A Care worker visits you at home to help with personal care, medication, meals and daily tasks. You stay in your own home and receive support at agreed times. Visits can range from 30 minutes to several hours depending on your needs.
A carer lives with you in your home providing round the clock support. This is an alternative to moving into a care home and allows you to remain in familiar surroundings with one to one dedicated support.
Short term intensive support — usually up to six weeks — to help you regain independence after illness, injury or a hospital stay. Provided free by your local council and focused on helping you do things for yourself rather than doing them for you.
A care home provides 24 hour support and personal care in a residential setting. Staff are on hand around the clock to help with all aspects of daily living. Residential care homes do not have registered nurses on site — if nursing care is needed a nursing home may be more appropriate.
A nursing home provides 24 hour care with registered nurses on site. Suitable for people with complex medical needs, long term conditions or those recovering from serious illness or surgery. Nursing homes can provide both personal care and clinical nursing care.
Specialist care homes and units designed specifically for people living with dementia. Staff are trained in dementia care and the environment is designed to support safety, familiarity and wellbeing. Some nursing homes also have dedicated dementia wings.
Supported living allows people with learning disabilities, mental health needs or physical disabilities to live independently in their own home or shared accommodation. Support workers visit or live in to provide agreed levels of support. You hold your own tenancy and have control over your daily life — this is different from a care home where the provider controls the property.
Self-contained flats or bungalows designed for older people who want to live independently but with the security of support nearby. Usually includes a scheme manager or warden, emergency call systems and communal facilities. Extra care housing offers a higher level of on-site support for those with greater needs while still living in their own home.
Short term care arranged to give unpaid carers a break. Can be provided at home, in a care home or at a day centre. Respite care can be arranged through your local council following a carer's assessment, or privately. Regular respite is important for the wellbeing of both the carer and the person being cared for.
Understanding the different types of care available helps you make the right choice for you or your loved one.