If you or a loved one have reached the stage where independent living is becoming increasingly difficult, it may be time to consider a care home and nursing care. Care homes offer an opportunity for people to retain as much independence as possible as well as be presented with chances to get involved with some truly exciting activities. It allows people to enter the next stage of their lives in an environment that is supportive and safe.
When you realise that a care home, with or without nursing care, is the right choice, it’s worth taking the time to look at the various options that exist. We’re going to take a look at the most common types of care homes that there are in the UK so that you’ll be clearer on what’s available and what’s right for you.
What is a care home?
A care home offers an environment for people to live in. As well as offering accommodation, a care home will also cater for individual care needs. Care homes, such as Oakwood House, will always seek to understand your specific needs so that they can ensure that they can offer what’s right for you.
Care homes are staffed by trained carers. These are available 24/7 to cater for the needs of the residents. Each resident will have their own personal care plan and staff will ensure that this is adhered to. Some care homes will also offer nursing care where there are qualified nurses available throughout the day and night.
A look at the different types of care home
There are different types of care to consider when looking for the right home. It’s worth remembering that some homes, such as ours in Norwich, offer more than one type and can meet a variety of needs. Here’s a look at the options that exist:
Residential care homes
Residential care homes are generally for those who are in their senior years. They offer long-term accommodation along with assistance with day-to-day tasks and personal care. A residential care home can be the best option when receiving care in your own home is no longer working out.
Residents are provided with their own private bedrooms and have access to communal areas. Care homes, such as Oakwood House, also offer a great range of activities and events to ensure that residents live life to the fullest.
While long-term care is available, residential care homes also offer:
- Emergency care
- Respite care
- Palliative care
- End-of-life care
Some of the services typically found in a residential care home include:
- Assistance with self-care. This could involve bathing dressing and taking medication
- Home-cooked meals that are nutritious and tasty
- Housekeeping services
- Facilities such as hair salons and gardens
- Organised outings
Nursing care homes
If you compare a nursing home and residential care home, you’ll notice that there are plenty of similarities. The support facilities and services offered may be almost identical, but there is a higher level of care. This is down to the fact that, in addition to trained carers, there are also qualified nurses on hand to offer assistance, 24/7.
If you’re wondering if a nursing home is right for you, these are there to assist people whose medical needs are more complex and beyond the expertise of a residential care home. Examples of when nursing care may be required include:
- Conditions and illnesses that need multiple or advanced treatments
- Conditions that are progressive or terminal
- Conditions that are ongoing and where there is a need for regular clinical input
What other types of care are available?
When nursing care or a residential care home isn’t the right option, various other options exist. These include:
Extra housing care
This type of care is for people who have a greater degree of independence than those who require nursing care or residential care. Generally, extra housing care involves living in a self-contained flat with meals provided. Personal care is also offered when needed.
Retirement villages
Here, residents will usually buy an apartment on-site, although there may be options to rent. This is the resident’s own home and they can have pets and decorate as they please. The apartments are set up in such a way that they assist independent living with the likes of fall sensors being installed. There is also the option to pay for support and care services.
Dementia care
Dementia is a condition that has devastating effects. When it comes to a care home for those with dementia, there are specially qualified staff to cater for their needs and there is extra focus on safety measures. This type of care is highly specialised and, when the time for a care home is right, the provision of extra care is a must for anyone who has been diagnosed.
What we offer at Oakwood House, Norfolk
At our award-winning care home in Norfolk, we offer both residential and nursing care. We also have people join us for respite care on a short-term basis. It’s great to see our long-term and short-term residents come together and form meaningful relationships during their time with us.
If you’ve reached that stage in life when a care home is the right option for you, you need to ensure that you’re accessing the best care possible. Why not get in touch with us at Oakwood House and explore all that we can offer?
