10 steps to finding the perfect care home
Help and advice in choosing a home.
Here are 10 key areas to consider before, during and after your visit.
1. The area
How does the surrounding area feel? Is the home easy to reach and is it conveniently located for friends and family? What are the local public transport links like and which shops are available in the area? Lastly, what are the arrangements for on-site parking?
2. The appearance
What does the home look like the first time you visit? Are the gardens well kept? Are the staff you meet welcoming and do the entrance and surrounding rooms appear clean, warm and well maintained?
3. The ambience
What does the home feel like? Is it warm and pleasant and are the staff friendly and approachable? How do the other residents appear? Do they seem happy and are they allowed to come and go as they please? Are you made to feel welcome? And are you offered refreshments and encouraged to stay? How easy is it to talk to other residents? Don't forget to make a note of any restrictions on visiting times and house rules regarding pets too.
4. Your room
Does the home offer the right rooms? Are they single with ensuite facilities, or do you have to share? Are the rooms spacious, light and clean? How new are the fixtures and are there any restrictions on bringing your own furniture and furnishings? Is there a nurse call button in the rooms? Are a TV and telephone provided and, if not, can you bring your own? And most importantly, can you see yourself spending time there?
5. The facilities and equipment
Is the home you're visiting designed for older people? Is there a lift? Are the corridors wide enough for wheelchairs and are there handrails on the stairs? Does the home have a relaxing communal area and a pleasant outlook? Is there easy access to the garden and surrounding area? How many bathrooms are there and is there a provision for specialist baths. A good home should also provide a wide selection of equipment including electrically operated beds, pressure relieving mattresses and cushions, hoists and walking aids.
6. The standards of care
Does the home provide the level of care you are looking for and can it provide the personal service you need? Can you see the home's CQC inspection report? How many stars has it received? And has the home won any awards or recognition for the care it provides? Can the home take care of your long-term care needs? Have you the opportunity to read the home's Statement of Purpose? Are your loved ones encouraged to have a say on the care process? Are care plans set in stone or open to continual assessment and review?
7. The staff
Are the people you meet friendly and helpful? Do they listen to your concerns and are they interested and passionate about the work they do? Did the manager inspire you? Do the staff present a professional image? And do you feel confident that they can offer you the level of service and attention you are looking for? What qualifications do the staff have and is there any provision for staff training? Finally, how many people are on duty at any one moment and how many people does the home employ all together?
8. Mealtimes
If you arrive at lunchtime, what does the food being served look like? How are the tables laid out? Are condiments available? Is there a menu and how often does it change? Are there fixed times and places for dining or can residents choose their own? Are meals prepared on site and if yes, does the chef use fresh or processed ingredients? Can the home cater for special diets and are guests and relatives encouraged to dine with you?
9. The lifestyle
Is there a dedicated programme of events, entertainment, activities and outings? How often is this changed? Are residents encouraged to follow their own interests and hobbies and are there group activities outside the home? How often do external entertainers visit the home? Is there room to exercise? Are birthdays celebrated? And how are personal religious beliefs supported and respected?
10. Values
Does the home have a mission statement and clear values? How often are quality audits carried out and is there a system in place for feedback from residents and relatives? Are residents encouraged to express their views on services and care, and how open are staff to new ideas and suggestions? Does the home have a written contract that you can look at? And are there any hidden fees or administration costs above and beyond the ones shown?
Above all, the best advice when looking around a new home is to take your time and ensure your choice is the right choice for you and your family.