As people get older, they are more likely to require some form of care to continue enjoying a happy and healthy life. However, the level of care needed can vary dramatically from person to person, depending on the specifics of their mental and physical health. As such, there are several different forms of care for the elderly available.
Each type of senior care is designed to meet slightly different needs, which means it’s important to choose the right option for you or your loved one. To help you make a more informed decision, here’s a quick guide to the main types of care available for the elderly.
Retirement Communities
A retirement community is specifically designed for older people who wish to continue living independently but in an environment that’s safe and comfortable for seniors. They generally offer an excellent range of leisure facilities and social activities, plus access to a limited number of care services.
In-Home Care
As the name suggests, in-home care is where professional care is provided in your elderly relative’s own home. A trained carer spends a certain amount of time during the day helping out with daily tasks such as cooking, shopping, personal care and cleaning, in addition to providing certain types of medical assistance.
Respite Care
This is a temporary form of care intended for people who have had surgery, suffered an accident, or experienced a period of ill health. The stay could last anywhere from a couple of weeks to several months, depending on the situation. It’s a great option for speeding up recovery and getting back to independent living as quickly as possible.
Residential Care Homes
Residential care homes provide assisted living facilities for older people who require a certain amount of support with daily tasks but don’t have serious medical conditions that need specialist care. For instance, the Signature care home in Wimbledon offers private apartments with access to luxury facilities, including a cinema, restaurants, a spa, and a library. They also run a bustling schedule of social activities and day trips to stave off issues of loneliness and social isolation.
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes are another form of assisted living facility but specifically designed for those with more complex medical needs. A qualified nursing team will be available around the clock to provide care, making this a good choice for those with more serious mental or physical health conditions or disabilities.
Care Homes Specializing in Patients with Cognitive Decline
A care home offers dedicated care for people who are suffering fromall kinds of cognitive conditions, especially those related to age, which are often degenerative in nature. They’re carefully designed to ensure that all residents are comfortable and safe and staffed around the clock by personnel who are specifically trained to help patients suffering from cognitive decline. Everything from the activities to the background music and the decor is chosen to ensure residents feel happy and relaxed at all times.
Palliative Care
Also known as end-of-life care, palliative care is for patients with untreatable or terminal medical conditions. These kinds of hospices work to ensure that their residents’ final days are as comfortable and pain-free as possible and that both they and their families feel supported during this difficult time.
