Types of Elderly Care: What Are They & What You Need to Know

As there are a number of different types of care to choose from, we thought it would be useful to look at what elderly care is available and what you need to know about each one.

Residential care

One of the most common types of care is residential care, which provides accommodation and 24-hour personal care. It is designed for those who may find living at home more difficult or would benefit from additional support.

This means that residents will receive support with a variety of daily activities such as washing, dressing, taking medication and going to the toilet as well as being provided with meals and social interaction.

Many residential care homes will aim to create a community-like environment and will often offer social activities and day trips to local amenities, places of worship or cultural events and attractions.

Nursing care

A nursing home will offer many of the same services found in residential care homes but will also include 24-hour nursing care. These homes support individuals living with ongoing health conditions or disabilities and are staffed with registered nurses who are equipped to provide the necessary medical care. These are particularly useful for anyone who needs regular medical attention or monitoring.

Nursing care is used in a range of different cases such as those who may have suffered a stroke, have long term conditions or need intensive rehabilitative care. Palliative care can also be administered in a nursing home for those who are approaching the end of life.

Residents can still expect to enjoy a number of social activities that are organised for them and there are usually visits from entertainers, GPs, dentists, physiotherapists and other professional providers.

Dementia care

Living with Dementia can be difficult, both for the individuals and for their loved ones, and so it can require specialist levels of care. A dementia care home will be specifically tailored to meet the needs of those living with dementia and are often purpose built to provide a secure environment that allows residents to live independently whilst still keeping them safe.

Dementia care homes can be residential, nursing, or both and will have trained staff who are specifically experienced in dementia care.

Dementia care will always prioritise safety but will also look to offer mental stimulation and structured routines to help enhance the quality of life of residents and give them a sense of familiarity.

Respite care

If an elderly relative is being cared for at home, it can place a lot of pressure on family members who provide regular care.

They are often required to offer 24-hour support with very little help and so it is important that they are able to get a break for themselves. This will help them to rest and recharge, making them more able to offer better care to their loved one and also allowing them to attend important events such as a wedding.

Respite care is on offer to provide all necessary care for an individual whilst their carer is able to take a break. It offers short term support with all the same services found in other care homes to give relatives the peace of mind needed that their loved one is in good hands.

Understanding the different types of elderly care can be very important in ensuring that a loved one receives all the services that they need.

Explore our care at Mariposa

Across our 9 homes we offer a range of elderly care to ensure your loved ones receive kind and consistent care, day and night. Our trained staff offer support with daily tasks and aim to create a warm and inviting safe place where your elderly family will experience a fulfilling life of new experiences, friendships and independence.

Browse our homes and download your free brochure to learn more about our offerings. Alternatively, give us a call on 01912 863212 for a no-obligation chat where we can arrange a tour of any home you’re interested in viewing, or fill out our contact form where one of our team members will be in touch with you shortly.