Are you just beginning your research into care home facilities for an elderly relative, parent, partner, or yourself?
In an already emotionally stressful time, the last thing you need is to be overwhelmed by care terms. By ensuring you fully understand the difference between the care services available, it should make the decision easier for all involved.
Often, the term ‘care home’ is used fluidly to describe all elderly home facilities, however this is not the case. Our simple guide aims to give clarity on exactly what a residential care home provides and answers key questions like ‘what is a nursing home?’. We will clearly outline the differences and services available to allow you to make an informed decision for your loved one.
Key Differences Between Nursing Care Homes and Residential Care Homes
Understanding the key differences between residential and nursing care is key to choosing the right care facility for your loved one.
Although both facilities offer 24/7 support to residents, the care home you choose will depend on the level of care required. The main difference is that nursing care homes can provide a higher level of care, for those who have more severe illnesses, disabilities or require closely monitored care.
Both nursing care and residential care homes provide basic support with day-to-day tasks such as meals, housekeeping and washing or dressing and are available on either a long- or short-term basis.
Services provided by nursing homes are provided by registered nurses, supported by care assistants, meaning that more expert levels of care can be provided to residents, whereas within a residential care home there is no access to registered nurses.
What Are The Services Provided by Nursing Homes?
Whether a person requires nursing care is dependent on each individual situation, but factors can include things such as mobility, complex medical conditions which require specialist knowledge, and conditions that need monitoring.
Nursing care homes on a whole. are very similar to that of a residential home, with comfortable, homely bedrooms, often with ensuites and shared communal facilities.
Each individual within the nursing care home will have a tailored care plan, which will assess the specific needs, allowing the nurses and care assistants to provide and administer the treatment required.
Choosing the Right Care Home
Whether you opt for nursing care or residential care homes is entirely dependent on individual circumstances, and there is no clear line as to which is better.
If the person you are considering the care home for is reliant on close care for medical reasons, then a nursing care home is more likely to be the best-suited option. If the purpose of moving into care is because of overall support with daily tasks, or for the company of others, then residential care may be a great option.
There are, of course, other care home types and services available, including specialist dementia care and convalescent or respite care.
It’s important to consider the individual requirements to decide on the most appropriate form of care. If you’re unsure, Avery’s helpful support team would be happy to discuss and advise on the options available, contact today for more advice and information.
