, whilst still receiving the care and support they need.

Hourly care for couples

Hourly care is a flexible at-home option where a carer visits for set periods during the day or week. Support can include everything from personal care to medication reminders, meal preparation, and everyday help around the home. Hourly care is best suited to couples who need assistance at specific times but still want their independence during the rest of the day.

For example, we support one lovely couple who have been married for many years and sadly the wife has been diagnosed with dementia. They manage perfectly fine most of the time, however in order for the husband to attend his weekly Rotary Club, a visiting carers stays in the house with his wife so he can enjoy his evening safe in the knowledge that his wife is safe and supported at home with a familiar face. 

Live-in care for couples 

Live-in care for couples means a dedicated carer moves into the home to provide round-the-clock support. This option is ideal for couples with more complex or ongoing care needs who wish to remain together at home. A live-in carer can support both partners with personal care, mobility, household tasks, and companionship, offering reassurance and peace of mind throughout the day. 

For example, we supported a farming family whose father was diagnosed with dementia. They had lived in the same property for over 50 years and he wanted to stay at home with his beloved wife and dogs. A compassionate live-in carer supported him to still have daily time spent outdoors on walks and drives in the countryside.

What are the advantages of at-home care options for couples? 

• Staying together: Couples can remain in the comfort of their own home without the risk of being separated due to differing care needs.
• Personalised elderly care: Support is tailored to each partner, including personal care, mobility assistance, dementia care, and medication management.
• Familiar surroundings: Remaining at home can reduce anxiety and confusion, particularly for older adults living with dementia or memory loss.
• Greater independence: Couples maintain control over daily routines, meals, and lifestyle choices.
• Emotional wellbeing: Being cared for together supports companionship, emotional security, and overall quality of life.

Live-in and hourly home care for couples with Ashridge Home Care

At Ashridge Home Care, we understand that caring for a couple isn’t one-size-fits-all. That’s why we create personalised care plans that fit around your loved ones’ routines, needs, and lifestyles.

Our holistic approach means we look after their physical, emotional, and social wellbeing, so that partnerships feel supported and valued. Whether it’s live-in care or flexible hourly visits, we help couples enjoy life at home together in comfort.  We have supported many families to live happily at home together continuing to create memories and enjoying the life they have built together. 

Want to find out more about how couples care could help your family? Get in touch with our team and get the ball rolling on your personalised care plan today.