How much does overnight care cost for the elderly?
Caring for a loved one can be particularly challenging during the night. Elderly relatives often require assistance with bathroom visits, medication, and other needs. For those who have dementia, the nighttime hours can be especially concerning, as they are prone to wandering during these early hours.
This is where overnight carers come into play.
With a night-time carer in the home, your loved one has immediate access to support, reassurance, and assistance whenever needed. While the cost of overnight care may seem overwhelming, understanding your options can significantly ease the burden. This article explores the types of night care available, their costs, and potential financial assistance options.
By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions for your family.
What is Overnight Care?
Overnight care encompasses caregiving services provided during nighttime hours, typically from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. This service includes assistance with toileting, medication management, repositioning, and safety monitoring while the client sleeps.
Overnight care offers peace of mind for individuals needing supervision throughout the night. For instance, an elderly person recovering from surgery may require help getting in and out of bed, while someone with dementia might experience confusion or anxiety during the night and need support.
Average Overnight Care Costs
Overnight carer costs can vary based on the type of care required, the caregiver’s qualifications, and geographic location. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:
| Type of Care | Description | Cost* | Best For |
| Sleeping Night Care | Carer sleeps but is available for assistance when needed | £200 per night | Patients who are mostly settled but may need occasional help |
| Waking Night Care | Carer is awake and alert throughout the night | £250 per night | People requiring frequent assistance, like dementia patients |
| Overnight Nursing Care | A qualified nurse provides specialized medical care | Around £2,780 per week | Those with medical needs requiring clinical skills |
| Live-in Night Care | A 24-hour live-in care package | £200 per day for less than one week, £1,270 for one week minimum | Long-term comprehensive care needs |
*Costs are based on Hometouch services at the time of publishing (May 2025).
Waking Night or Sleeping Night: Do Overnight Caregivers Sleep?
The answer depends on the type of overnight care you choose.
If you opt for waking night care, the carer remains awake to assist with nighttime duties like toileting or minimizing agitation. In contrast, sleeping night care allows the carer to rest, although they may need to wake occasionally to support the patient.
For example, they might assist someone to the bathroom or respond to a fall. Typically, the carer is provided with a bed or rest area for the night. Sleeping nights are generally more cost-effective than waking nights, offering reassurance and safety for those vulnerable during the night.
Why Overnight Care?
A reliable overnight carer can significantly enhance your daily functioning. Having someone to share the responsibilities of caregiving allows you to relax and recharge.
Let’s explore the benefits in more detail:
- Everyone gets a good night’s sleep. With a carer present, both you and your loved one can sleep soundly, free from late-night worries.
- Safety, every step of the night. Falls or medical issues can arise unexpectedly. A skilled carer ensures immediate help, preventing small issues from escalating.
- Gentle help with personal care. Overnight carers provide discreet support for personal needs, protecting health and preserving dignity.
- A calming presence during anxious hours. Nights can be unsettling, especially for those with dementia. A familiar carer can ease anxiety and create a calmer environment.
- Monitoring health through the night. Carers can quickly spot symptoms and take action if something changes, ensuring comfort throughout the night.
Looking for More Guidance?
Download our free care guide.
How Much Does Overnight Care Cost for the Elderly?
Home care overnight rates vary based on:
- The type of care. Different care types, like sleeping or waking night care, vary in price based on the level of assistance required.
- Location. The cost of overnight care fluctuates depending on your area, with larger cities typically being more expensive.
- Caregiver experience and qualifications. More experienced carers usually charge higher rates due to their expertise.
- Duration of care. Longer bookings often come with discounts, making monthly rates more economical.
- Additional services. Extra services can increase the overall cost of overnight care.
While costs can vary, the typical price for night care for the elderly in the UK ranges from £100-150 per night*. The hourly rate is generally around £30, making nightly rates more cost-effective.
*Based on Hometouch prices at the time of publishing (May 2025).
