Types of Carers and Care Settings

There are different types of carers who can be categorised as informal or formal. Informal carers are usually family members, friends, or neighbours who do not receive a formal salary, but may be beneficiaries of carers’ allowances. Formal carers include health and social care professionals such as doctors, nurses, social workers, and support workers.
Carers’ main role is to help individuals manage their physiological disorders. This includes helping with physical tasks, providing emotional support, and helping them to navigate healthcare systems.
Services provided by carers largely depend on the needs of the individual. Some individuals may need assistance with daily tasks such as getting dressed, bathing, or taking medication, whilst others may need more complex medical care.
Care settings can range from home-based care to residential and nursing homes. The choice of setting depends on the severity of the disorder, the individual’s personal preferences, and their access to resources.
Home-based care allows individuals to remain in their familiar surroundings whilst receiving necessary care. This type of care can include home health aides or nursing care.
Residential care homes provide a place to live that also offers care support for those who cannot be cared for at home. There will be staff available to provide personal care and support, such as aiding with meals, bathing, toileting and medication.
Nursing homes usually provide the same care as residential care homes, but also have qualified nurses on hand who can provide medical care.
Hospice care focuses on palliating an individual’s symptoms and providing comfort during end of life care. This type of care can take place in an individual’s home or at a hospice facility.
The care provided in the various settings is regulated by numerous policies and legislation such as the Health and Social Care Act 2012, The Care Act 2014 and the Equality Act 2010, all of which aim to offer protection, safeguard rights, and ensure high-quality care.
Multi-disciplinary teams often exist within care settings which include various healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, social workers, dietitians, and psychologists. The goal of this team is to provide comprehensive care that addresses all needs of the individual.