The role of residential & nursing homes

Residential homes provide accommodation and personal care for those who may need support with daily activities such as bathing and dressing. Nursing homes offer the same level of personal care but also have qualified nurses on-site 24/7 to provide medical care for complex health needs.

Older adults who have difficulty managing at home due to physical or cognitive impairments often benefit from residential or nursing home care. Those with complex medical needs benefit more from nursing homes due to the presence of trained nursing staff.

Consider the level of care needed, location, cost, services offered, and the home's reputation. Visiting facilities, reading reviews, and speaking with staff and residents can help determine the best fit.

Services in residential homes usually include personal care, meal provision, laundry service, social activities, and assistance with medication. Some may offer additional specialized services.

Yes, both residential and nursing homes in the UK are regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in England, Care Inspectorate Wales, Care Inspectorate in Scotland, and the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) in Northern Ireland.

Care can be funded through a combination of personal finances, local authority funding, and, if eligible, NHS continuing healthcare funding. Means-tests are used to determine eligibility for financial support from local authorities.

Yes, residents have the right to continue seeing their own GP if practical. However, many homes have visiting GPs who regularly attend to residents’ medical needs.

Staff in residential homes provide personal care, support with daily activities, oversight of medication, and facilitate social and recreational activities to enhance residents' wellbeing.

Yes, many homes offer double rooms or can accommodate couples in adjacent rooms if preferred, allowing them to live together or near each other.

Yes, most homes encourage visits from family and friends as it contributes positively to residents' wellbeing. Visiting hours and policies can vary between homes, especially in response to health guidelines.

Activities vary but often include arts and crafts, exercise classes, music therapy, games, social events, and outings, all designed to enhance residents' quality of life.

Meals are generally prepared on-site by catering staff. Homes aim to provide balanced, nutritious meals and can often cater to special dietary requirements.

Start by discussing concerns with the home’s management. If the issue is not resolved, you can escalate it to the local authority or the appropriate regulatory body, such as the CQC in England.

Yes, residents are encouraged to bring personal belongings to make their space feel more like home, as long as it’s within the available space and policies of the home.

Arrange for an assessment of needs by the local authority to determine care requirements. Visit potential homes, understand the costs, and arrange for financial support if eligible before making a decision.