Related topic: Difference Between Dementia and Alzheimer’s
Sleeping Night Care
Sleeping night care means the carer is available for assistance but does not need to be awake at all times. This option is best for those who are mostly settled but may need occasional help.
Prices often depend on the care recipient’s needs. If your loved one requires frequent assistance, the carer may charge more than for someone needing help only a few times during the night.
Generally, overnight carers cost between £100-120* per night, equating to about £10 per hour.
*Based on Hometouch prices at the time of publishing (May 2025).
Waking Night Care
A waking night carer remains awake to provide close supervision. They may stay in the same room or nearby, depending on your preference.
Waking night care is typically more expensive, as the carer earns their full wage during the night shift. This type of care is often popular among carers due to favorable pay rates.
Waking night care is usually billed at the carer’s hourly rate. For instance, if the rate is £31 per hour and you need them for 8 hours, the cost would be at least £248 per night. Prices can vary based on the number of hours required.
Can I Get Help to Pay for Overnight Care?
Covering the costs of overnight care can be a significant financial challenge, but there are options available to help ease the burden.
Here are some ways to secure funding for overnight care:
Local Council Funding Eligibility
Your local council may provide funding for overnight care, especially if the individual has care needs related to illness, disability, or age. To check eligibility, schedule a care assessment with your local authority. This assessment will determine the level of care needed and whether financial support is available.
If eligible, the council may cover part or all of the care costs based on the individual’s financial situation. However, if your loved one has savings or income above a certain threshold, you may need to contribute.
NHS Help
The NHS may assist with funding overnight care if specialized medical care is required. For example, if your loved one qualifies for Continuing Healthcare (CHC), the NHS will cover their care costs.
An assessment by a healthcare professional is necessary to determine eligibility. If approved, the NHS will cover some or all of the care costs, including overnight support.
Self-Funding Considerations
If you’re ineligible for local council or NHS funding, you may need to self-fund overnight care, which can be costly. Careful budgeting and exploring various care options can help you find the most economical solution. Comparing prices and services from different care agencies is advisable.
Additionally, check if any insurance policies or life insurance plans offer support for long-term care, as some may provide financial assistance.
Cost-Saving Options
While overnight care can be expensive, there are ways to reduce costs without compromising quality:
- Shared Care. Coordinating care with others in similar situations can help split the cost of a carer’s time.
- Choosing a Less Intensive Care Option. If your loved one doesn’t require constant supervision, consider sleeping night care instead of waking night care for a more cost-effective solution.
What Other Types of Night Care for the Elderly at Home Are Available?
Here’s a closer look at additional types of night care available at home:
Night-Sitting Service
Night sitters for the elderly can be available on both an overnight and live-in basis. Live-in sitters typically cost £200/day, while an overnight visit may be as little as £80/night.*
“A night sitter is a great choice when your loved one needs reassurance or occasional help during the night, without full medical support,” says Grace Ball, Clinical Governance Manager at Hometouch.
*Based on Hometouch prices at the time of publishing (May 2025).
Live-in Care
For a 24/7 live-in carer, expect to pay upwards of £1,000* per week. The exact price depends on the carer’s experience, the level of support needed, and whether medical assistance is required.
“Live-in care works well when someone needs round-the-clock support — it helps maintain independence at home while giving families peace of mind,” explains Dimple Chandarana, Head of Clinical Governance and Registered Manager at Hometouch.
*Based on Hometouch prices at the time of publishing (May 2025).
Related topic: Cancer Care For The Elderly
Peace of Mind: Ensuring Your Loved One’s Safety and Comfort
Overnight care provides essential support, ensuring your loved one is safe and comfortable when you’re not around. While costs can vary, there are options and financial assistance available to make care more affordable.
At Hometouch, we help you find the right care tailored to your loved one’s needs and budget. We offer various care options, including dementia night care, live-in carers, or private overnight carers.
Want to discuss your options? Our Care Advisors are here to help—no pressure, just guidance.
