Types of senior care explained, with local terms in France, Italy, Spain and Portugal
Choosing a care home · 3 min read · Last updated 30 October 2026
"Care home" can mean very different things. Understanding the main levels of care helps you choose a home that fits your relative's needs, and the local terms below help you search and talk to providers in each country.
The main types of care
Independent or supported living
For people who manage most things themselves but want company, security and some services such as meals, housekeeping or an alarm. There is no regular personal care.
Residential care (personal care)
Round-the-clock support with washing, dressing, meals and medication, in a home setting. This suits people who need regular help but whose health is relatively stable. NHS guidance describes residential homes as providing personal care.
Nursing and long-term medical care
For people with ongoing medical needs who require qualified nurses and medical oversight. The NHS describes nursing homes as providing 24-hour care from qualified nurses on top of personal care. Some homes offer both levels on one site.
Memory (dementia) care
Specialist staff training, a calm and secure environment, and activities designed for people living with dementia. Some homes have dedicated units, and some accept short, structured stays for people with more severe symptoms.
Day care and short stays (respite)
Day centres offer company, meals and activities while family carers get a break. Short or temporary stays in a care home can cover a recovery period or give a family time to plan.
Care at home
Carers or nurses visiting a person's own home. Often the right first step when needs are low, and a useful comparison to keep in mind before deciding on a move.
Local terms: what to search for
| Type of care | France | Italy | Spain | Portugal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Residential care (personal care) | EHPAD; résidence autonomie for more independent residents | Casa di riposo; residenza protetta | Residencia de mayores | ERPI (lar) |
| Nursing and long-term medical care | EHPAD with a medical team; USLD (long-term care unit) | RSA (residenza sanitaria assistenziale) | Residencia with nursing and medical staff | ERPI with nursing care |
| Memory (dementia) care | EHPAD with an Alzheimer or protected unit | RSA with an Alzheimer unit (nucleo Alzheimer) | Residencia with a dementia unit | ERPI with dementia support (ask the home) |
| Day care and short stays | Accueil de jour; hébergement temporaire | Centro diurno; ricovero di sollievo | Centro de día; estancia temporal | Centro de dia; acolhimento temporário |
| Care at home | Services d'aide et de soins à domicile | Assistenza domiciliare | Servicio de ayuda a domicilio | Serviço de apoio domiciliário |
Terms and categories vary by region and provider, and one building often offers several levels of care. Use these as search terms, then confirm exactly what each home is licensed and staffed to provide.
Which type is right?
A doctor or a formal local assessment is the reliable way to establish what care someone needs. In France, Italy and Spain, public support depends on that kind of assessment: see our guides for France, Italy and Spain.
For a quick starting point, our care-needs quiz suggests which type to explore first. It is not a medical assessment. When you are ready to compare homes, work through the visit checklist.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a residential home and a nursing home?
According to NHS guidance, residential homes provide personal care, while nursing homes also provide 24-hour care from qualified nurses. Some homes offer both.
Can someone move up a level of care within the same home?
Some homes offer several levels of care on one site, which makes it easier if needs change. Ask each home what happens if your relative's needs increase.
Is a care home the only option?
No. Day care, short stays and care at home can all postpone or replace a move. They are worth considering alongside a care home, particularly if needs are still low.
Sources and further reading
This guide is general information only, compiled from the public sources listed above as of the date shown. It is not legal, medical, tax, financial or care advice, and we cannot guarantee that it is complete, accurate or up to date. Rules, thresholds and prices change and differ by country and region, and some sources describe other countries' rules as examples. Check details with the authorities and care homes named, and take professional advice for your own situation before you act. If you spot an error, please email [email protected] and we will correct it.