Considerations to make when choosing a Care Home
If you are thinking of moving to a care home, choosing somewhere that is just right for you is not always simple.
This guide is designed to help make your choice that much easier.
By having clear and full information, you’ll be sure that when you move, you’ll have exactly what you’re looking for: a positive and rewarding way of life, the support and help that you want and a place that you are always delighted to call home.
Are there other options that I should consider?
Depending on your care and support needs there may be other options worthy of consideration:-
Assisted living – houses or apartments, often within retirement development complexes which are purpose built to meet older peoples needs. This type of accommodation is designed for those who are able to live independently but who may require some support with personal care and other aspects of daily living such as dressing, bathing, cooking, cleaning etc. As well as accommodation and support some complexes may offer additional communal and social facilities and services designed to enhance residents quality of life.
Home care – Personal care and other support services provided to you in your existing home through a community based care agency
Retirement Villages – these vary dependent upon supplier, but Richmond Villages (www.richmond-villages.com ) is one of the only operators whose Villages provide a complete range of living options from independent living in large two bedroom apartments, assisted living apartments and a care home providing 24 hour nursing and dementia care. These villages can offer far better facilities than a typical care home, and can include restaurants, activity room, library and IT suite and Wellness Spa of pool, gym, treatment rooms and hair salon.
Providers offer differing types of accommodation support services and care, therefore it’s essential that you ask exactly what is included so that you can make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences. You should also consider how services are delivered to you, how flexible these are in terms of receiving the support you require when you need it and consistency in terms of the staff providing the services.
You should also consider what happens should your needs change. Can the provider meet your changing circumstances or will you need to consider a further move?
HOW MANY CARE HOMES SHOULD I VISIT?
Ideally you should visit as many as possible so that you can make comparisons and find the right one for you.
WHO SHOULD I SPEAK TO THERE?
When visiting a care home, try to ensure that you meet either the manager or a senior member of staff. If possible, you should also try and meet as many other members of staff as you can as well as chat to residents.
WHAT DO I NEED TO LOOK FOR WHEN VISITING A HOME?
It is sometimes difficult to remember all the things you want to ask when visiting a care home. You should ask about areas that you feel are most vital for your wellbeing. Areas to consider are as follows:
The location
First impressions
The atmosphere
The accommodation
The facilities
The care
Specialist equipment
Activities
The staff
Policies and procedures
Dining services
DO I ALWAYS NEED TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT BEFORE VISITING A CARE HOME?
It shouldn’t be necessary to make an appointment, and by just turning up to view could give you a more realistic idea of the home. However, you may not be able to talk or meet with a senior member of staff meaning not all of your questions will be answered.
WHERE CAN I FIND LOCAL CARE HOMES?
Internet search engines will show all your local care homes and will provide further information. It is also worth speaking to your local GP, Social Workers and local PCT’s.
To receive a free booklet on ‘Choosing your ideal Care Home’ please email your name, address and email address to [email protected] with the subject ‘Choosing your ideal care home’
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