When it comes time to consider full-time care for a loved one, many families wonder: is nursing care at home or a care home the better choice? The decision can be challenging, especially as “care home” broadly describes a variety of residential care options.
While both settings offer support for daily activities like personal care, there are key differences. Nursing care at home allows your loved one to receive personalised, professional care within the comfort of their own home, with tailored support ranging from companionship to specialised medical assistance. In contrast, care homes provide a structured, supportive environment with 24-hour assistance, where residents have access to on-site amenities and social engagement.
In this article, we’ll explore the main distinctions between nursing care at home and care home options, helping you decide which best suits your loved one’s needs for comfort, health, and quality of life.
What are the differences between nursing care at home and care homes?
When deciding between nursing care at home and a care home, it’s important to understand the key differences in the type and level of care provided.
Nursing care at home offers medical support and assistance in the comfort of one’s own home. It is ideal for those who require professional nursing care but prefer to remain in a familiar environment. Services can include medication management, condition monitoring, wound care, and light housekeeping duties. Nurse-led carers provide tailored care to meet the specific needs of the individual, offering a more personalised approach.
On the other hand, care homes—whether residential or nursing homes—provide full-time accommodation and support for individuals who can no longer live independently. A residential care home is designed for individuals who need help with daily activities like dressing, bathing, and meal preparation but do not require medical care. Meanwhile, nursing homes offer a higher level of care, with qualified nurses available on-site 24/7 to manage complex medical needs such as administering medications and monitoring chronic conditions.
The key difference lies in the level of medical care. Nursing care at home can provide medical support in a less intrusive way, allowing individuals to stay in a familiar setting, while care homes, especially nursing homes, provide comprehensive 24-hour care in a dedicated facility.
Cost-wise, nursing care at home can be more affordable compared to the weekly fees of care homes. However, costs will vary depending on the level of care required and your location.
In summary, nursing care at home is ideal for those who want to remain in their own home while receiving medical care, whereas care homes are better suited for individuals who require more extensive daily living assistance and 24-hour care in a facility.
What do residential care homes provide?
Residential care homes offer 24-hour personal care and support for individuals who need assistance with daily tasks, such as washing, dressing, or eating, but do not require the regular medical attention provided by a nursing home. Depending on individual needs, this type of care can be arranged on a short-term or long-term basis.
Residential care homes cater primarily to older adults who can no longer manage independently. This includes support for those with physical disabilities, learning disabilities, mental health issues, or age-related needs that impact personal hygiene, medication management, or mobility. Although some homes can address limited medical needs through visiting health professionals, the primary focus remains on daily living support rather than complex medical care.
Staff members in residential care homes are trained to administer medication and provide the necessary personal care but may not hold the qualifications needed for more intensive medical care. In addition to everyday care, these homes also aim to foster an engaging social environment by organising activities, events, and occasional outings, helping residents stay active and connected.
Due to the lower level of medical support provided, residential care homes are typically less expensive than nursing homes, making them a more affordable option for individuals who do not require continuous medical supervision.
What services are provided by nursing care at home?
Nursing care at home offers a wide range of services to ensure that individuals receive the medical attention, support, and assistance they need in the comfort of their own homes. This type of care is ideal for those who require more advanced medical treatment or rehabilitation but prefer to stay in a familiar environment.
Here are some of the key services provided by nursing care at home:
- Personal care: Caregivers provide help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and eating. This ensures that the individual maintains their hygiene and personal comfort without needing to leave home.
- Administration of medications: Caregivers assist with the administration of medications, ensuring that prescriptions are taken on time and in the correct dosages. They can also monitor for potential side effects and help with any adjustments to medication regimens.
- Chronic disease management: Caregivers offer support for individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or COPD. They monitor vital signs, track symptoms, and educate patients on how to manage their health effectively.
- 24-hour care: For those with more complex medical needs, nursing care at home can be available 24 hours a day, ensuring round-the-clock support and monitoring.
- Companionship and emotional support: In addition to physical care, caregivers provide emotional support, helping individuals feel more at ease and reducing the isolation that can come with illness or ageing.
Care home or nursing care at home for dementia?
When deciding between a care home and nursing care at home for a loved one with dementia, there are several factors to consider, including the stage of dementia, the individual’s preferences, and the level of care needed. Both options offer valuable support, but the best choice will depend on the person’s specific needs.
Nursing care at home for dementia
Nursing care at home for dementia allows individuals to remain in a familiar environment while receiving medical support. This option can be especially comforting for someone with dementia, as it reduces the stress and confusion that can come with moving to a new setting. Nurse-led carers can provide personalised care tailored to the individual’s condition, including managing medications, offering physical assistance, and helping with day-to-day activities. Additionally, it offers the advantage of one-on-one care, allowing the person to maintain their routines and stay close to family.
However, nursing care at home may not be suitable for individuals in the later stages of dementia, as their needs may be too complex for home carers to adequately manage, especially if they require constant supervision or are prone to wandering.
On the other hand, care homes for dementia—specifically designed dementia care homes—are structured to provide 24-hour care in a safe and supportive environment. These homes are staffed with professionals who specialise in dementia care and are designed to cater to the specific needs of people with dementia, such as dealing with memory loss, confusion, and behaviour changes. A care home can offer more intensive care, including assistance with mobility, meals, and personal care, as well as managing advanced stages of dementia.
Some care homes have specialised dementia units with additional security measures to keep residents safe, especially if wandering or other challenging behaviours are a concern. However, care homes can feel less familiar or comfortable compared to staying at home, which may be a factor if the individual is in the earlier stages of dementia and still able to recognise their surroundings.
Nursing care at home for dementia can often provide a more familiar and personalised approach, particularly in the early to moderate stages of dementia, while care homes for dementia offer a more structured and secure environment that may be more suitable for those in the later stages of the condition. Choosing the right option depends on the individual’s specific needs, preferences, and the level of care required.
Which is right for you?
Deciding between a residential care home and nursing care at home can feel overwhelming, but starting with a care needs assessment from your local council is an essential first step. This assessment, conducted by a social worker or healthcare professional, will evaluate the level of support required for you or your loved one and provide recommendations on the most suitable care setting.
A care needs assessment looks at various factors, including mobility, medical needs, daily living activities, and cognitive health, and helps determine whether a residential care home or home care is the better fit. It also provides a chance to explore potential financial assistance options, as the council can advise on funding support based on your circumstances.
Once you have the assessment results, you’ll be better prepared to make an informed decision about the type of care environment that will best meet your needs or those of your loved one, ensuring a comfortable, supportive, and suitable setting for the future.
Expert nurse-led care at home
At Prestige Nursing & Care, we have provided nurse-led care to people in their own homes for nearly 80 years. Our clients, their families, commissioning groups and case managers trust us to provide skilled and compassionate nursing care focused on improving health and overall well-being – and all in the place people love most, their own home.
Call us on 0808 239 1525 and our friendly care experts will discuss your care and support needs. You can also fill out our online enquiry form or email info@prestige-nursing.co.uk. We provide impartial guidance and advice so you make the right choice for you and your family.
