How to choose a care home

Choosing a care home can be a challenging exercise for everyone involved.

Some have time to choose a home and plan the move whilst others find they are in urgent need of a care home almost overnight and it is often difficult to source the most appropriate home.

For those finding a care home it may be the first time they have experienced the world of care and how locations, costs and standards can vary significantly between homes.

The best way to find out what homes are like is to visit as many as you can to get a feel for how they are run.

Often homes recommend trial stays and this is beneficial particularly if your case is not urgent as it gives you time to try a few to see which one is most suitable.

Here are a few things to consider when selecting a home which should make the process easier:

Location

Is the home well located? Is it close to family and friends to make visiting easier?

The home itself

Is it well maintained on the outside and does it give a good first impression? How warm and friendly are the reception staff and is it well kept internally?

Is it well financed? There have been horror stories of homes going bankrupt in the past and residents having to find alternative accommodation.

Having a comprehensive chat with the General Manager and a tour around should give you peace of mind as to how well run it is.

Staff

How well qualified are the staff? How much training do they receive?

Will the individual have a key worker allocated to them when they move in to ensure their care needs will be met on an ongoing basis?

Facilities

What facilities are on offer? Are there special needs to be taken into consideration?

It is important to have many living areas for the residents to relax and socialise. Is the dining room pleasant and are there a variety of menu choices ensuring that individuals can benefit from a balanced diet on a daily basis?

Room

Is the bedroom large enough to live in comfortably? Does each room have en suite facilities?

Is it possible to have a telephone and television installed? Is there a call system for staff?

Care

If you need nursing care check that the home provides it. If specialist care is likely to be needed (either now or in the future) how well equipped are the home for this and are staff well trained to work in the specialist area?

Activities

Is there a variety of activities on offer to suit different needs and tastes and are resident’s interests and hobbies considered? Are trips organised on a regular basis?

Policy and procedures

Assess the policy and procedures and what the philosophy of care is. Ask to see the latest inspection report from the Care Quality Commission.

Legalities

Is there an up to date will in place?

Has a Lasting Power of Attorney been drawn up and is it registered with the Office of Public Guardian? This can only be established if the individual has mental capacity at the time of doing it. If this is not done an individual will need to apply for deputyship and this is a time consuming and expensive process.

Finances

Do your finances need to be restructured to ensure the money does not run out? Find out what NHS and State benefits are available and apply for them at the earliest opportunity.

It is important to seek independent financial advice from a well qualified individual who holds the specialist Long Term Care qualification and one who has a genuine and caring approach to your situation.