As we age, we can become more susceptible to disease. Or conditions we already have become more acute or difficult to manage. But what if you are on your own and already struggling at home? That’s when you may need to take the decision to move into a nursing home, to give you the additional support that you need. In 2020, there were 490,326 people living in care homes in the United Kingdom. So, what can you expect from nursing care in a residential home?
If you require specialised medical attention and are struggling to cope at home, nursing care in a residential home becomes a viable option to ensure your safety, wellbeing and comfort. Residential nursing homes, also known as long-term care facilities, are designed to provide round-the-clock care and support. Their residents need assistance with their daily medical and living activities. Or they may have medical conditions that necessitate continuous supervision. In this blog, we will explore what to expect from nursing care in a residential home. Shedding light on the services, facilities and benefits that residents can expect to experience:
The nursing care provides support, medical services, and supervision for residents with chronic health conditions, disabilities, or post-operative care needs. Nurses and other trained medical staff administer medications. They can monitor vital signs and manage wound care. Also coordinating with healthcare professionals when necessary, such as a GP and nursing home Doctor.
Each resident’s needs are unique, and nursing homes understand this well. Upon arrival (or even beforehand), staff at the residential home will develop a PCP for every new individual resident, tailored to their medical conditions, mobility requirements, dietary preferences, and social and emotional needs. The care plan will ensure that the resident receives the appropriate level of attention and support for their well-being.
One of the most crucial aspects of nursing care in a residential home is the presence of professional, fully-trained and compassionate staff. Nursing homes employ trained nurses, nursing assistants, caregivers, and other healthcare professionals. They are all adept at addressing the specific needs of elderly or medically fragile residents. They also generally have a doctor in residence, or on 24-hour call, to oversee the care given. You can expect the staff to be well-qualified, caring, and focused on ensuring the safety and comfort of all residents.
Residents in nursing homes often need help with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, eating and mobility. The extent of these needs will vary from individual to individual, which is part of the point of a PCP. Nursing care facilities provide the necessary assistance to ensure residents can maintain their independence, as far as is possible, as well as their dignity. That’s all part of helping you live the best life you can.
The staff in nursing homes recognise the importance of social interactions and recreational activities when it comes to residents’ mental and emotional wellbeing. Each Aurem home has a dedicated team of care assistants to organise various social events, outings, games and hobbies, to keep residents engaged and connected with their fellow residents. Once more, the individual’s PCP signposts the types of activity that the individual resident would like and is able to get involved with.
A well-balanced and nutritious diet is vital for every resident’s health and wellbeing. Aurem care homes have dietary experts, co-ordinating with chefs, to plan and prepare meals according to each individual resident’s dietary needs and preferences. Special diets for residents with specific medical conditions form part of this planning and consideration.
One of the fundamental requirements for residential nursing homes is to prioritise the safety and security of residents. To achieve this, there are measures in place to prevent accidents and ensure emergency protocols are followed in case of any unexpected situations.
For residents recovering from surgeries or dealing with injuries, nursing care facilities can offer rehabilitation and therapy services. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy are available to aid recovery and go as far as is possible to improve quality of life.
Nursing care in a residential home provides a supportive and nurturing environment, based on an individual’s need for continuous medical attention. Together with any assistance they need with daily living activities. With a professional and compassionate staff, personalised care plans, medical services, social activities, and dietary support, residents can expect a comfortable and fulfilling life in a well-managed residential home. Families, meanwhile, can find peace of mind knowing their loved ones are receiving the care they need in a safe and caring environment.
Aurem Care homes are all about people caring about people, we believe our care homes should be happy homes for loved ones.
Where older adults can forge worthwhile, meaningful relationships with our team and make new friends.
