Residential Care Homes and Residential Nursing Homes: Facts About Elderly Care Options
As people age, they may require more or less care to continue enjoying their lives. Residential care homes and nursing homes offer tailored support to those who cannot manage daily activities independently.
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While similar in concept, there are some fundamental differences between these two types of care homes for older people. The following guide will outline the difference and help families make an informed decision about long-term care options.
What are Residential Care Homes?
Residential care homes, commercially known as care homes, offer comfort and a caring atmosphere to older people who require central assistance in personal care but do not need specialised medical attentiveness around the clock.
Such care usually includes bathing, dressing, grooming, and food preparation. These homes also provide opportunities for social interaction, recreational activities, and company, which are essential for emotional well-being.
The main emphasis within residential care homes is to provide a homely environment where residents can live quite independently, with staff available to assist them when needed.
Residential care homes may be suitable for older adults who are still mobile and able to undertake day-to-day activities but who require supervision for safety reasons or who need help with some aspects of their care.
What Are Residential Nursing Homes?
Residential nursing homes are examples of nursing homes that provide more comprehensive facilities, including 24-hour medical assistance from qualified nursing staff.
They cater to people with graver needs, such as chronic illnesses, mobility problems, cognitive impairment, and dementia.
Nursing home residents receive personal care in addition to medical attention, such as medication management, wound care, and specialised therapies, including physiotherapy or occupational therapy.
Therefore, nursing homes would be suitable for patients who are bedridden or have conditions requiring continuous monitoring and care by healthcare experts.
Unlike residential care homes, nursing homes are staffed and prepared to deal with emergencies and other complicated medical situations.
This makes them a source of comfort for families whose loved ones’ health and safety are eminent concerns.
Residential Care Homes vs Nursing Homes: Key Differences
Level of Care: The most apparent difference in level of care between a residential care home and a nursing home is that one offers actual medical care in addition to personal care, while the other does not.
Expertise of Staff: Nursing homes have registered nurses and other health professionals qualified to treat medical problems. Residential care homes have care assistants who can help the residents with daily activities.
Suitability: Residential homes would be ideal for those who are primarily independent but require some assistance, while nursing homes suit patients with higher levels of illness who require close monitoring by medical professionals around the clock.
While both have merits, nursing homes incur additional costs to accommodate the extra medical care. The cost will vary depending on location, services offered, and the individual’s required level of care.
Conclusion
Residential care homes and nursing homes both play important roles in caring for older people during their ageing process.
Knowing the differences between the two will better prepare families for selection to ensure their loved one receives the proper care and attention in a comfortable and secure environment.
Whether it’s assistance with daily tasks or round-the-clock medical care, choosing a suitable facility can significantly enhance the quality of life for elderly individuals.
