What is Waking Night Care at home?

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Waking Night Care at Home

Support and assistance throughout the night

What is Waking Night Care?

Waking night care is an overnight care service where a carer remains fully awake and on-hand to provide continuous support. Unlike sleeping night care, where a carer rests nearby and is only woken if needed – a waking night carer stays vigilant all night, ready to assist as often as required. This type of care is ideal for people who wake frequently, need regular medication or assistance, or feel anxious, confused, or disorientated at night. It’s also suitable for those at higher risk of falls or wandering, and for individuals with more complex medical conditions or personal care needs during the night.

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What Does a Waking Night Carer Do?

A waking night carer provides reassurance and hands-on support throughout the night. They may help with personal care routines such as toileting or changing incontinence pads, assist with medication at scheduled times, or provide mobility support for clients who need repositioning to remain comfortable. For individuals living with dementia or other cognitive conditions, the carer can offer calm, compassionate reassurance during moments of confusion or distress.

They also play an important role in monitoring the safety of the person receiving care, watching for signs of discomfort or changes in behaviour. Their presence alone can bring great peace of mind, particularly for family members who may struggle to stay up overnight or live elsewhere.

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Who Is Waking Night Care Suitable For?

Waking night care can be arranged for people of all ages and with a wide range of needs. It is commonly used for older adults who are unsettled or vulnerable at night, as well as those living with dementia, Parkinson’s disease or other long-term conditions that can disrupt sleep or increase the need for overnight assistance.

It can also be incredibly helpful during recovery from an illness, injury or surgery, when sleep may be disrupted, and mobility is limited. For individuals receiving end-of-life or palliative care, waking night care offers essential comfort and professional support during the hours when it’s most needed. In some cases, it’s simply a way to give family carers time to rest and recharge, knowing their loved one is in capable hands.

How Does Waking Night Care Work?

Waking night care typically runs from around 10pm to 7am, although exact hours can be tailored to suit individual routines. Your carer will arrive in the evening, stay throughout the night, and remain awake and attentive for the entire shift. They will check in regularly, respond to calls for assistance, and provide support as needed.

This service can be arranged as a standalone solution for clients who are independent during the day but need help at night, or as part of a wider package of day and live-in care. Every care plan is bespoke, meaning we’ll work with you to build a solution that fits seamlessly around your daily life and adapts as needs change.

Waking Night Care vs Sleeping Night Care

The main difference between waking and sleeping night care lies in the level of support provided. A waking night carer is continuously available and does not sleep, making them suitable for clients who require frequent or unpredictable assistance. In contrast, a sleeping night carer is on hand but will only wake if their help is needed, making that service more appropriate for those with low overnight needs.

If you're unsure which is right for your circumstances, we can talk you through both options and help you decide what’s best.

Waking Night Care vs Sleeping Night Care

Why Choose Nurseplus for Waking Night Care?

With over 15 years of experience, Nurseplus Care at home is a trusted provider of personalised, regulated care. Our waking night carers are carefully selected, fully trained and committed to supporting clients with kindness, professionalism and dignity.

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all care. Every arrangement is tailored to the individual, ensuring comfort, safety and familiarity at all times. You’ll also have the reassurance of a dedicated local team and a 24/7 support line, so someone is always available to help should you need it.

Whether you’re seeking short-term cover during recovery or longer-term overnight care as part of an ongoing plan, we’re here to offer flexible solutions that work for you.

Why Choose Nurseplus for Waking Night Care?

How Do I Arrange Waking Night Care?

Our expert homecare team will help guide you through the process of arranging your waking night care package

1. Contact our homecare experts

Get in touch with our team of local homecare experts using our online enquiry form or call us on 08000 622 622 to discuss the range of available homecare options. Our team is available 24/7 and aim to respond to all enquiries immediately.

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2. Free assessment within 24 hours

Our experienced homecare team will discuss your requirements, learn more about you or your loved one, and carry out a free assessment within 24 hours to understand the type of care you require.

3. Your bespoke homecare package

Our team will create a bespoke care package based on your needs and preferences. All of our homecare staff are carefully matched based on the individual requirements of you or your loved one.

1. Contact our homecare experts

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2. Free assessment within 24 hours

Our experienced homecare team will discuss your requirements, learn more about you or your loved one, and carry out a free assessment within 24 hours to understand the type of care you require.

3. Your bespoke homecare package

Our team will create a bespoke care package based on your needs and preferences. All of our homecare staff are carefully matched based on the individual requirements of you or your loved one.

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What makes our care staff exceptional?

We believe that quality home care only begins with quality home care staff. That is why we have a number of ways in which we ensure only the most qualified and dedicated staff members are ready to support you or a loved one.

Whether you opt for a sleeping nights service or waking nights, each and every one of our carers are matched with the individual needs, requirements, hobbies and interests of those receiving care.

Industry-leading, mandatory classroom training for all carers
Dedicated internal audit function and Quality Assurance team ensuring only the highest quality care
Rigorous recruitment and screening process
Enhanced DBS, Right to Work and background checks carried out internally
Local, expert support from our branch teams

Quality homecare you can trust

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FAQs

For more information about overnight care take a look at some of the frequently asked questions below.

What is the difference between waking night care and sleeping night care?

Who typically needs waking night care?

What does a waking night carer do during their shift?

Can waking night care be arranged on a short-term basis?

How do I know if waking night care is the right option for my loved one?

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