Understanding Home-Based Support for Independent Living
As our loved ones grow older or face health challenges, the need for extra support often arises. But that doesn’t mean they need to leave the comfort of their home. For many families, domiciliary care offers the perfect balance of professional support and personal independence allowing individuals to live safely and comfortably in familiar surroundings.
In this guide, we’ll explore what domiciliary care is, who it’s for, what services it includes, and why it’s becoming a preferred choice for care in Northern Ireland.
1. What Is Domiciliary Care?
Domiciliary care sometimes called home care refers to a range of care services provided in a person’s own home. It’s designed to support people who need help with daily tasks but wish to remain in their familiar environment rather than moving into a care facility or residential home.
This type of care can be short-term or long-term, occasional or continuous, completely tailored to the individual’s needs.
At Visiting Angels Northern Ireland, domiciliary care is all about respect, dignity, and independence. Our trained caregivers visit clients in their homes to deliver support in a way that’s compassionate, consistent, and customised.
2. Who Is Domiciliary Care For?
Domiciliary care is ideal for:
- Older adults needing help with everyday activities
- People living with dementia or Alzheimer’s
- Adults with physical disabilities or mobility issues
- Individuals recovering from surgery or hospital stays
- People with chronic illnesses who need support managing conditions
- Those who simply need companionship or a helping hand at home
Whether someone requires assistance for an hour a day or full-time support, domiciliary care adapts to what they need and when they need it.
3. What Services Does Domiciliary Care Include?
Domiciliary care is person-centred, meaning services are based on individual preferences and health needs. Common services include:
Personal Care
- Assistance with bathing, dressing, and grooming
- Help using the toilet or managing continence
- Support with mobility and moving around the home
- Oral hygiene and skincare routines
Meal Preparation & Nutrition
- Preparing healthy meals based on dietary needs
- Encouraging regular hydration and nutrition
- Support with feeding where necessary
Medication Assistance
- Reminders to take prescribed medication
- Recording of medication taken (if part of the care plan)
- Liaising with family or health professionals if any issues arise
Household Help
- Light cleaning, laundry, and tidying
- Shopping and running errands
- Pet care and other daily living tasks
Companionship & Emotional Support
- Engaging in conversation or hobbies
- Going for short walks or outings
- Reducing feelings of loneliness or isolation
At Visiting Angels, we also provide:
- Dementia care
- Live-in care
- Overnight support
- Palliative care – all within the scope of domiciliary services.
4. The Benefits of Domiciliary Care
There are many reasons why families choose domiciliary care over other types of support:
Staying at Home
The comfort and familiarity of home can make a world of difference. It can reduce stress, improve mental health, and help maintain routines that are meaningful to the individual.
Maintaining Independence
Clients stay in control of their lifestyle. From deciding when they wake up to choosing their meals, domiciliary care supports independence with a safety net.
Flexible and Personalised
Unlike care homes, domiciliary care is completely bespoke. Visits can be as short as 1 hour or as long as 24/7 live-in care.
Continuity of Care
With providers like Visiting Angels, we ensure continuity by matching the same caregiver to same client wherever possible. This builds trust and familiarity, something that’s especially important for those with dementia or anxiety.
Family Peace of Mind
Loved ones can rest easy knowing that a trained, compassionate professional is there to support their family member while keeping them safe and well in their own home.
5. How Is Domiciliary Care Arranged?
The process is simple and collaborative:
- Initial Consultation – A friendly care manager visits the home to understand needs, lifestyle, and preferences.
- Tailored Care Plan – A detailed, personalised plan is created based on medical conditions, routines, personality, and family input.
- Caregiver Matching – We match each client with a compatible caregiver based on skills and personal fit.
- Ongoing Monitoring – Regular reviews are conducted to ensure the care remains appropriate as needs evolve.
At Visiting Angels, we offer free, no-obligation consultations to walk families through options and answer questions.
How Is Domiciliary Care Different from Other Care Options?
| Care Type | Location | Level of Personalisation | Cost Flexibility | Emotional Comfort |
| Residential Care Home | Away from home | Standardised care | Fixed monthly fees | May feel institutional |
| Domiciliary Care | In your own home | Highly personalised | Pay-as-you-go | Familiar, comfortable |
| Live-in Care | In your own home | Full-time personalised care | Costly but inclusive | Maximum independence |
Domiciliary care is often the first step in the care journey and for many, it’s the only step they need.
7. Is Domiciliary Care Affordable?
Yes. One of the strengths of domiciliary care is its affordability and flexibility.
You only pay for the time and services you use. There are no large upfront fees, and no additional costs for accommodation, meals, or facility maintenance like in care homes.
Many families also qualify for government funding or direct payments through their local Health and Social Care Trust (HSCT), helping cover or offset the cost of care.
At Visiting Angels, we offer clear, transparent pricing, and we help families explore funding options where applicable.
Final Thoughts
Domiciliary care is about more than support, it’s about freedom, respect, and dignity. It allows people to stay in their homes, live life on their own terms, and receive the assistance they need with warmth and professionalism.
At Visiting Angels Northern Ireland, we are proud to deliver domiciliary care that puts people first. Whether your loved one needs an hour a week or round-the-clock care, we’re here to help them feel safe, valued, and independent at home.
Want to learn more?
Get in touch with our friendly team today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Call us on 02890029123 or email belfast@visiting-angels.co.uk to book a free care consultation.
Let’s explore the best care options for your loved one at a cost that works for you.