20 August 2026 · 6 min read
Preparing Your Home for Live-in Care
A simple checklist to help a family get the home ready before a live-in carer moves in.
Once you have chosen live-in care, getting the home ready helps the first placement start smoothly. Most preparations are practical and low-cost, but a little planning goes a long way.
A private bedroom for the carer
Live-in carers need a clean, private room with a bed, storage and access to a bathroom. It does not need to be large, but it should be comfortable and separate enough for rest during breaks.
Safety and accessibility
- Remove loose rugs, trailing cables and clutter from walkways.
- Make sure the home is well lit, especially on stairs and at night.
- Check that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors work.
- If mobility is limited, consider grab rails, a shower chair or a walking frame.
Household information
Leave clear notes about routines, food preferences, allergies, emergency contacts and how appliances work. The carer can then step in without guessing the basics.
Personal space and dignity
The person receiving care may need time to adjust to sharing their home. A good carer will respect privacy and build trust gradually. Families can help by setting clear boundaries and checking in regularly.
Need help getting started?
CareSetup can guide you through home preparation as part of the placement process. Call us on 07727 304424 or request a free care assessment through our website.