Whether you are looking for care for a loved on or yourself
, there are a number of things you need to consider.
There are a number of significant differences between residential homes and nursing homes and they also differ in the type of care they provide.
A residential home provides care and support to people that cannot be supported in their own homes. Trained care staff work at the home and residents have access to district nurses which regularly visit the facility. Nursing homes differ in that they have qualified nursing staff on had 24 hours a day to support the needs of resident's if they are too complex to be met in a residential care home.
Whichever type you opt for, it is worth remembering that both residential and nursing homes have to registered and inspected by the regulating body Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI).
Paying for care homes differs depending on your circumstances. The law states that anyone that is placed in a care home by a local authority is expected to pay toward the cost of their care. The exception to this is if the person receives no benefit or pension and has no other income, no savings and no property.
If you can afford to, you will be expected to pay for the full cost of the accommodation. For those that are financially dependent on their husband or wife, their partner will is likely to be asked to contribute towards the cost of your care. For advice on choosing a care home it is best to speak to a social worker or care manager. Often a district nurse, health visitor and even your doctor may be able to give you advice and help you to make a decision as to whether you should consider residential care homes or residential nursing homes.