What is the difference between a care home and a nursing home?

What Is The Difference Between A Care And Nursing Home Panel

When considering care options for an elderly loved one, it's important to understand the differences between a care home and a nursing home. Both types of facilities offer care and support, but they serve different purposes and cater to different needs.

Key differences between care homes and nursing homes

	Care home	Nursing home
Purpose	Provides social care and support	Offers medical care and nursing services
Level of care	Primarily focuses on daily living activities	Provides 24/7 medical supervision and specialised care
Environment	Homelike atmosphere	Clinical and hospital-like atmosphere
Activities	Offers a variety of activities and social programmes	May have limited activities or focus on rehabilitation
Cost	Typically less expensive	Can be more expensive due to the level of medical care provided

Care homes

Care homes, also known as residential care homes or sheltered housing, are designed to provide social care and support for individuals who require assistance with daily living activities. They are often suitable for people who need help with tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, or medication management. Care homes typically offer a more homelike environment and focus on maintaining quality of life and independence.

Key features of care homes

Personal care: This includes help with bathing or showering, dressing and undressing, eating meals, and moving around (especially for those with limited mobility).
Social care and support: Care homes provide assistance with daily living activities, as well as social and emotional support.
Homelike environment: Care homes often have a more relaxed and comfortable atmosphere than nursing homes.
Activities and social programmes: Many care homes offer a variety of activities and social programmes to help residents stay engaged and connected.
Independence: Care homes aim to help residents maintain as much independence as possible.

Who benefits from a care home?

Care homes are ideal for individuals who struggle with daily tasks but do not have severe medical conditions. This may include older adults with limited mobility or early signs of dementia, but who are otherwise in relatively good health.

For example:

If your loved one is having trouble getting dressed or preparing meals but does not require 24/7 medical supervision, a care home may be the right choice.

Costs of care homes

The cost of living in a care home can vary depending on the location, services provided, and the type of room chosen. In Plymouth, the costs can range significantly. Typically, care homes are less expensive than nursing homes because they do not require the presence of medical staff around the clock.

Nursing homes

Nursing homes, also known as residential care facilities or skilled nursing facilities, are designed to provide medical care and nursing services for individuals who have complex health needs. They are often suitable for people who require 24/7 medical supervision or specialised care, such as those with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or dementia. Nursing homes typically have a more clinical and hospital-like atmosphere.

Key features of nursing homes

Medical care and nursing services: Nursing homes provide 24/7 medical supervision and specialised care, such as wound care, medication administration, and rehabilitation therapy.
Complex health needs: Nursing homes are suitable for individuals who have complex health needs and require ongoing medical attention.
Clinical environment: Nursing homes often have a more clinical and hospital-like atmosphere.
Specialised care: Nursing homes may offer specialised care for individuals with specific conditions, such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

Types of care provided

In addition to all the services offered by care homes, nursing homes have qualified nurses on-site to deliver medical care. Residents can receive:

Medication administration
Wound care and management
Monitoring of medical conditions
Assistance with mobility aids or other medical devices
Rehabilitation services such as physiotherapy

A nursing home is particularly suitable for those who have long-term health issues that require regular monitoring and treatment by health professionals.

Who benefits from a nursing home?

Nursing homes are designed for people who have more complex medical needs. This could include those recovering from surgery, those with advanced dementia, or those who need regular medical treatments that cannot be provided in a standard care home.

For example:

If your loved one has conditions such as advanced Alzheimer's, severe arthritis, or is recovering from a stroke, a nursing home may be more appropriate.

Costs of nursing homes

Due to the additional medical care provided, nursing homes tend to be more expensive than care homes. The presence of qualified nurses and the requirement for more specialised equipment and facilities drive up the cost. It's important to consider this financial aspect when making your decision.

Care homes and nursing homes in Plymouth

Plymouth is home to a range of care homes and nursing homes that offer different levels of service. Whether you're looking for something close to the city centre or in a more rural area, there are plenty of options available.

Many care homes in Plymouth offer excellent facilities, including communal lounges, beautiful gardens, and organised social activities for residents. Some of the well-known care homes in the area include:

Plymouth also has a selection of nursing homes, where residents can receive more specialised medical attention.

View an A to Z Directory of care homes

View an A to Z Directory of nursing homes

Alternatively, you can use the CQC website to view all care and nursing homes.

There are options to select the type of care you might require and the option to view the locations on a map.

Search for a care or nursing home on the CQC website

How to decide: care home vs. nursing home

Making a choice between a care home and a nursing home depends on several factors. By understanding your needs or the needs of your loved one, you can narrow down the best option. Here are some key considerations to help guide your decision:

Assess the level of medical need

Does the individual require regular medical attention or monitoring of a chronic illness?
Is the person recovering from surgery, or are they prone to frequent falls or accidents?

