Choosing a home
Choosing a care home is a significant decision, but with careful planning, thorough research and expert guidance, you can find a place that provides comfort, security, and quality care for yourself or your loved one.
Choosing the right type of care
First and foremost, it’s crucial to ensure that each of the homes you’re considering offer the right type of care. There are many different types of care as follows:
Residential Care
Residential care homes provide care, community and support for people who require support with day-to-day life.
Dementia Care
Dementia care is specialist care and support for those who are living with dementia.
Nursing Care
Nursing care homes provide 24 hour nursing care for those who require specialist medical support.
Respite Care
Respite Care is a short stay, aimed at providing carers with an opportunity to take a break from looking after somebody at home. It can also help those who are recovering from an illness in hospital and need a period of enhanced support before returning to their own home. For those wishing to try a period of care before making a decision, then this can be a good option.
Day Care
Day care centres offer care during the day for those who are still living in their own home or with family, perhaps with the support of either a professional carer or family and friends.
Quality of Care
It is important to check that any home you are considering has a solid track record of providing quality care. Every home is assessed on a regular basis by the Care Quality Commission and each home has a report available online that will tell you about the standards of care in the home.
Reputation
Local reputation is another aid in the selection process. You may be aware of a number of homes in your local area and you may already have heard a little about them. You can also find out how what other people think by looking at online reviews or speaking to past relatives.
Location
We have found that location is a key factor for many of our families and residents when deciding on a home. Visiting your loved one on a regular basis can be inconvenient if their home is hard to get to. Many of our families enjoy getting involved with our homes, including supporting events and activities such as garden parties and dinner clubs, so being close may be important.
Lifestyle
Check the activities and services that are available. There should be a good range on offer and something to suit everybody’s taste.
Food and Nutrition
Mealtimes are really important; not just for health, but also for wellbeing. Check that there are a range of food options available, that any dietary requirements can be met, and that mealtimes are an enjoyable experience for all.
Seeing it for yourself
Ultimately, visiting a prospective home will give you the best insight into whether it’s right for you and your family. There’s an emotional aspect to the choice that is hard to define but particularly important. Visiting the home, taking a tour, chatting to the staff etc. is a great way to get a feel for that all important “atmosphere”. You’ll know it when you feel it and it’s something we work very hard on in our own homes because we know how important it is.
Contact Us
Whether you are looking for a little extra support, or considering long term care for your loved one, our customer advisors are here to help you with your search and answer any questions you may have. Give us a call on 01707 393293.
Alternatively, you are welcome to email us to discuss your situation.
