107 In your opinion, what are the advantages of living in residential homes? Do you know the difference between a lounge and a living room? Quite simply, a lounge is a public place, while a living room is a personal place in people s homes. frailty: fragilit GP (General Practitioner): medico di base laundry: lavanderia lounge: soggiorno on duty: in servizio prospective: potenziale referral: richiesta OUT-OF-HOME CARE The choice between private care for the elderly at home and out-of-home care is challenging. However, although a number of studies have shown that person-centred care at home has a greater positive impact on well-being, sometimes there are no other options than residential homes or similar types of accommodation . Nursing or residential homes Residential homes can provide permanent accommodation when illness, disability, or frailty makes living independently difficult or impossible. In a residential home elderly people have their own bedrooms, sometimes with a private bathroom, but share communal facilities with other people. Regular meals and personal care such as bathing are provided, as well as emotional support. A nursing home might be more suitable for people who need nursing care on a more frequent basis; the services offered are the same as in residential homes, but a qualified nurse is also on duty 24 hours a day. Sheltered accommodation Sheltered accommodation housing is an option for older people or people with a disability who wish to remain independent but have help available should they need it. It is usually a flat or a bungalow specially designed and built with the needs of older people or people with a disability in mind. Sheltered housing schemes usually provide fairly modern accommodation, with communal facilities such as a lounge and a laundry, together with support and assistance. Many sheltered flats are located in popular areas close to bus routes. With this type of accommodation, people can take part in activities with people of a similar age in the communal facilities. Supported living services Supported living services can help if you do not want to live in residential care but you re finding it difficult to cope at home. They are a combination of suitable accommodation which can be your own home with some forms of personal care (like help with washing or cooking). Some supported living homes are shared by 2 or 3 people with a similar health problem. Staff usually visit the home to help you and do simple tasks such as shopping, housework, and repairs. They can also help with administrative tasks and personal care. Day centres Day centres are an option for people who can live independently: they provide a range of activities and services for older people who can take part in a particular activity or spend the whole day socialising, going back to their own home at night. To join a day centre, a referral can be made by the prospective user, a relative, the GP or any other professional carer, to arrange an assessment of needs. 214 ADuLTS AnD ELDERLy pEopLE