Nursing and residential care homes are the more common types of care people are aware of. At nursing homes, qualified nurses are on-site to support more specific medical care needs, whereas residential care homes support people without these specific medical needs. Carers in residential care homes assist in daily activities such as getting dressed, washing, medication and helping you go to the toilet and at mealtimes.
The most significant factor with these types of care is that you or your loved one would move into the facility with them providing meals, activities, medication etc. This can be a good option for lonely people, as these homes often foster a real sense of community between residents and staff. Usually, social activities, themed evenings and collective celebrations are held in communal areas, and in-house hairdressers and therapists visit residents.
The apparent disadvantage of nursing and residential care homes is that people are moved into an unfamiliar setting, particularly difficult for those with dementia. Although you can bring in some of your possessions to make your room feel more homely, this is often restricted as there is only so much space in a resident room.
Moving into a new setting can also be disruptive for some people as they lose independence and adjust to the more disciplined routine set in the care home. However, this can also be hugely beneficial to some residents, and it might just take a while for some people to come to terms with it.
Staying at home: What care options are available?
While nursing and residential care homes work for some people, others don’t always enjoy the communal aspect and feel more comfortable staying in their own homes – if that’s suitable for your care requirements. Many options allow you to live independently in your own space whilst also getting critical care.
Assisted living facilities
Some people choose to downsize to an assisted living house or flat when they cannot manage their current home. This allows people to retain their independence while also experiencing that sense of community and having access to support staff and general assistance with everyday tasks and social activities.
Domiciliary care
This is a term often used by social workers and medical professionals to describe a range of services that can be put into place to support an individual in the comfort of their own home. There are two types of domiciliary care; visiting care and live-in care. Visiting care enables you to stay in your own home but with the additional support from carers regularly coming throughout the day to assist with your care needs, medication and general domestic tasks. Visiting care is a homecare option that enables you to stay in your own home but with the additional support from carers regularly coming throughout the day to assist with your care needs, medication and general domestic tasks.
You could also consider living in care if you require full-time personal care. This type of care is best suited to those with complex care needs and requires constant support throughout the day. This would involve home carers living in your home to assist you in whatever way you require. This could be for dementia care, respite and recovery, chronic conditions, end of life care or are also available to disabled adults of any age.
There are also dedicated night care options where additional night carers can come in at night for those who primarily need support overnight rather than in the daytime.
Ellen Diamond did her degree in psychology at the University of Hertfordshire. She is interested in mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
