Here's when home care might be the right step:

• You're juggling caregiving with work, family, and your own well-being
• Your loved one's needs are growing beyond what you can manage alone
• You're noticing signs of burnout, frustration, or fatigue
• You want a consistent, trusted partner to rely on
  
  

Home Instead Care Pros provide support that fits your routine—not the other way around. Whether it's meal prep, a walk, or help getting to appointments, our care is designed to enhance—not replace—your role.

You don't have to wait for a crisis. Most families who start care with us say they wish they had done it sooner.

There's no one-size-fits-all answer—but if your loved one wants to stay in their own home, in-home care can be the most personal, flexible, and reassuring option.

In-home care vs. assisted living

Assisted living can be great for those who want a communal setting and are ready to relocate. But if your loved one wants to stay at home, in-home care offers:

• One-on-one attention in familiar surroundings
• A flexible schedule that fits your lifestyle
• Support with meals, mobility, personal care, and companionship
• Help from Care Pros who get to know your loved one—building trust and routine
  

In-home care vs. hiring a private caregiver

Hiring an independent caregiver can seem less expensive—but it comes with risk. As the employer, you'd be responsible for payroll, insurance, and coverage when they can't show up.

With Home Instead, we handle everything:

• Professional hiring, training, and supervision
• Background checks, insurance, and 24/7 backup support
• Personalized matches and no long-term contracts
  
  

In-home care is all about helping your loved one stay independent, comfortable, and safe—right in the place they know and love. From simple companionship to specialized dementia support, our Care Pros are here to help make life easier.

1. We start with a conversation. We'll meet with you in your home—and listen closely. What does your loved one need help with? What do they enjoy? What's most important to them? This free consultation helps us create a customized care plan.
2. We build your care team. We'll match your loved one with a trained, compassionate Care Pro based on skills, schedule, and compatibility. Many of our Care Pros speak Spanish and bring years of experience supporting chronic conditions or memory care.
3. We start care quickly. We can often begin care within 48 hours. Services may include bathing, dressing, transportation, meal prep, medication reminders, and more. We also offer 24-hour care, dementia support, and hospice assistance.
4. We stay connected. Our Crystal Lake office is available 24/7 for support. Your dedicated Care Manager will stay in touch to make sure everything's working—and adjust care as needs change.
   
   

It's care on your terms. Ready to get started?

At Home Instead, we don't just send a caregiver—we introduce you to a Care Pro. It's a title we take seriously, because our team members bring more than just help—they bring heart, consistency, and respect for the life your loved one has built.

• They're trained and trustworthy. Each Care Pro goes through a thorough background check, drug screening, and extensive training—including how to support Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and chronic health conditions.
• They're employees—not contractors. That means we handle taxes, scheduling, and supervision. We also provide liability insurance and workers' comp, so you're fully protected.
• They're matched with care. We take time to match each Care Pro based on your loved one's personality, preferences, and needs. It's not just about filling a shift—it's about building a relationship.
• They show up, and we've got your back. If your regular Care Pro can't make it, we'll send a qualified backup—no scrambling on your end. Our 24/7 support line means help is always a call away.