Collaborative post
Choosing a care home for a loved one can seem like an intimidating task. With so many options to choose from, there is a lot to consider. To make it easier, we have compiled a simple guide below of things to look for when choosing a care home for your loved one.
Equipment
You should look at the equipment available in communal areas, bathrooms, and rooms. If your loved one struggles with getting in the shower, is there an accessible shower chair? Does each room have a toilet? If your loved one is struggling with going to the bathroom, commode chairs should be provided.
If you want to find out more about the type of equipment that should be available in a care home and what commode chairs are used for, you can find out more information on NHC Group Ltd. It is important to do your research when it comes to equipment, so you can help your loved one to remain comfortable and dignified.
Amenities and Facilities
Not all care homes are made equal and depending on what is important to your loved one, some care homes will appeal more to them than others. If they like to spend a lot of time in their garden at home and thrive outdoors, it is best to find a care home with a green outdoor area and communal spaces.
If your relative likes to keep their body or mind active, there are care homes that pride themselves on hosting daily activities. These could include games, movie nights, and exercise classes. Ask each care home for a weekly or monthly planner of activities to give you an idea of what they offer.
Type of Care Home
When narrowing down your search of care homes, it is good to know what the different types of care homes are and who they are for. For example, residential care is a safe environment where your loved one can maintain their independence, whilst knowing there are professional carers and nurses nearby. In this setting, your loved one will have their own space and will get help with daily aspects of living, such as hygiene, cooking, and toileting.
Other types of care homes include nursing, palliative, and dementia care. If your loved one has dementia, it may be best to choose a home suited for them. Here, the staff will be trained specifically with dementia patients and will know how to take the best care of your loved one. This is something you may want to consider in the future if your relative or parent has just been given their diagnosis. Do your research and learn about dementia to understand what’s happening and the support your loved one will need.
Location
Another important aspect to consider is location. You want a care home that is close enough for you and other family members to visit regularly. This can also help to narrow down your search significantly. In terms of location, you should also ask your loved one what they would prefer.
If they prefer to be living out in the countryside, it may be best to find a care home in a more rural location. If they love the hustle and bustle of city life, there are plenty of cares homes in and around city centres.
Staff
Although the facilities and equipment are an important aspect of a care home, the staff are what truly make it. These are the people that will be coming into contact and caring for your loved one day and night. When going to view care homes, watch how staff interact with other residents.
Be sure to ask any questions that are on your mind, such as what training they’ve had or how they might deal with any issues your loved one has. It is also worth asking management what the turnover of staff is like, as this can speak volumes for how your loved one will be treated. If a care home is struggling to keep staff, it may not be a place you want your loved one to live.
Affordability
Whilst you would pay anything you can to ensure your loved one has a comfortable and happy life, we all have a budget. It is important to determine what your budget is before looking at care homes, as this can help to narrow down your search. You should speak to your loved one about their budget and if they have any money saved to pay for their own care.
Learn about self-funding residential care and what other options you have. Doing your research can help you to understand the systems in place in the UK and how you can request funding through your local council and the NHS.
When looking at care homes, consider which type of care home is best, the location, your budget, and the facilities and equipment available. When it comes to care, only the best is good enough for our parents or elderly relatives so make sure you do not rush this process.