RESIDENTIAL CARE HOMES
Care homes were traditionally referred to as residential homes and nursing homes. Today, the most common term is care home. This umbrella term refers to all homes that provide both personal and nursing care.
Where to start?
There are a range of different care homes and nursing homes available to choose from. A residential care home tends to have both nursing and residential residents. For instance, each home will have a specific number of beds which are registered for nursing care, whilst their other beds will be defined as residential care. The different beds are normally within the same facility but in separate sections of the building.
In addition to this, some care homes and nursing homes will also be registered as providing EMI Care (Elderly Mentally Infirm), this also includes care homes for people with dementia.
What is the difference between nursing and residential care?
Residential care is a good option for your loved one if they are struggling with daily tasks at home. For instance, preparing food, eating in general, toileting, and everyday personal care. In addition to personal care, care homes can offer a friendly atmosphere for your loved one if they are feeling lonely and isolated.
WHAT DOES RESIDENTAL CARE INVOLVE?
Assistance with personal hygiene, such as support with bathing, washing, skin and nail care.
Help dressing and undressing.
All your meals planned and prepped, plus assistance with eating if required.
Help with going to the toilet, bed changing and support if using incontinence pads.
Aid and assistance with getting in and out of bed.
Support with medication application. Carers should have a certificate in the safe handling of medicines and be able to give basic medication. You will be under the care of a GP and district nursing service in exactly the same way as you would be living in your own home. So for example, a district nurse would visit to change dressings and provide insulin injections for diabetic patients. However, if you require support from a qualified nurse every 24 hours, you would need a placement in a nursing home.
Games, exercises, trips out and entertainment to provide stimulation and encourage movement and socialisation.
If you think a higher level of care is required than set out above, nursing care home services may be more suitable. We also provide information on dementia nursing care homes for more specific care.
Still unsure? You can speak to an adviser who can provide specialist care home advice based on an assessment of your relative’s specific needs.
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