Residential Care vs. Specialist Nursing Care: What's the Difference?

Moving into a care home is a decision that individuals and their families may need to make when an adult requires assistance with their daily living. There are various reasons why someone might choose to move into a care home, and it often depends on the individual’s health, mobility, and support needs.

This blog post will delve into two main types of care homes, shedding light on the options available for those seeking suitable living arrangements and assistance.

Residential Care Homes vs. Specialist Nursing Care Homes

In brief:
Residential care homes offer general care services for adults with diverse needs, catering to a broad spectrum of requirements.
On the other hand, specialist nursing care homes focus on delivering more targeted and specialised care for adults with specific needs, such as dementia, mental health conditions, or physical disabilities.

Here is a more detailed look at the differences between residential care and specialist care:

Residential care: Residential care homes are designed to offer general care for adults with a broader aspect of needs. This includes assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, and eating. Beyond the fundamental care aspects, residential care homes also prioritise social activities and support, aiming to help residents maintain connections with their community.
Specialist care: In contrast, specialist nursing care homes provide more tailored and focused care for adults with particular health and medical requirements. This could be care for conditions such as dementia, mental health issues, or physical disabilities.

The staff in nursing care homes undergo training to adeptly address the unique needs of each resident, ensuring a comprehensive and specialised approach to their care.

How to choose the right care home?

Visit in person and meet staff

Schedule visits to potential care homes to get a firsthand experience. Interacting with the staff will help to understand their attitude, professionalism, and approach to caregiving.

Ask about philosophy and care approach

Learn about the care home’s philosophy and the approach they take towards providing care. This will help you understand if their values align with the kind of support you or your loved one needs.

Seek references from residents or families

Reach out to current residents or their families to gather insights into their experiences with the care home. This feedback can provide valuable perspectives on the quality of care and overall satisfaction.

Make sure the care home is registered

Ensure that the care home is registered and meets the necessary regulatory standards. This ensures that the facility adheres to established guidelines, providing a level of assurance regarding the quality of care and safety.

Which type of care is right for you?

Finding the right type of care for you or your loved one is a personal journey, shaped by individual needs and preferences. If general care is what you’re looking for, a welcoming residential care home might be the perfect fit. On the other hand, if you need more specialised support, exploring options in a specialist nursing care home could be a better match.

However, it is always important to talk to your doctor or a care advisor to get help deciding which type of care is right for you or your relative. These professionals can offer valuable insights, conduct thorough assessments, and offer informed recommendations tailored to your unique situation.

At Manor House Nursing Home, we understand the importance of making informed decisions and providing personalised care that caters to individual requirements. Our commitment to delivering person-centred services ensures that each resident receives the utmost attention, respect, and support, whether they need residential care or specialised assistance.

Contact Manor House Nursing Home today to learn more about our person-centred care options and how we prioritise the well-being, happiness, and dignity of every individual in our care.

Residential Care vs. Specialist Nursing Care: What’s the Difference?