Caring for a loved one can be particularly challenging during the night. Elderly relatives often require assistance with bathroom visits, medication, and other needs. For those who have dementia, the nighttime hours can be especially concerning, as they are prone to wandering during these early hours.
This is where overnight carers come into play.
With a night-time carer in the home, your loved one has immediate access to support, reassurance, and assistance whenever needed. While the cost of overnight care may seem overwhelming, understanding your options can significantly ease the burden. This article explores the types of night care available, their costs, and potential financial assistance options.
By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions for your family.
What is Overnight Care?
Overnight care encompasses caregiving services provided during nighttime hours, typically from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. This service includes assistance with toileting, medication management, repositioning, and safety monitoring while the client sleeps.
Overnight care offers peace of mind for individuals needing supervision throughout the night. For instance, an elderly person recovering from surgery may require help getting in and out of bed, while someone with dementia might experience confusion or anxiety during the night and need support.
Average Overnight Care Costs
Overnight carer costs can vary based on the type of care required, the caregiver’s qualifications, and geographic location. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:
| Type of Care | Description | Cost* | Best For |
| Sleeping Night Care | Carer sleeps but is available for assistance when needed | £200 per night | Patients who are mostly settled but may need occasional help |
| Waking Night Care | Carer is awake and alert throughout the night | £250 per night | People requiring frequent assistance, like dementia patients |
| Overnight Nursing Care | A qualified nurse provides specialized medical care | Around £2,780 per week | Those with medical needs requiring clinical skills |
| Live-in Night Care | A 24-hour live-in care package | £200 per day for less than one week, £1,270 for one week minimum | Long-term comprehensive care needs |
*Costs are based on Hometouch services at the time of publishing (May 2025).
Waking Night or Sleeping Night: Do Overnight Caregivers Sleep?
The answer depends on the type of overnight care you choose.
If you opt for waking night care, the carer remains awake to assist with nighttime duties like toileting or minimizing agitation. In contrast, sleeping night care allows the carer to rest, although they may need to wake occasionally to support the patient.
For example, they might assist someone to the bathroom or respond to a fall. Typically, the carer is provided with a bed or rest area for the night. Sleeping nights are generally more cost-effective than waking nights, offering reassurance and safety for those vulnerable during the night.
Why Overnight Care?
A reliable overnight carer can significantly enhance your daily functioning. Having someone to share the responsibilities of caregiving allows you to relax and recharge.
Let’s explore the benefits in more detail:
- Everyone gets a good night’s sleep. With a carer present, both you and your loved one can sleep soundly, free from late-night worries.
- Safety, every step of the night. Falls or medical issues can arise unexpectedly. A skilled carer ensures immediate help, preventing small issues from escalating.
- Gentle help with personal care. Overnight carers provide discreet support for personal needs, protecting health and preserving dignity.
- A calming presence during anxious hours. Nights can be unsettling, especially for those with dementia. A familiar carer can ease anxiety and create a calmer environment.
- Monitoring health through the night. Carers can quickly spot symptoms and take action if something changes, ensuring comfort throughout the night.
Looking for More Guidance?
Download our free care guide.
How Much Does Overnight Care Cost for the Elderly?
Home care overnight rates vary based on:
- The type of care. Different care types, like sleeping or waking night care, vary in price based on the level of assistance required.
- Location. The cost of overnight care fluctuates depending on your area, with larger cities typically being more expensive.
- Caregiver experience and qualifications. More experienced carers usually charge higher rates due to their expertise.
- Duration of care. Longer bookings often come with discounts, making monthly rates more economical.
- Additional services. Extra services can increase the overall cost of overnight care.
While costs can vary, the typical price for night care for the elderly in the UK ranges from £100-150 per night*. The hourly rate is generally around £30, making nightly rates more cost-effective.
*Based on Hometouch prices at the time of publishing (May 2025).
