Care homes, sometimes called nursing homes or residential homes, are healthcare facilities that provide care for those who require additional support. Although most care home residents are seniors, younger adults may also require additional support if they’re unable to live independently.
There are several different kinds of care homes, each providing unique types and levels of care. It’s important to know the difference between each type of care home so you can decide which is best for your loved one when they require around-the-clock care.
It’s important to visit a care home before you decide to send your family member there. Whether you’re choosing Visiting Angels in Kennewick – Best Senior Home Care or another local facility, you can speak with the staff during your visit to determine if it’s the best choice.
Below, we’ve covered six different types of care homes to be aware of, whether you’ve got a relative in need of care or you simply want to educate yourself.
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes offer the highest level of care and are best suited for those who require 24/7 care and struggle to do daily activities independently. Often, residents in nursing homes have chronic medical conditions and disabilities that require ongoing treatment and nursing input.
Residential Care Homes
Residential care homes are similar to nursing homes but tend to house a smaller number of residents. Due to the more intimate setting, residents can receive more personalized care and enjoy a cozier setting.
Assisted Living Facilities
Another type of care home is the assisted living facility, which offers support for daily activities like eating, washing, dressing, and helps to combat health problems seniors may face.
Unlike nursing homes, assisted living facilities don’t offer around-the-clock support or medical care. They focus on maintaining each resident’s independence and hosting regular social activities to ensure residents stay healthy in every aspect.
Respite Care Facilities
For those who need temporary care or assistance, respite care facilities are a great option. When family members are unable to look after their relative for a short period or want a break, they can ensure their loved one continues to receive the care they need during this time by sending them to a respite care facility.
Palliative Care Homes
If an individual has a chronic or life-threatening illness, they may benefit from staying in a palliative care home. This type of care home offers ongoing support for residents with the aim of improving their quality of life for the foreseeable future.
Many palliative care homes provide pain relief to ensure residents are happy and content. The overall goal is to reduce symptom severity and ensure residents are comfortable instead of trying to cure an illness or disease.
Hospice Care Facilities
Hospice care facilities offer end-of-life care for people with terminal illnesses. They don’t focus on curative treatments but, instead, offer specialized medical assistance that keeps residents comfortable toward the end of their lives. Staff at hospices provide emotional support and care for residents to maintain their quality of life as much as possible.
