carehome

Carehome is a term used in many countries to describe a residential facility that provides accommodation and ongoing personal care for adults who require help with daily activities due to age, illness, or disability. Care homes may be described as residential care homes, care homes with nursing, or, in some regions, as assisted living or convalescent homes. The exact mix of housing, care and medical services varies by country and provider.

Typical services include tailored support with activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, meal preparation), help with medication, mobility assistance, laundry and housekeeping, meals, social and recreational activities, and transport to appointments. Some facilities employ on-site registered nurses and provide 24-hour supervision, while others rely on visiting health professionals for clinical care.

Regulation and quality monitoring are carried out by national or local authorities. Providers must meet standards for safeguarding, resident rights, infection control, staffing, and safety. Regular inspections or ratings help inform prospective residents and families. Funding arrangements differ: residents may pay privately, receive government or social care subsidies, or obtain funding through insurers or long-term care schemes, with assessment processes used to determine eligibility.

Admission decisions consider care needs, safety, the suitability of the living environment, staffing levels, and anticipated costs. In many countries, care homes are part of a broader continuum of care that includes home care, day services, and hospital or hospice options. The sector faces ongoing challenges such as workforce shortages, funding constraints, and varied quality across providers.