Care Homes Vs Nursing Homes in the UK

In the UK, care homes and nursing homes are both types of residential facilities that provide care and support for individuals who are unable to live independently due to age, illness, or disability.

At Lidder Care, we operate both a residential care home, Newgate Lodge, and a nursing home, Lowmoor Nursing Home. Whilst we offer the same level of care, support and service at all of our homes, there are some key differences between nursing homes and care homes:

Care Homes:

• Care homes, also known as residential care homes, offer accommodation and personal care to residents who may need assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, eating, and mobility.
• Staff members in care homes are trained to provide non-medical support, focusing on helping residents maintain their quality of life and independence.
• Care homes often cater to individuals who require minimal medical attention and assistance with their daily routines.
• While care homes may have staff on-site around the clock, they generally do not have a registered nurse available 24/7.
• Residents in care homes usually have their medical needs addressed by visiting healthcare professionals, like general practitioners or district nurses.

Nursing Homes:

• Nursing homes, also referred to as care homes with nursing, provide similar accommodation and personal care services as care homes, but they also have a higher level of medical care available on-site.
• Nursing homes have registered nurses and other healthcare professionals on staff to provide more intensive medical care and supervision to residents.
• These facilities are suitable for individuals with more complex medical needs, chronic illnesses, or conditions that require regular medical attention and monitoring.
• Nursing homes may provide services such as administering medications, wound care, physical therapy, and other medical treatments.
• The presence of registered nurses and medical staff allows nursing homes to offer a higher level of medical care compared to care homes.

Both care homes and nursing homes in the UK are regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), which ensures that these facilities meet certain standards of care and safety.

When considering a care or nursing home for yourself or a loved one, it’s essential to thoroughly research the facilities, visit them in person, and inquire about the services they offer to determine which type of facility best meets the individual’s needs.