Care homes

Care homes provide 24 hour support to people who feel they are no longer able to manage living independently. In these cases, people may either consider moving to a care home on a permanent basis, or can choose to stay at a care home for shorter periods of time, often known as a respite break. 

Respite breaks can be offered to people who have a chronic illness or disability, either live alone or have a carer. The number of respite breaks you can have will depend on what help you need. Respite breaks can be useful if you or your carer are finding it difficult to cope.

There are two main types of home, Nursing Homes and Residential Homes. 

Nursing Homes are generally suitable for people with more complex needs who require nursing care. These homes employ both nursing and care staff.

Residential homes are for people who are more independent with their needs. These homes generally do not employ nursing staff but have access to community nurses through the NHS.

Which home you should choose will depend on your level of need. Your social worker will help to advise you on this.

There are 17 care homes in East Lothian. East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership manages 4 care facilities:  1 nursing home and 3 residential homes.

All care homes are inspected and regulated by the Care Inspectorate.

View Care Inspectorate reports
 

Requesting a care home

If you feel that either yourself or a loved one need a residential placement please find out more about the care assessment process. 

Learn about getting a care assessment

Useful information 

You might find some of the leaflets available from Age UK helpful when considering moving into a care home.

View Age UK website (ageuk.org.uk)