The live-in care company Elder, which already works with more than 3,500 live-in carers nationwide, is hiring in US.

The company said it has seen a huge increase in demand as families look for an alternative to residential care following the pandemic.

The company – which matches people with professional, full-time carers who move into the home – said it has seen a huge increase in enquiries about its service in recent months.

A spokesman said: “In US, Elder has seen a 105% increase of families opting for live-in care compared to the same period last year, as COVID-19 has accelerated the trend of people wanting to remain in their own homes to receive care.

“Excess deaths in care homes have been a real driver for many families now seeking an alternative. A recent report by the company has found that 41% of people are less likely to consider a care home, as safety is still a key concern.”

Pete Dowds, CEO of Elder, said: “For those who need care, it’s important that they are offered the chance to choose where they are most comfortable. For many, this may still be the care home, but this could also be due to a lack of awareness around other care options.”