What's the Difference Between a Care Home and a Nursing Home?

Care and nursing homes are two long-term care options for seniors, offering different levels of personal and health care support. Learn the distinctions in services and environments to make the best choice for your loved one’s needs. 

The difference between a care home and a nursing home is the level of health care needs they serve. A care home supports those needing assistance with daily living activities but doesn’t require intensive medical care, while a nursing home provides specialized medical care for individuals with more complex health conditions.

Care homes, often called assisted living facilities, provide a supportive community environment where residents can maintain an independent lifestyle while receiving help as needed. They typically cater to those who can manage their health with minimal medical intervention, making them suitable for those who could benefit from daily help but don't require intensive medical treatment.

At care homes, seniors can access varying levels of care based on their individual needs. Some services care homes provide include:

 

• Assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming and mobility
• Meal Preparation
• Medication management 
• Housekeeping and laundry services
• Planned group activities, events, and outings 
• Transportation

Nursing homes, or skilled nursing facilities, offer more intensive support for individuals who require around-the-clock medical care and supervision. This includes those with long-term illness and chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, cancer, cardiac disease, late-stage Alzheimer's, and other forms of dementia. The staff comprises multidisciplinary medical professionals, including licensed nurses, doctors, and specialists, who can provide complex medical services. 

Nursing homes offer a full range of medically focused services equipped to manage complex health conditions, including:

 

• Skilled nursing care
• Fall prevention
• Incontinence care
• Orthopedic care
• Breathing treatments
• Rehabilitative therapies
• IV therapy
• Wound care 
• Dietary guidance 
• Assistance with activities of daily living
• Medical social services 

Choosing the right type of care for a loved one remains crucial in supporting healthy aging. If a senior requires assistance with certain daily tasks but otherwise manages independently, a care home may be the best option. However, if they exhibit significant health issues that require constant medical attention, a nursing home is a better choice.

Evaluating the level of care needed plays an important role in making this decision. Speak with your loved one's physician to learn about their health and mental well-being and present medical concerns. The doctor can offer guidance to help you decide on the most appropriate care option and recommend facilities in your area. Organizations such as your local Area Agency on Aging can provide further information about long-term care options and case management services.