Need 24/7 care for a loved one in Seattle? Whether it’s after surgery, due to dementia, or simply aging alone, families are often torn between two options: live-in care and 24-hour hourly care.

This guide breaks down the pros, cons, and costs of both—so you can make the best decision for your family’s needs and budget.

When 24/7 Home Care Becomes Essential

Seattle families often realize they need round-the-clock care after:

• A hospital or ICU discharge

• A serious fall or injury

• Escalating memory issues or nighttime wandering

• A loved one can no longer be left alone, even briefly

At that point, you have two main choices:

1. Live-In Care – One caregiver lives in the home and provides daily help

2. 24-Hour Hourly Care – Multiple caregivers rotate in shifts to provide constant awake coverage

What Is Live-In Care?

Live-in care involves a single caregiver who stays in the home, typically with a private sleeping area. They:

• Assist with bathing, dressing, meals, medication, and mobility

• Sleep overnight but are available for occasional wake-ups

• Usually work 3–4 consecutive days before rotating with another caregiver

✅ Best for:

• Stable, low-acuity needs (e.g., fall prevention, companionship)

• Families with a spare bedroom

• Loved ones who sleep through the night

❗ Important:

Live-in care does not mean the caregiver is awake 24/7. If overnight supervision is needed, hourly care is a better fit.

What Is 24-Hour Hourly Care?

24-hour care uses two or three rotating caregivers working 8–12-hour shifts—ensuring someone is always awake and alert.

✅ Best for:

• Dementia patients with frequent nighttime needs

• Post-stroke or post-ICU recovery

• Families without a spare bedroom

• Those at risk of wandering, falling, or medical emergencies

❗ Important:

While more expensive, this is the safest option when true overnight alertness is needed.

Cost Comparison: Live-In vs 24-Hour Hourly Care in Seattle (2025 Rates)

💡 Live-in care is roughly 40–60% more affordable, but only suitable when overnight care isn’t constant.

👉 Talk to our Seattle care team to find out what’s actually needed—we won’t upsell you.

Which Type of 24/7 Care Is Right for Your Family?

Still unsure? Our local experts will help you assess your exact needs—without pressure.

Why Seattle Families Choose Caringene

We’re not a franchise. We’re your local, fast-moving, human-first care team.

• Rates starting at $35/hour

• Live-in and hourly options available

• Custom care plans for Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, and all of King County

• Start care within 24 hours of your inquiry

• No contracts. No hidden fees. No nonsense.

👉 Meet our team | Explore our services

FAQs: Live-In vs 24-Hour Care in Seattle

Is live-in care really 24/7?
No. The caregiver sleeps at night and is only available for occasional wake-ups. Choose hourly care for full overnight supervision.

Do I need to provide a room for live-in care?
Yes. Washington state requires a private bedroom and scheduled breaks for live-in caregivers.

Which is cheaper?
Live-in care is significantly more affordable—but not appropriate for advanced conditions or ICU-level needs.

Ready to Set Up 24/7 Support?

✅ Talk to a care advisor now
✅ Compare live-in vs hourly options
✅ Get a personalized care plan

Peace of Mind Starts Here

Your loved one deserves to feel safe, seen, and supported—day and night.
Let us help you build a care plan that works for your family and your budget.