If the answer is "yes" to any of these questions, a nursing home may be the best option. If not, a care home may suffice.

Consider personal care needs

Can your loved one perform daily activities like bathing, eating, and dressing without assistance?
Is mobility a concern, but there's no major medical issue that requires constant supervision?

If the person needs help with basic personal tasks but doesn't have significant medical issues, a care home could be the right choice.

Financial considerations

Nursing homes are more expensive due to the medical care they provide. Can your family or the individual afford the higher cost associated with nursing home care?
Are you eligible for any local authority funding or benefits?

Look at all available financial resources, and remember that local councils, including Plymouth City Council, can offer advice or financial assistance in some cases.

Location and accessibility

Is it important for family members or friends to visit regularly?
Are there care or nursing homes near Plymouth that meet your specific needs?

Being close to loved ones can help ease the transition for the resident and make it easier for you to visit regularly.

Quality of life and comfort

Does the individual value independence and the opportunity to participate in social activities?
Do they have preferences for a more relaxed, homely setting or need clinical facilities?

Care homes tend to offer more freedom in terms of day-to-day living, while nursing homes are more clinical, though many also offer activities to keep residents engaged.

How to pay for care: financial considerations

One of the biggest concerns when considering a care home is the cost. The fees can vary significantly depending on the type of care needed and the location of the home. In Plymouth, average care home costs can range from £600 to over £1,000 per week. It's essential to understand your funding options:

Self-funding: If you or your loved one has savings or assets, such as a home, you may need to pay for the care home privately. This is known as self-funding.
Local authority funding: If your savings are below a certain threshold (£23,250 in England), you may be eligible for local authority funding. The local council will carry out a needs assessment and a financial assessment to determine if you qualify for help.
NHS Continuing Healthcare: For those with significant health needs, NHS Continuing Healthcare may cover the full cost of a care home. This is available to people whose primary care needs are health-related.
Benefits and allowances: Don't forget to check if you're entitled to benefits like Attendance Allowance or Pension Credit, which can help towards the cost of care.

Who can help me

Plymouth Age UK offers advice and guidance for older adults and their families, helping you navigate the care system.
Which? has also produced a series of later life care advice guides that might be helpful.

Frequently asked questions

What is the main difference between a care home and a nursing home?

A care home primarily provides personal care and support for individuals who require assistance with daily living activities. A nursing home offers specialised care and support for individuals with complex health needs, including those who require medical treatment.

When should I consider a care home or a nursing home?

If you or your loved one need assistance with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, or eating, a care home may be suitable. If you or your loved one require 24-hour nursing care and medical supervision, a nursing home may be necessary.

What kind of care is provided in a care home?

Care homes typically provide personal care, such as bathing, dressing, and grooming. They may also offer assistance with meals, medication, and transportation.

What kind of care is provided in a nursing home?

Nursing homes provide 24-hour nursing care and medical supervision. They may also offer specialised care for individuals with specific conditions, such as dementia or stroke.

Are care homes and nursing homes regulated?

Yes, both care homes and nursing homes are regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in the UK. The CQC inspects care homes and nursing homes to ensure that they meet quality standards.

What is the cost of a care home or a nursing home?

The cost of a care home or a nursing home can vary depending on the location, the level of care required, and the facilities offered.

Can I visit a care home or a nursing home before making a decision?

Yes, you can visit care homes and nursing homes to see the facilities and meet the staff. This can help you make an informed decision about which type of care is best for you or your loved one.

Can I live in a care home or a nursing home with my partner?

Some care homes and nursing homes offer couples accommodation. However, this is not always the case, so it's important to check with individual facilities.

Can I bring my pet to a care home or a nursing home?

Many care homes and nursing homes allow pets. However, there may be restrictions, so it's important to check with the facility beforehand.

What activities and social programmes are offered in care homes and nursing homes?

Care homes and nursing homes often offer a range of activities and social programmes, such as arts and crafts, music therapy, and outings.

Can I receive respite care in a care home or a nursing home?

Yes, both care homes and nursing homes offer respite care, which provides temporary relief for carers.

Can I choose my own doctor or healthcare provider if I live in a nursing home?

In some cases, you may be able to choose your own doctor or healthcare provider if you live in a nursing home. However, this may depend on the facility's policies.

What should I consider when choosing a care home or a nursing home?

When choosing a care home or a nursing home, consider factors such as the location, the quality of care, the facilities offered, and the cost.

How can I find a care home or a nursing home?

You can find care homes and nursing homes by using the links on this page.

What should I do if I am unhappy with the care I am receiving in a care home or a nursing home?

If you are unhappy with the care you are receiving, you should speak to the manager of the facility. You can also contact the Care Quality Commission to report your concerns.

Is the information correct?

Let us know if the information on this page is wrong and needs to be updated.

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