Over one million older people are cared for in nursing and residential homes. The last decade has witnessed a significant change in the level and quality of care provided in these settings. The provision of a higher standard of care combined with an increase in the number of elderly people requiring support has contributed to the development in the role of care assistants. This text has been specifically written for care assistants studying for NVQ Level II, and should provide a sound foundation for higher levels. It contains accessible and practical information to enable carers to face and meet the challenges of caring for older people.