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December 2023

What is Residential Care?

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In this guide, we will explore the concept of a residential care setting, what you can expect from a residential care home, and useful tips on how to find a suitable care home.

When the time comes to consider residential care for yourself or a loved one, it can initially feel overwhelming. Understanding the different types of care, what residential care is and what a residential care home entails is the first step toward making an informed decision.

What is Residential Care?

Residential care, often provided in residential care homes, retirement villages or assisted living communities, refers to a type of long-term care designed for individuals who require assistance with daily activities and personal care. Residential care options offer a supportive and safe living environment where residents can maintain a good quality of life while receiving the necessary care and support.

Residential homes provide a higher level of independence. They offer assistance with activities of daily living and may include amenities like private apartments, dining options, and recreational activities.

Every care setting in the UK is regulated by the Care Quality Commission, the regulator that will inspect care homes to ensure safety and quality.

What is residential care?

What is a Residential Care Home?

A residential care home is a care home designed to provide a safe and supportive living environment for older people who require assistance with daily activities and personal care and can no longer live independently in their own home. Residential care homes can be managed by a local authority or local council, a private provider or a larger care home group.

Key Features of a Residential Setting:

  1. Personalised Care: Residential care homes offer personalised care plans tailored to the unique needs and preferences of each resident. Care services can include assistance with activities of daily living - provide personal care, and help with bathing, dressing, grooming, and medication management.
  2. Safe and Comfortable Environment: These homes prioritise the safety and well-being of residents. They are equipped with safety features and are designed to be comfortable and welcoming.
  3. 24/7 Support: Residents have access to round-the-clock care and support from trained staff members who are available to assist with emergencies or daily tasks, from taking medication to washing/dressing.
  4. Nutritious Meals: Meals are provided, and dietary needs are taken into account. Residents typically dine together in a communal dining area, promoting social interaction.
  5. Social Activities: Residential care homes often organise social and recreational activities to keep residents engaged and connected with others. These activities can vary widely, from arts and crafts to day trips in the community, with the aim to enhance residents lives. A good care home will ensure activities are tailored to the individuals.
  6. Healthcare: While not equivalent to a nursing home, some residential care homes may offer basic healthcare services. However, they are not equipped to provide the level of medical care found in nursing homes and many do not have qualified nurses as part of the team.
  7. Affordability: Residential care can be a more cost-effective option than skilled nursing care, making it accessible to those who require assistance with daily activities but not intensive medical care.

Other care options

For some people, a higher level of care is required from nursing homes that provide nursing care, specialist dementia care or support to manage mental health problems, a physical disability, or support from a qualified nurse team.

Residential care in a luxury environment

In addition to long-term residential care, Hamberley Care Homes provides a range of specialised care services, including nursing care, dementia care, care for people with neurological conditions, and respite care for a limited period or temporary stay.

As care needs change and elderly people need extra support, individuals who initially entered for residential care can transition to nursing care at the same home, with bespoke support to manage a complex medical condition.

Every Hamberley residential home will carry out a care needs assessment to determine the level of care required, and provide advice on financial assessment, self-funding options, and NHS funded nursing care requirements.

Find your nearest award-winning residential home today and discover the exceptional level of care and support the Hamberley team can offer.