Unit Care
What is Unit Care?
Unit Care is a type of nursing care in which residents receive the necessary care that they need while living in an environment that is as close to their home as possible. Often ‘Group Care’ is utilized at intensive care nursing homes, but unit care allows residents to live together and with staff while also having their individual personality and lifestyle rhythm considered and respected. We provide ‘dignified, personalized care’.
The Perks of Unit Care
Within Unit Care, 1 unit is a group of about 10 people. Each person has their own private room. It’s possible for residents to bring their own personal belongings, furniture, and memorabilia within their room so long as it does not pose any health or safety risks. Regarding sleep and meal schedules, we do our best to match the needs of each individual within reason. Within each unit, there is also a shared ‘living’ space where residents can interact and communicate with each other and staff as well. In general, selected staff members will live together with the residents of a unit, creating an atmosphere of familiarity where the care and independence of each individual resident is respected.
Private Rooms
The greatest perk is that each resident has their own private room to provide them with privacy. Residents may bring their own personal belongings and furniture, etc., and it’s easy and comfortable for friends and family to visit.
Communication in the ‘Living’ Space
Within each unit, there is a shared space in which residents and staff can easily communicate and interact. Residents can eat together, partake in recreational activities planned by familiar staff members, and simply come together.
Thorough Care Designed to
Fit Each Individual
Unit Care is a type of nursing care in which residents receive the necessary care that they need while living in an environment that is as close to their home as possible. Often ‘Group Care’ is utilized at intensive care nursing homes, but unit care allows residents to live together and with staff while also having their individual personality and lifestyle rhythm considered and respected. We provide ‘dignified, personalized care’. Caregivers and other management staff live within the unit, and residents can receive care from designated, familiar staff. So the meal, toileting, bathing, etc., needs of each individual resident can be more easily grasped and understood by care staff, allowing for the provision of thorough, proper care.
Residents can Safely Live their
Normal Lifestyle
With private spaces and being surrounded by familiar faces, residents can also receive the support they need when they need it. It’s safe to say that it’s an environment that allows residents to feel safe and secure. The main goal of unit care is to allow residents to continue their daily life for as long as possible, even if they require care.
The Pros and Cons of Unit Care
Pros
- We can provide ‘dignified care’ to match the needs of each individual.
- It’s easy to maintain privacy as each resident is provided a private room.
- Residents can receive care in an environment close to home by bringing their own belongings.
- There is a shared space, the ‘Living’ area, where relationships can be formed with other residents and staff.
- It’s been reported that wandering in elderly people with dementia is reduced.
- It’s easier to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Cons
- Compared to general nursing homes, the equipment and construction costs are quite high, so the burden on residents such as living expenses and utility costs can be higher.
- If there is a severe issue between residents, relocation may be required.
- Some people may feel lonely.
Life in Unit Care
Enjoying Food In an Environment
Close to Home
Meal preparation takes place within each unit. Residents can watch the staff while they prepare meals, and experience a feeling similar to being at home. On top of regular meals, there are seasonal events and meal choices, ‘local event’ meals 4 times per week, and cake baking and other snack making recreational activities are also highly rated.
Individual Care from Numerous Experts
At Shinaikai’s [Shinai No Oka], there are long-term care professionals, functional training experts, nutritionists, nurses, care managers, and life counselors on site. They all respectively support residents through coordination. For residents with health concerns, they can consult resident nurses, and also communicate easily with their family through staff if support is needed. This way, they can feel safe and secure at all times.
Comfortable Bathing
Our bathing facility at Shinai No Oka features lifts that allow seated bathing, reducing the burden on both residents and care staff during bathing. We have taken appropriate measures for all residents to bathe comfortably just like at home, including a support arm for gripping while standing, seated bathing style without the use of a lift, and a sliding-style bath for those in wheelchairs instead of the conventional swivel-style.
Looking Forward to Special Days
In each Unit, there are both unique and seasonal events. For example, visits and performances from local elementary school students, halloween parties where nursery school children participate, hula dance lessons held by volunteer groups, and more. These events are great opportunities to meet and interact with other local people, and add a bit of spice to daily life.