Managing chronic conditions in a long-term care setting

It’s not unusual for older people to be diagnosed with multiple health issues (known as comorbidities). This can make ongoing treatment both complex and essential, which is why many residents and their families opt for long-term care.

However, the good news is that managing chronic conditions is part of daily life in a care home setting, and a proactive, personalised approach can help improve a resident’s quality of life while preventing further complications.

In this short blog post, we cover some of the most common chronic conditions in nursing homes, highlight secondary issues that often require attention, and explain how our staff work together to provide support and care when it’s needed the most.

Common chronic conditions in nursing homes

There are several medical conditions that we often see among nursing home residents, and many people present with a number of different conditions at the same time. These can include:

1. Stroke (also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA))

After a stroke, many residents live with long-term impairments like paralysis or speech difficulties. Rehabilitation, medication management, and fall prevention are crucial parts of care.

2. Heart failure

Managing heart failure involves careful fluid monitoring, daily weights, and timely administration of medicines. Diet and early symptom detection also play an important role.

3. Kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease affects how medications are processed and may require fluid and dietary restrictions. Regular monitoring is essential, especially when dialysis is involved.

4. Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s care must focus on mobility, medication timing, and safety. Support from physical and occupational therapy helps maintain function and reduce risks like choking, aspiration (when food or liquid enters your airway and potentially your lungs instead of your oesophagus) or falls.

5. Diabetes

Diabetes requires daily blood sugar monitoring, insulin administration, and foot care. Diet and awareness of hypoglycemia are key to avoiding complications.

6. COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

Residents with COPD benefit from inhaler support, oxygen therapy, and infection prevention. Pulmonary rehab and breathing exercises can help maintain respiratory function.

7. Arthritis (Rheumatoid and Osteoporosis-related)

Chronic joint pain affects mobility and independence. Pain management, gentle exercise, and fall prevention help maintain quality of life.

Secondary issues that need attention

Chronic illnesses can also have knock-on effects as they weaken the body’s immune system. As a result, there are several secondary issues that staff need to monitor, including:

1. Falls

Many chronic conditions increase fall risk. Regular assessments, strength training, and a safe environment can significantly reduce incidents.

2. Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

UTIs are common, especially among residents with mobility issues or those who require a catheter. Confusion may be the only symptom, so it’s vital that staff remain vigilant.

3. Cancer and palliative care

Unfortunately, some residents enter long-term care while faced with a terminal diagnosis alongside other chronic conditions. Compassionate palliative care focuses on comfort, symptom control, and emotional support for both residents and families.

How we support chronic care with a team-led approach

Managing chronic conditions in a long-term care setting is never one person’s job. It takes a team.

Nurses keep a close eye on residents’ day-to-day health and help manage medications.
Doctors guide treatment decisions and respond when something changes.
Therapists work to keep people as mobile and independent as possible.
Dietitians make sure meals support each resident’s health needs.
Pharmacists help manage complex medication plans and avoid harmful interactions.

What makes this work here at Fulford is clear lines of communication. Regular team check-ins ensure everyone’s on the same page and that care plans are adjusted as residents’ needs evolve.

Equally as important is the involvement of families and loved ones in the process. They know the residents best and can help make sure their care aligns with what matters most to them.

Learn more about how Fulford handles chronic conditions

Chronic condition management in long-term care is about more than treating illness. It’s about preserving dignity, comfort, and independence. With the right tools, teamwork, and attention, care teams like ours can make a lasting difference in residents’ lives.

Want to learn more about how Fulford supports residents living with chronic conditions? Call us on 01904 654 269 to chat with one of our friendly staff members.