In light of 55 million global cases and 10 million new diagnoses yearly, comprehending diverse care types is important for those navigating dementia1. Recognising the difference between residential and nursing care is vital to ensuring the appropriate support aligns with the progression of an individual living with dementia.

As the leading provider of specialist dementia care in the UK, Vida Healthcare operates three-outstanding rated care homes, delivering bespoke care that includes both residential and nursing care for more than 200 individuals living with dementia. 

Bernadette Mossman, Healthcare Director at Vida Healthcare, shares insights on the significant differences between residential and nursing care and how these differences impact on the care people living with dementia receive…

What is residential dementia care?

Residential dementia care typically means care provided in a non-nurse-led environment where residents do not require continuous clinical oversight, but will still receive support from primary services like GPs and district nurses when needed for both physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Individuals who are in the advanced stages of dementia do not automatically mandate nursing care; in fact, residential care may often be the best choice for individuals at this stage in their journey, especially if they have lived there for some time, there is no identified clinical risk and is supported by highly-skilled care staff familiar with the residents care needs.

What is nursing care?

Nursing care becomes essential when an individual’s needs require continuous clinical monitoring. An example might include clinical oversight of long-term conditions such as diabetes or asthma. If they are unstable, they will require constant clinical review and treatment.

Common Concerns

A common concern Vida Healthcare staff receive is whether a family member requiring assistance with eating mandates nursing care. This does not necessarily indicate a need for nursing care; residential care can meet their needs adequately and suitably.

Before relocating to one of Vida’s three care homes, each resident undergoes a comprehensive assessment of needs followed by the development of a comprehensive plan of care, with the support of a resident’s family and the multidisciplinary team to determine the most suitable level of care and support for each resident.