24-Hour Elderly Care at Home: What Families Need to Know
When 24-Hour Care Becomes Necessary
24-hour elderly care at home becomes essential when the elderly person cannot be left alone even briefly. Typical cases: advanced dementia or Alzheimer's, fall risk, bedridden patients, post-surgical recovery.
How Shifts Are Organized
- 2-caregiver model: Day shift (07:00-19:00) + night shift (19:00-07:00)
- 3-caregiver model: 8-hour shifts with days off, more sustainable long-term
- Live-in + relief: Primary caregiver with a substitute 2 days/week
Rotating caregivers reduces burnout and maintains care quality.
Alzheimer's and Dementia Care
Caring for dementia patients requires specialized training: communication techniques, behavioral management (wandering, agitation), routines that reduce confusion, space safety measures.
Safety Protocols
Every 24-hour care plan must include:
- Fall prevention (railings, non-slip surfaces, night lighting)
- Emergency protocol (ambulance, hospital, physician)
- Medication log with administration times
- Daily family communication
Cost of 24-Hour Care
Monthly cost ranges: €1,800-2,500 for 2-caregiver model, €2,500-3,500 for 3-caregiver model. A nursing home costs €1,500-3,000/month but without personalized care. See our cost guide for comparison.
Need 24-Hour Care?
ST.RIVE organizes caregiver teams with shift rotation, specialization, and replacement guarantee. Request a care plan →