Choosing a care home is rarely a simple decision. One of the most common questions families ask is: “What’s the difference between residential care and nursing care, and what happens if care needs change over time?”
At Signature at Banstead, we’re introducing nursing care as part of our offering. This isn’t about changing who we are. It’s about strengthening our care and giving residents and families greater reassurance for the future.
Daniel Rees, General Manager at Signature at Banstead, explains what this means in practice.
What is residential care?
“Residential care, sometimes called assisted living in care homes, supports people with day-to-day living in a safe, welcoming environment.
That includes things like personal care, medication support, companionship and a lifestyle that helps people stay independent and enjoy their day-to-day life.
For many people, that level of support is right for a long time. But as needs change, more clinical support can become necessary.”
What is nursing care in a care home?
“Nursing care includes everything you’d expect from residential care, but with the addition of qualified nurses on site to provide more complex clinical support.
That might include managing long-term conditions, supporting recovery after a hospital stay, wound care or end of life care. The key difference isn’t just the level of care, it’s who provides it.
In a residential setting, more complex needs are often supported by visiting NHS district nurses. They do a great job, but they’re in and out. They don’t have the same connection with residents that a permanent team can build.
Bringing nursing in-house means care is delivered by people who really know the individual.”
Residential care vs nursing care
“Put simply, residential care focuses on personal and lifestyle support, while nursing care adds clinical expertise. In many homes, when needs increase, it can mean moving.
Our approach at Banstead is different. We’re building a model where people can stay.”
What happens if care needs increase?
“The biggest benefit is that people don’t have to move. No matter how needs develop, we can support them here. Residents can remain in familiar surroundings, with the same team around them.
That stability makes a huge difference, especially at a time when consistency really matters.”
More personal and consistent care
“When someone becomes more vulnerable, having someone on hand who knows them really well makes a huge difference, not just for the resident, but for their family too.
There are also aspects of nursing care that are very personal. Having a familiar face rather than a stranger coming in can make a real difference to how comfortable someone feels.”
Can couples stay together?
“We want people to feel confident they can stay here, even as life changes.
Introducing nursing care means we can support couples with different needs to remain together, rather than facing the possibility of being separated. It removes a lot of uncertainty for families.”
Does nursing care cost more?
“There shouldn’t be a sudden change in cost because of nursing. The funding is applied for and managed by us, so it’s straightforward for families and doesn’t create additional stress at what is often already a difficult time.”
Looking for care in Banstead?
If you’re exploring care options for yourself or a loved one, our team at Signature at Banstead is here to help.
Find out more: Signature at Banstead | Signature Care Homes
