Dementia Care Home or Home Care? Making the Right Choice for Your Loved One
Deciding between a dementia care home and home care can feel emotionally overwhelming. You want to protect your loved one’s independence, ensure their safety, and preserve the daily moments that matter. This guide will help you understand the key differences between the two types of care, when a move might be right, how funding works, and what compassionate support looks like—especially here at Redlands House in Norwich.
What Is the Difference Between a Dementia Care Home and Home Care?
Home care involves professional carers visiting your loved one in their own home. Support ranges from brief daily visits for medication or meals, to live-in arrangements offering round-the-clock assistance. The focus is on helping them remain in familiar surroundings while receiving help and companionship.
A dementia care home provides 24/7 support in a dedicated setting. In addition to daily care, these homes are designed specifically for people living with dementia—with structured routines, specialist activities, and trained staff on hand. At Redlands House, residents benefit from a bright, homely environment and engaging activities, all delivered with dignity and kindness.
Does Dementia Care Work Better at Home or in a Care Home?
The answer depends on your loved one’s needs. Home care might be best when:
- They feel settled at home and are distressed by change
- They need light assistance like help with meals or washing
- Family live nearby and can step in quickly
- Home adaptations (e.g., grab rails) can make things safer
But a dementia care home may be safer and more suitable when:
- Falls, wandering, or missed medications become common
- There’s increased confusion or agitation, especially in the evenings
- Social isolation is a concern
- Care needs become complex or unpredictable
- Family carers feel overwhelmed
Many families find that a specialist dementia home brings calm, routine, and joy that’s hard to sustain at home. At Redlands House, residents enjoy creative sessions, gentle exercise, pet therapy, and seasonal events—all tailored with understanding and warmth.
When Is It Time to Consider a Dementia Care Home?
Look for consistent patterns, rather than isolated incidents. You might consider a move if:
- Your loved one is unsafe due to falls or leaving the house unsupervised
- Personal care becomes distressing or difficult to manage
- Eating, drinking, or taking medication is inconsistent
- Disrupted sleep affects everyone’s wellbeing
- Caregiver stress is mounting
A short respite stay can help you explore how your loved one responds to structured care in a home environment before making a long-term decision.
What Is a Dementia Nursing Home?
A dementia nursing home offers all the benefits of a residential dementia home, with the added support of registered nurses. These settings are ideal if your loved one has complex health needs such as Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, or mobility challenges requiring clinical oversight.
Redlands House offers both residential and nursing care, so your loved one’s support can adapt as their needs change. Always ask about overnight staffing, clinical cover, and personalised care planning when choosing a home.
Is Dementia Care Funded by the NHS?
Funding depends on your loved one’s health needs—not just their dementia diagnosis:
- NHS Continuing Healthcare: Full funding for those with a primary health need, after assessment.
- NHS Funded Nursing Care: A weekly contribution if your loved one is in a nursing home with registered nurses.
- Local Authority Support: If savings are below a certain threshold, the council may assist after an assessment.
- Self-funding: If assets are above the threshold, most care costs are covered privately, with some NHS contributions.
Speak with your GP or social worker for guidance—or consult an independent adviser for a full picture of your options.
Why Families Choose Redlands House
- Personalised Care: Every plan is co-created with families and regularly reviewed.
- Homely Setting: Cosy lounges, bright rooms, and home-cooked meals create warmth and familiarity.
- Meaningful Activities: From art and movement to garden socials and therapy dogs.
- Community Connections: Local partnerships bring visitors and vibrancy into the home.
- Kind, Skilled Staff: Specially trained in dementia care with a focus on dignity and trust.
Book a Respite Stay to Test the Waters
Short stays can be a positive step—for your loved one and for you. It’s a chance to experience daily life in a dementia care home, meet the team, and explore whether this supportive environment feels right. At Redlands House, families are welcome to visit, chat, and feel the difference for themselves.
How to Make the Decision as a Family
- Start early, before a crisis
- Involve your loved one as much as possible
- Visit homes at different times to see real routines
- Ask about training, overnight care, and how agitation is handled
- Trust how the place makes you feel—warmth matters
In Summary: Finding Peace of Mind
Choosing between home care and a dementia care home means balancing safety, independence, and quality of life. While home care supports familiar routines, specialist homes like Redlands House offer peace of mind, social connection, and expert support. If you’re unsure, start with respite. You’re not alone—and we’re here to help.
Learn more about life at Redlands House or explore guidance from the Alzheimer’s Society.