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It may be agreed that the best option is a move into a home providing residential or nursing care. Whether a person with dementia needs residential or nursing care depends on the degree of their dementia and on any other illnesses and disabilities.

Most community homes offering residential care are run privately or by voluntary organizations. Most nursing homes offering nursing care are also run privately or by voluntary organizations. Some homes are able to provide both residential and nursing care.

Residential care for Dementia Patients

Most residential homes (group homes) provide personal care for the residents who need it. This might include help with dressing, washing, going to the toilet and taking medicine. If you are considering a residential home, find out whether suitable care can still be offered if the person with dementia becomes more confused and dependent. A move to another home can be very upsetting.

Nursing care for Dementia Patients

Nursing homes always have a trained nurse on duty and can offer 24-hour nursing care in addition to personal care. Nursing care may need to be considered if the person with dementia is very confused and frail, has difficulties walking, has other illnesses or disabilities or is doubly incontinent, for example.

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Reviewed: 02/2006