There are several types of support service that will provide for one or more specific needs.

These include:

  • Dementia care
  • Other specialist care
  • Respite care
  • Convalescent or post-operative care
  • Palliative and terminal care

Dementia care

 
Many homes offer specialist dementia support, catering for conditions such as Alzheimer’s. This may be available in a residential home or a nursing home, or in a separate dementia unit.

Other specialist care

These will be residential homes or nursing homes specialising in supporting people with one or more condition, such as Parkinson’s disease or those with learning disabilities. 

Respite care

Many carers need a break or there are times when they are unavailable. If the person they support is particularly dependent, respite care is a viable alternative. Some care homes or nursing homes will have specific rooms available for respite care, whereas others will only take people on respite care if they have vacant beds.

Convalescent / post-operative care/ intermediate care

This applies to short-term care for when someone has been discharged from hospital and needs time to recover from an illness or operation. This may include situations where people need time to regain some of their independent-living skills.  Nursing homes generally offer convalescent and post-operative care (due to the skilled nurses employed), while residential care homes only generally offer convalescent care.

Palliative and terminal care

Also known as end of life care, palliative and terminal care provides dignity and compassionate care for the terminally ill. This can include managing the pain and other symptoms of their illness, as well as providing support to carers and family members.