Many modern care and support services are designed to help people live independently in their own homes. This glossary explains some of the most common terms you may hear. If you have any questions, please speak to your social worker, occupational therapist, or contact the Hartlepool Support Hub.
Glossary of terms
Assistive technology
A general term for services like home call, telecare, and telehealth. These use sensors or alarms in your home to help keep you safe.
Domiciliary care / home care
Home care is sometimes called domiciliary care and refers to personal care in your home.
Home call
Also known as warden call. An alarm and intercom system in your home. You can press a button or pull a cord to call for help. A staff member will speak to you through the intercom or visit if needed.
Home help
Support with domestic tasks such as cleaning, laundry or shopping.
Personal care
This is to help with talking care of yourself rather than looking after your home. Trained staff will visit you to help you with:
- bathing and using the toilet
- preparing and eating meals
- taking medication
- getting in and out of bed
This may include physical help or reminders. Staff can also support you to go out into the community.
Residential care
Care homes registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in which people live and are cared for by the home’s owners and/or employees. Residents usually have their own bedroom and eat meals in a communal dining area. Homes tend to have communal lounges and sometimes a communal garden too. Some residential homes offer registered nursing care. These residential care homes are sometimes called nursing homes. Some homes provide specialist care for people with certain conditions, such as dementia.
Sheltered housing
Groups of flats or houses, often for older people. A warden usually checks in daily. Some wardens live on site.
Special needs housing
Homes that are purpose-built or adapted for people with disabilities. Features may include wheelchair access, walk-in showers or lowered kitchen worktops.
Specialist domiciliary care
Home care tailored to people with specific conditions or illnesses.
Telecare
A system of alarms and sensors connected to a call centre. Some alarms are activated manually, while others (like fall detectors or smoke alarms) work automatically. There are various types of telecare alarms designed to suit different people’s needs. Examples include smoke and flood detectors, bed and chair occupancy sensors and fall detectors.
Telehealth
Technology that helps you monitor your health at home. This may include equipment to check your blood pressure or blood sugar levels, reducing the need for GP visits.