In the UK, a retirement community and a nursing home have some similarities, but they also have some key differences.
A retirement community, also known as an assisted living facility, is a type of housing for older adults who are able to live independently but may need some assistance with daily activities. These communities typically provide meals, housekeeping, and maintenance, as well as space for social activities and recreational programs. They may also provide assistance with emergency response.
A nursing home, on the other hand, is a type of long-term care facility that provides a higher level of medical and personal care for older adults who are unable to live independently. Nursing homes typically provide 24-hour nursing care, as well as physical, occupational and speech therapy, and other medical services. They may also provide assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing and eating.
The main difference between a retirement community and a nursing home is the level of care provided. Retirement communities are designed for older adults who are able to live independently with some assistance, while nursing homes are designed for older adults who require more extensive medical care and assistance with daily activities.
In summary, retirement community provides assisted living services, while nursing homes provide a long-term care service.
Whiston Court
Whiston Court is a closed communities for people aged over 55. This creates a distinctive community that focuses on age-related needs – mobility, support, and appropriate services.
We found it much easier to think of it as a community of apartments with a proactive concierge.
Residents at Whiston Court have:
- 24/7 access to staff who are vital in the case of a fall or needing to contact an ambulance
- Receive a daily hot lunch cooked on site (and cake for the afternoon!)
- Communal spaces where they can interact with other residents
Unlike a care home, there’s a real effort to ensure residents are suitable. For example, Whiston Court doesn’t take on people who have complex problems who would be better suited to a care or nursing home environment.
There’s actually quite a buzz about Whiston Court, with many residents able to spend a lot of time out and about or active in the communal garden.