As people age or experience disabilities, they may require assistance with their daily activities and personal care. In these situations, there are various options available for individuals who need this type of support, including supported living and residential care.
Both offer different types of assistance and care, and it’s important to understand the differences between the two to ensure you choose the most suitable option.
Supported Living
Supported living is also known as supportive living or supported accommodation. This is a type of service designed to provide individuals with learning or physical disabilities, autism disabilities or mental health needs within a safe and secure living environment. This type of living arrangement is usually provided in a person’s own home, a shared house or apartment, or a group home. At Strada Care we can provide the housing with our partners. Individuals may have lower or higher support needs, including around-the-clock supervision for complex needs.
The main goal of supported living is to enable individuals to live as independently as possible, while still receiving the necessary support to meet their needs. Individuals have the flexibility to choose where they live and the type of support they require. They can select from a range of support options. This includes assistance with household tasks like cleaning, cooking, and laundry. While also helping with personal care, medication management, and emotional support.
Supported living arrangements are usually very flexible and are tailored to meet each individual’s unique needs and preferences. The support provided is person-centred where staff members work with individuals to develop personalised care plans, which are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changing needs.
In supported living, individuals have more control over their daily lives and are encouraged to participate in decision-making processes where appropriate, promoting independence. They are encouraged to manage their household chores, bills and other responsibilities involved in living in their home. They also have the freedom to participate in activities they enjoy where staff members work with them to help them achieve their goals and maintain their independence. Ultimately we can also support them to progress in further education or training, and employment.
Residential Care
Residential care is a type of accommodation that provides 24-hour care and support for individuals with more complex conditions. These individuals need more intensive levels of assistance. This type of care is typically provided in group homes and nursing homes, which are usually referred to as Care Homes.
Residential care is recommended for individuals who require around-the-clock supervision and have complex medical needs. The focus of residential care is on ensuring that individuals receive the care and support they need to maintain their health and well-being.
Key Differences between Supported Living and Residential Care
Level of independence
One of the key differences between supported living and residential care is the level of autonomy encouraged to residents. In supported living, individuals have more freedom to make decisions about their lives and participate in activities they enjoy. They are encouraged to take an active role in their own care, and staff members work with them to help them achieve their goals and maintain their independence.
In residential care, individuals may have less control over their daily lives. They may be required to follow set schedules for meals, medication, and other activities.
Making an Informed Decision
When choosing between supported living and residential care, an individual’s specific level of care needs and preferences should be considered. For those who value independence and control over their daily lives, supported living may be the better option. However, for those who require more intensive levels of care or have complex medical needs, residential care may be necessary. There is huge overlap but there is a growing trend in the UK to move toward the more independent community-driven model, which is Supported Living – for Learning Disabilities and Autism, and increasingly Mental Health.
How we can help
At Strada we offer supported living across a range of locations in Sutton and Surrey.
To find out more please get in touch to discuss your requirements.