Understanding ‘medical care’ in residential aged care homes

If you’ve only just started looking into aged care for a loved family member, you might not be fully aware of what ‘medical care’ encompasses when it comes to residential aged care. In this setting, medical care refers to the range of healthcare services that are offered at an aged care home to support elderly residents and take care of their physical and mental well-being. 

In residential aged care homes, medical care is overseen by healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses and allied health practitioners. They work collaboratively to manage and support the health of their residents.

Why is medical care important in residential aged care homes? 

Medical care within aged care homes is essential as many residents have conditions that require constant management, monitoring and specialised care. In some cases, residents need immediate attention, which is when our RNs, ENs and AINs can provide immediate medical attention onsite. 

If a resident has a chronic disease such as diabetes or a heart condition, regular medical attention can help to prevent complications and help maintain the resident’s quality of life. When residents rely on regular medication, they will ensure it is accurately administered to ensure the correct dosage and provide proper medication management.

Medical care in residential aged care homes allows staff to offer personalised care to meet the unique needs of every resident and helps residential aged care staff ensure a holistic approach to their care. It gives resident’s loved ones peace of mind, knowing that their family members are receiving professional medical attention when they need it. 

What does medical care encompass in aged care homes?  

While every residential aged care home is unique, medical care often encompasses a range of services, which could include, and isn’t limited to regular health checks, medication management, wound care and treatment for acute and chronic health conditions. Health professionals are on hand to attend to any medical emergencies that may arise and work with care staff to ensure an individual and tailored approach to healthcare for each resident. 

As well as providing ongoing care, medical professionals also provide preventative measures for residents, such as immunisation and other preventative measures to encourage residents to live healthy and active lifestyles. 

With mental health being a significant factor in overall well-being, residential aged care homes can also provide allied health professionals and staff who can help residents with emotional support, mental health conditions and promote cognitive well-being in daily activities. 

Can residents keep their regular doctor after moving into aged care? 

This is a common question we hear at HillView Care. Before moving into residential aged care, many residents have been attending the same family doctor for years and feel comfortable in the care they receive. 

While we do have visiting doctors here at HillView Care, we also encourage residents to keep their regular doctors and continue to receive medical care from them. 

Medical care at HillView Care Merrimac and Ashmore

At HillView Care we offer 24/7 medical care at both our Ashmore and Merrimac aged care homes. As well as our RNs, Ens and AINs, HillView Care has an onsite physiotherapist who plays a pivotal role in enhancing the health and well-being of our residents. We also have regular GPs who visit both our homes. 

To learn more about medical care at HillView Care, call our team on 07 5559 3222 or book an appointment to visit our Gold Coast aged care homes.