Care Home vs Nursing Home: What’s the Difference and Which Is Right for You?
When it comes to planning care for yourself or a loved one, understanding the various types of support available can be a little overwhelming. One of the most common questions we hear at Runwood Homes is: What’s the difference between a care home and a nursing home? While these two terms are often used interchangeably, there are key differences between them – and knowing these can help you make a more informed decision.
In this blog, we’ll explain the differences between care homes and nursing homes, what each one offers, and how to decide which type of care is best suited to your individual needs.
What Is a Care Home?
A care home provides accommodation and 24-hour personal care for individuals who may need help with everyday activities such as washing, dressing, eating meals, or taking medication. Staff are on hand around the clock to provide support with these tasks, offering peace of mind for residents and their families.
Care homes are suitable for people who may be finding it increasingly difficult to live independently at home, but who don’t require medical care from a registered nurse on a regular basis.
At Runwood Homes, our care homes are warm, welcoming places where residents can enjoy a sense of community, companionship, and routine. Daily life includes freshly prepared meals, engaging activities, and help with personal care, all in a safe and supportive environment.
What Is a Nursing Home?
A nursing home also provides personal care and accommodation, but with the addition of 24-hour medical care from qualified, registered nurses. This makes nursing homes suitable for individuals with more complex healthcare needs – such as ongoing medical conditions, mobility challenges, post-operative recovery, or palliative care.
Residents in a nursing home might require assistance with wound dressing, injections, managing chronic illnesses, or medication that must be administered by a nurse.
At Runwood Homes, our nursing care services are delivered with compassion and professionalism. We aim to ensure that every resident receives high-quality clinical care in a comfortable and homely setting.
Key Differences Between Care Homes and Nursing Homes
Here’s a quick summary of the main differences:
| Feature | Care Home | Nursing Home |
| 24-Hour Personal Care | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
| Registered Nurses On-Site | ✘ No | ✔ Yes (24/7 nursing care) |
| Medical Assistance | ✘ Not available | ✔ For ongoing or complex medical needs |
| Suitability | Ideal for those needing support with daily tasks | Ideal for those with regular nursing needs |
Which Type of Care Is Right for You or Your Loved One?
The right choice depends on individual care requirements, health conditions, and level of independence.
A care home may be suitable if:
- You or your loved one need help with everyday tasks like dressing or bathing
- You no longer feel safe living alone
- You feel isolated and would benefit from companionship and a structured daily routine
- There are no ongoing medical conditions that require nursing care
A nursing home may be more appropriate if:
- You have a long-term illness or disability that requires medical attention
- You’ve recently had surgery or an injury that requires rehabilitation under nursing supervision
- You need regular medication or treatment that must be managed by a nurse
- You have complex care needs such as advanced dementia, Parkinson’s disease, or palliative care requirements
At Runwood Homes, we offer both residential care and nursing care across many of our homes. Our team will carry out a full care assessment to ensure that the level of support matches your needs, and we’ll work closely with you and your family to recommend the most appropriate care setting.
What About Homes That Offer Both?
Some care homes, including many of those operated by Runwood Homes, offer both residential and nursing care in the same facility. This can be especially helpful if care needs are expected to change over time. Residents can move between care types without the upheaval of relocating to a different home, providing continuity and peace of mind.
These dual-registered homes are ideal for couples who may require different levels of support but still wish to live under the same roof.
Be Comfortably Confident You Are Making the Right Choice
The decision to move into a care home or nursing home can feel daunting, but understanding the difference between the two is a good starting point. It’s not just about the care provided – it’s also about choosing a home that feels right for you or your loved one, where individual needs are met with respect, compassion and dignity.
At Runwood Homes, we’re here to help you navigate your care journey with confidence. Whether you’re looking for a safe and sociable residential setting or require ongoing nursing support, we offer highly experienced guidance and quality care every step of the way.
Need More Advice?
With over 59 homes and day centres across the UK, Runwood Homes offers kind, caring and professional elderly care in surroundings that feel like home.
If you’re unsure which type of care is right for you or someone you care about, our friendly team is always happy to help.
Find a nursing care home near you, or speak to a member of our friendly team to arrange a visit.
