Choosing the right shift is just as important as choosing the right person. Too little cover leaves the patient at risk; too much can stretch the family budget. Here's how to decide.
12-hour day shift
Suits patients who sleep through the night and have a family member at home in the evening. The attendant helps with bathing, meals, medicines, walking and appointments during the day.
12-hour night shift
Ideal when family members manage the day but are exhausted by night-time care — for example, patients who need turning, washroom help or supervision at night, including people with dementia who wake and wander.
24-hour care
For high-dependency patients — bedridden, post-stroke, on oxygen or tube feeding. Two staff work alternating 12-hour shifts so the patient always has a rested, alert caretaker.
Live-in caretaker
A single caretaker lives in the home with agreed rest and sleep hours. Works well for elders who need company and help through the day but don't need active care all night.
| Situation | Suggested option |
|---|---|
| Elder alone during work hours | 12-hour day shift |
| Family exhausted by night waking | 12-hour night shift |
| Fully bedridden or high-dependency patient | 24-hour care (2 staff) |
| Elder needing company and light help | Live-in caretaker |
Not sure? Contact us — we'll suggest the option that fits your patient and budget. See all home care services.
About the author: This guide was written by the care team at Patient Care Taker, a home care agency providing trained caretakers and nurses in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. It is for general information and does not replace medical advice.
