More and more Kiwis are choosing in-home elder care — and it’s not hard to see why. Staying at home offers comfort, independence, and a sense of control, especially as we age. But when it comes time to bring in extra help, it’s normal to feel unsure where to start.
Whether you're supporting your mum, dad, your partner or yourself, this guide walks you through the key steps — so you can feel confident about the choices you're making.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
Now, let’s dig into each step.
Every family is different. Some people need help with showering or medication, others just want someone to pop in for a chat or a walk. Knowing what’s needed — now and in the future — makes the search easier.
Ask yourself:
Taking a moment to jot these down — even roughly — helps guide conversations with care providers later on.
There’s no one “right” way to arrange in-home care. What matters is finding what works best for your whānau. Here are the three most common options:
Many families begin by providing care themselves. This can be rewarding and cost-effective, but over time, it can become exhausting or unsustainable — especially if you’re juggling work or children. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or look at professional options early.
Some people choose care through a registered agency. This can offer consistency, background-checked staff, and coordination. However, it can also be more expensive and less flexible in terms of who you work with or when.
Hiring someone directly gives you more control over who comes into your home and how care is delivered. Platforms like Mycare help you connect directly with local, pre-approved caregivers — you choose who to work with and on what terms, without the overheads of a traditional agency.
Bringing someone new into your home is a big deal — especially when they’re supporting someone you love. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Some families prefer caregivers with formal training, like:
But don’t overlook lived experience — someone who’s looked after a parent or whānau member may bring just as much care and insight.
Look for someone who’s:
A trial visit can help see if the connection feels right. Platforms like Mycare make this easy by allowing you to message, interview, and even test out working together before making a longer commitment.
The cost of care depends on how often it’s needed and what’s involved. Some people pay privately, while others are eligible for funding.
If your loved one qualifies through NASC, they may be able to receive publicly funded in-home support.
You can also explore:
Not sure what you’re entitled to? Your GP, social worker, or local NASC team can help point you in the right direction. [Can we link to a list of Local NASC teams? I couldn’t find one]
Mycare is a New Zealand-based platform that makes it easier to find trusted local caregivers. It’s simple, flexible, and lets you stay in control of who provides care and how it’s delivered.
With Mycare, you can:
It’s all about helping you build a care plan that fits around your life — not the other way around.
If you’re supporting an ageing parent or loved one, don’t forget: your wellbeing matters too.
Caring can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s also emotionally and physically draining — especially if you’re juggling work, kids, or other responsibilities.
Some things that help:
And if you're the one receiving care — remember it’s okay to ask for what you need, to speak up if something doesn’t feel right, and to be part of the decision-making. It’s your life, after all.
Choosing in-home elder care is a big decision — but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a bit of guidance, the right tools, and support along the way, you can find care that helps your loved one stay safe, happy, and independent in the place they call home.
Ready to start your search? We’re here to help you find the right support — one step at a time.