What is a Residential Care Home

Residential care homes are a vital option for those who require round-the-clock personal care but do not need the intensive medical attention provided by nursing homes. Whether you’re planning for yourself or a loved one, understanding residential care homes is an essential step toward ensuring a safe, comfortable, and fulfilling living experience for your aging loved one.

The Concept of ‘Residential’

The term ‘residential’ indicates seniors can treat these settings as their homes. They live there and have access to various on-site services. The primary goal of a residential care home is to ensure that people who cannot live independently, yet do not require nursing care, are well looked after and can continue to lead meaningful lives. 

• Services include:

  • Personal care (bathing, washing, skin and nail care, hygiene)
  • Assistance with dressing and undressing
  • Meals and snacks throughout the day, with eating aid if required
  • Help with toileting and incontinence support
  • Assistance with getting in and out of bed
  • Medication administration
  • Activities to encourage physical and mental exercise
  • Social activities and entertainment, both within and outside the home

How Does Residential Care Work?

Residents in residential care homes can receive various types of care, including long-term, short-term, respite, emergency, and even palliative care. Although these homes predominantly cater to older adults, they also support individuals over 18.

Who Benefits from Residential Care?

Residential care homes are ideal for people who struggle with daily life due to old age, physical disabilities, learning disabilities, mental health issues, addiction, or other care needs. These homes may cater to a broad range of care needs or specialize in conditions such as physical disabilities or dementia, with support provided by care assistants.

For instance, individuals with dementia can live in a residential setting where they receive help with daily activities but do not yet need nursing care. Residential care homes serve people with ‘low’ care needs, meaning they require assistance throughout the day and night with various tasks, such as getting dressed or washing.

Living in a residential care home eliminates the need for chores, as staff keep the home clean and wash residents’ clothes. Some homes even feature amenities like hair salons, cafés, bars, and landscaped gardens. These features allow residents to enjoy fresh air, continue hobbies, and socialize.

Accommodation and Personalization

Residential care homes vary in size, accommodating as few as one person to more than 200. Each resident has their own bedroom, which they can personalize to feel more at home. Some settings even allow residents to bring their furniture and pets. Residents are provided with meals and snacks. They also benefit from regular social events and entertainment, combating the loneliness they might have felt living alone.

Types of Care Provided

Unlike nursing homes, residential care homes do not offer specialist or complex medical care from qualified nurses. They do not treat medical conditions, however, they provide personal care services and support, such as administering medication. Residential homes also maintain relationships with local health professionals like GPs, physiotherapists, and dentists, who can visit residents as needed. Care staff can also arrange and accompany residents to outside appointments.

Residential care homes provide a home-like setting with various amenities and services to ensure residents lead comfortable and fulfilling lives. Making an informed choice about residential care can significantly enhance the quality of life for those who need it most.

1+1 Cares is a referral agency that works for clients and caregivers. We match caregivers with clients and inform them of your requirements. We work for you so you and your loved one can have a safe, enjoyable caregiving experience.