How to Say "nursing home" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “nursing home” is “asilo” — use 'asilo' when referring to a more traditional, perhaps older, institution for the elderly, often implying basic residence and care.
Use 'asilo' when referring to a more traditional, perhaps older, institution for the elderly, often implying basic residence and care.
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Use 'residencia' for a modern care facility that might offer more amenities or a broader range of services for older adults, often referred to as a 'retirement home'.
Learn more →ah-SEE-lohaˈsilo
Examples
Mi abuela se mudó a un asilo donde la cuidan bien.
My grandmother moved to a nursing home where they take good care of her.
El asilo para niños huérfanos necesita donaciones.
The shelter for orphaned children needs donations.
Masculine Noun Rule
Remember that 'asilo' is always masculine, so you must use 'el' or 'un' before it: 'el asilo'.
reh-see-DEN-see-ahresiˈðenθja
Examples
Mi abuela vive ahora en una residencia de ancianos muy agradable.
My grandmother now lives in a very nice retirement home.
La residencia universitaria está cerca del campus.
The university dormitory is close to campus.
Trabajo como enfermera en la residencia local.
I work as a nurse at the local care facility.
Asilo vs. Residencia
Learners often confuse 'asilo' and 'residencia' because both refer to places for the elderly. The key difference is that 'residencia' generally implies a more modern and comfortable living situation, akin to a retirement community, while 'asilo' can sometimes sound more basic or institutional.
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