Finding the right help and care for elderly parents can be a challenge. Understanding the language of elderly care and care definitions – particularly when you’re in an emergency situation or struggling to cope – can make the challenge even harder.
From acronyms to slightly different terminology for what turns out to be the exact same thing… if you need to learn to speak the language then read on.
This is our introduction to the language of elderly care, all the important things you might need to know – in plain English. Just click on the tab to open the definition.
Care definitions
Care needs assessment
A care needs assessment is carried out by the local authority. A social worker will make an assessment of the level of assistance and services a person needs to remain independent at home, or move to residential care. A care assessment will provide a plan for care, what services to contact. A follow up financial assessment will determine how the care may be funded, by the local authority or the individual and their family.
Carer's assessment
A carers assessment, carried out by the local authority, will identify what support a carer may need, and be entitled to. This support aims to provide some relief for carers in term of help around the house, activities for them or even respite care.
Care at home
Care at home (or as it is also called domiciliary or day care) refers to care and support provided at home on either a full time or part time basis. Homecare is also known as visiting care and live-in care. Agencies providing home care will conduct a care assessment as part of the process.
Care home and residential home
A residential care home provides a permanent residence for someone who needs some support and care, and companionship. It does not provide full time medical care on site (see nursing home below), or specialist care such as dementia care. Care homes in the UK are regulated by the Care Quality Commission.
End of life care and palliative care
End of life care (or palliative care) is support provided to those in last months or years of their life, allowing patients to live as well as possible and die with dignity. It can be provided at home, in care homes, hospitals or hospices.
Financial assessment
A financial assessment will be carried out by the local authority alongside a care needs assessment. In England anyone with more than £23,250 in cash and assets must fund their own care. A financial assessment will determine who will pay for any care – the local authority or the person needing the care.
NHS continuing care
NHS continuing care provides fully funded care, at home or in a care home, for someone with multiple and complex health and care needs. These are known as "primary health needs". A diagnosis of dementia is not in itself a primary health need. This care package is provided outside a hospital setting. It is complex to assess and not everyone with a long term condition or disability is eligible.
NHS healthcare
Healthcare is provided free at the point of delivery including NHS hospitals, GPs, district nurses and medication.
Nursing home
A nursing home provides the same residential care and support as a care home, but with the addition of qualified nurses on staff at all times.
Respite care
Respite care is planned short term or temporary care designed to provide relief to carer. This can range from a few hours to weeks at a time.
Social care
Social care is support and help for everyday needs provided by local authorities. Eligibility for funding is means tested.
The important thing of course is to ask. To ask questions if you’re unsure about what a professional is talking about because the terminology is so convoluted and different in different situations and settings. Good luck!
