What is Residential Care?
A Guide to Understanding Your Options
Residential care is any long-term care given at a care home. It is for those who require assistance with their daily needs, such as eating, medical needs, personal hygiene, or even some companionship.
As we get older we may find it harder to do tasks and struggle to live independently. Moving into a care home can be daunting but many residents quickly become happier, physically healthier, and improve their mental health with care support.
- Residential care homes are generally referred to as ‘care homes’ or 'nursing homes' and provide a home for elderly people with 24-hour care.
- Some care homes are set up to support specific needs, such as dementia or terminal illnesses.
- Residential care involves providing personal care to residents, including bathing, dressing, and medication.
Who is a residential home for?
Simply, a residential home is suitable for anyone who would benefit from support with daily tasks. It may be that you are older and can't care for yourself independently, or you may need extra support due to dementia, a physical disability, or other health conditions.
When is the right time to move into residential care?
There's no right time to move into residential care. If you or a loved one is at risk of causing injury to themselves because they can't safely live independently, then it would be a good idea to look at a care home or ways to receive support.
Types of Care Homes
Most care homes provide support for both residents with and without medical conditions, provide respite care, and also palliative care. Depending on your level of needed assistance, the different types of care can be covered in one home. However, Residential care mostly refers to care that does not include specialist medical care.
Long term residential care will provide a safe environment that includes activities, personal care plans, meals and drinks, and many more fulfilling ways to spend the day.
- Some care homes offer both residential and nursing care places.
- Care homes may be run by private companies, voluntary or charity organisations, or local councils.
What is the difference between residential homes and Nursing Homes
Residential care and nursing care can be offered under one roof. At Rowan Park, we offer luxury residential care, respite care, and palliative care. Some care homes will only offer one type of care.
- Nursing homes provide personal care and 24-hour nursing care and support.
- These homes are staffed by qualified nurses and provide a high level of care.
- Some nursing homes offer additional services, such as therapy and rehabilitation.
- Nursing homes can be a good option for those who need ongoing medical care and support.
Care Home Options
To find out more about living at a residential care home we always recommend touring a home in person to find out more about a home and see if you would be a good fit. Another great way to find out if you like life in a residential setting is to try out a home for a few weeks (Respite care.) This temporary trial allows you to look at a home without a long-term commitment.
- Residential care homes provide a safe and supportive environment for those who need it.
How much is residential care?
The cost of a care home depends on your level of care and which care home you are in. For a care needs assessment and financial assessment please get in touch.
Other options to pay for residential care home fees include support from local authorities such as NHS continuing healthcare.
Benefits of Care Homes
- Residential care offers security and interaction with other people. At Rowan Park, our activities include bowls, arts and crafts, animal therapy, and more. At Rowan Park, green-fingered residents can enjoy our beautiful private garden.
- Residential care facilities provide round-the-clock support which would be impossible for elderly individuals living alone. A qualified nurse can help with taking medication or other complex medical condition needs that would be harder to do alone.
- The benefits of residential care include a safe and secure environment as part of a care plan.
- Care homes can cater to people with low care needs, requiring assistance with daily tasks such as getting dressed or washing.
Choosing the Right Care Option
A care home may be the best option if you or someone you know needs ongoing care. Inspect care homes with a loved one to assess whether it is a good care home for their needs.
- Care homes can reduce the stress of caring for someone, allowing them to focus on their social life and wellbeing. Care can be for an extended time or a limited period. Talk to a care team to find out which option is best for you.
- Make sure it's easy for a family member to visit - a care or nursing home a long distance away from someone's own home or family isn't ideal for a resident.
- Care homes provide a safe and comfortable environment for residents especially those with a medical condition that may need more help.
- Check the 'Care Quality Commission' website to find quality scores for homes. This can be a great tool to see the strengths and weaknesses of a home.
Residential Care at Rowan Park
Residential Care is available at Rowan Park for those looking for luxury care in every aspect. Whether you're looking for yourself or a loved one, we know you'll be amazed by our gorgeous home.
Life at Rowan Park offers delicious and nutritious meals, quality care, fun and engaging activities, and a real community.
Conclusion
If you're struggling with day-to-day tasks you may benefit from care services. Costs depend on the care home and the amount of staff needed to provide nursing care per person.
A person living on their own and beginning to find it harder to do day-to-day tasks, especially as they get older, may want to look at a residential care home.
