If you’re starting to explore care options for yourself or a loved one, you’ve probably come across some mixed messages. Many people assume that moving into a care home is the only way to get reliable support, or that homecare is just for a quick check-in. In reality, modern homecare, also called domiciliary care, offers a wide range of flexible, personalised support that can make all the difference to families.
At Avanti Homecare, we often hear the same questions and concerns from families. In this post, we’re setting the record straight by busting some of the most common myths about homecare.
Myth 1: Homecare is only for people with very basic needs
Many families think homecare is just about popping in to make a cup of tea or help with the shopping. While that’s part of it, at Avanti Homecare, we also cover:
- Help with personal care (washing, dressing, grooming)
- Medication administration
- Mobility assistance
- End of Life care
- Dementia care
- Complex care tasks such as catheter and stoma care
- Companionship and emotional support
- Support after a hospital stay
- Helping those recovering from falls and strokes
- Chronic illnesses and diabetes
The truth: Homecare is incredibly flexible. Whether someone needs a little extra help each day, or more specialised support after an illness, care at home can be tailored to match those needs. Avanti Homecare offers a personalised care assessment for all new clients to ensure that the correct care can be given to suit individual needs.
Myth 2: You won’t see the same carers
A common worry is that different carers will turn up each day, making it hard to build trust. At Avanti, our approach is the opposite: we aim for continuity and consistency. Our 2025 client survey results found that 98% of clients know their regular carers by name, and the majority see the same familiar faces every week.
The truth: Good homecare isn’t about strangers at the door. It’s about building genuine relationships, so that carers feel more like extended family. One client’s son told us that our carers “don’t just help Dad with medication, they’ve become friends he looks forward to seeing”.
Myth 3: Homecare is less safe than a care home
Some people assume that living at home means being at greater risk of falls or emergencies. In fact, with the right support, homecare can be one of the safest options:
- Carers check on wellbeing daily, spotting early warning signs before problems escalate.
- Families get peace of mind that someone reliable is looking in.
- Home adaptations and falls-prevention routines keep people mobile and independent.
The truth: Staying at home, surrounded by familiar routines, can actually reduce risks, especially when carers are trained to notice changes quickly.
Myth 4: Homecare is just for older people
It’s easy to assume that homecare only applies to older adults. But people of all ages may benefit, including those recovering from surgery, managing long-term conditions, or living with disabilities.
The truth: Homecare is about support, not age. Anyone who wants to live independently but needs a helping hand could benefit.
Myth 5: Families lose control of decisions
Some worry that once carers are involved, families hand over their decision-making authority. In reality, the opposite is true as homecare works best when it’s collaborative. Clients and their families are closely involved in care planning, and carers adjust their support to fit routines, preferences, and goals.
The truth: Families stay in the driver’s seat. Carers are there to enable independence, not take it away. Our family care app helps families stay connected and updated 24/7, ensuring peace of mind. Another our clients’ relatives expressed their relief after starting the homecare journey, “I was nervous about arranging care, but now I realise how much it helps Mum stay independent“.
Myth 6: Care at home isn’t personal enough
Unlike larger settings, where care is shared among many residents, homecare is completely centred on one person at a time. Carers get to know people’s quirks, hobbies, and preferences, from how they like their tea to which crossword they enjoy in the morning.
The truth: Homecare is highly personal and flexible as it’s about supporting someone’s lifestyle, not changing it. It allows for continuity, which has been praised by a client of ours, “The continuity has been amazing, we see the same carers, and they know us all by name”.
Myth 7: It’s too expensive compared to other options
Cost is always a concern when exploring care. While care homes may provide accommodation and 24/7 support, they also come with higher costs and a complete lifestyle change. Homecare allows people to stay in their own home, keep their independence, and choose how much or little support they pay for.
The truth: Homecare can be more affordable than many people expect, especially if only certain times of day or specific tasks require support.
The Real Benefits of Homecare
Once the myths are out of the way, the advantages of homecare really shine:
Independence – staying in your own home, with your routines and comforts intact.
Family peace of mind – knowing that loved ones are supported by people who care.
Continuity and trust – familiar carers who understand small details that make life easier.
Flexibility – care can increase or decrease depending on changing needs.
Companionship – carers don’t just provide practical help, they also provide friendship and social connection.
Choosing care is one of the biggest decisions families face. Myths and misconceptions can make it harder, but the reality is that homecare can offer independence, flexibility, and reassurance in ways many people don’t expect.
At Avanti, we’re proud to show that smart, compassionate homecare really does make a difference. Whether it’s supporting recovery after hospital, providing daily reassurance, or simply sharing a cup of tea, our carers are here to walk beside families every step of the way.
A huge thank you from all the team at