Related topic: Difference Between Dementia and Alzheimer’s
Sleeping Night Care
Sleeping night care means the carer is available for assistance but does not need to be awake at all times. This option is best for those who are mostly settled but may need occasional help.
Prices often depend on the care recipient’s needs. If your loved one requires frequent assistance, the carer may charge more than for someone needing help only a few times during the night.
Generally, overnight carers cost between £100-120* per night, equating to about £10 per hour.
*Based on Hometouch prices at the time of publishing (May 2025).
Waking Night Care
A waking night carer remains awake to provide close supervision. They may stay in the same room or nearby, depending on your preference.
Waking night care is typically more expensive, as the carer earns their full wage during the night shift. This type of care is often popular among carers due to favorable pay rates.
Waking night care is usually billed at the carer’s hourly rate. For instance, if the rate is £31 per hour and you need them for 8 hours, the cost would be at least £248 per night. Prices can vary based on the number of hours required.
Can I Get Help to Pay for Overnight Care?
Covering the costs of overnight care can be a significant financial challenge, but there are options available to help ease the burden.
Here are some ways to secure funding for overnight care:
Local Council Funding Eligibility
Your local council may provide funding for overnight care, especially if the individual has care needs related to illness, disability, or age. To check eligibility, schedule a care assessment with your local authority. This assessment will determine the level of care needed and whether financial support is available.
If eligible, the council may cover part or all of the care costs based on the individual’s financial situation. However, if your loved one has savings or income above a certain threshold, you may need to contribute.
NHS Help
The NHS may assist with funding overnight care if specialized medical care is required. For example, if your loved one qualifies for Continuing Healthcare (CHC), the NHS will cover their care costs.
An assessment by a healthcare professional is necessary to determine eligibility. If approved, the NHS will cover some or all of the care costs, including overnight support.
Self-Funding Considerations
If you’re ineligible for local council or NHS funding, you may need to self-fund overnight care, which can be costly. Careful budgeting and exploring various care options can help you find the most economical solution. Comparing prices and services from different care agencies is advisable.
Additionally, check if any insurance policies or life insurance plans offer support for long-term care, as some may provide financial assistance.
Cost-Saving Options
While overnight care can be expensive, there are ways to reduce costs without compromising quality:
- Shared Care. Coordinating care with others in similar situations can help split the cost of a carer’s time.
- Choosing a Less Intensive Care Option. If your loved one doesn’t require constant supervision, consider sleeping night care instead of waking night care for a more cost-effective solution.
What Other Types of Night Care for the Elderly at Home Are Available?
Here’s a closer look at additional types of night care available at home:
Night-Sitting Service
Night sitters for the elderly can be available on both an overnight and live-in basis. Live-in sitters typically cost £200/day, while an overnight visit may be as little as £80/night.*
“A night sitter is a great choice when your loved one needs reassurance or occasional help during the night, without full medical support,” says Grace Ball, Clinical Governance Manager at Hometouch.
*Based on Hometouch prices at the time of publishing (May 2025).
Live-in Care
For a 24/7 live-in carer, expect to pay upwards of £1,000* per week. The exact price depends on the carer’s experience, the level of support needed, and whether medical assistance is required.
“Live-in care works well when someone needs round-the-clock support — it helps maintain independence at home while giving families peace of mind,” explains Dimple Chandarana, Head of Clinical Governance and Registered Manager at Hometouch.
*Based on Hometouch prices at the time of publishing (May 2025).
Related topic: Cancer Care For The Elderly
Peace of Mind: Ensuring Your Loved One’s Safety and Comfort
Overnight care provides essential support, ensuring your loved one is safe and comfortable when you’re not around. While costs can vary, there are options and financial assistance available to make care more affordable.
At Hometouch, we help you find the right care tailored to your loved one’s needs and budget. We offer various care options, including dementia night care, live-in carers, or private overnight carers.
Want to discuss your options? Our Care Advisors are here to help—no pressure, just guidance.
