Choosing the right care home

Determine the level of care needed: Different care homes provide different levels of care. Some specialise in providing care for those with dementia, while others may cater to those with physical disabilities. It’s important to determine the level of care needed before you start your search, so you can find a care home that can meet your specific needs.

Location: Location is an important factor to consider when choosing a care home. It’s important to choose a location that is easily accessible to family and friends who may want to visit. Also, consider the local amenities such as shops, cafes and restaurants that may be important to the person being cared for.
Visit the care home: Before making a decision, it’s important to visit the care home in person. This will give you an opportunity to see the facilities, meet the staff, and get a sense of the atmosphere. You should ask about the daily routines, activities, and the level of care provided.

The teams: The care home teams not only provide support to you but are responsible for the day-to-day running of the home.  It’s important to ensure that you feel comfortable with them and it goes without saying that they should be well-trained, experienced, and above all caring. Ask about the team-to-people ratio as well as their qualifications.

Cost: The cost of care can vary widely depending on the care home and the level of care needed. It’s important to find a care home that provides the necessary care at a price you can afford. You should ask for a detailed breakdown of the costs and find out if there are any additional costs such as activities or transport.

Choosing a care home can be a difficult decision, but taking the time to consider your options carefully can help ensure that you find the best care home for your needs. By considering the level of care needed, location, reputation, teams and cost, you can make an informed decision that will provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

Residential homes and nursing homes are care homes for short and longer-term care and support, but they differ in the level of care and services they provide. Here are some of the key differences between residential homes and nursing homes:

Level of care: Residential homes provide support for daily living activities, such as help with bathing, dressing, and eating. They do not typically offer medical care or specialised support for people with complex medical needs. Nursing homes, on the other hand, provide more extensive medical care, including assistance with medication management, wound care, and physical therapy.

Staffing: Residential homes typically have a lower staff-to-resident ratio than nursing homes. They may have personal care assistants or care workers who help with day-to-day activities. Nursing homes, on the other hand, have a higher staff-to-resident ratio, including registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and certified nursing assistants who provide more complex medical care.

Cost: Residential homes are generally less expensive than nursing homes because they provide fewer medical services. However, the cost can vary depending on the level of care and services provided. Nursing homes are more expensive due to the higher level of medical care and staffing required.

Eligibility: Residential homes are suitable for older adults who need assistance with daily living activities but do not require specialised nurse-led care. Nursing homes are suitable for older adults who require more extensive medical care and support due to complex medical needs, such as dementia or chronic illnesses.

Overall, the choice between a residential home and nursing home will depend on the individual’s care needs, medical conditions, and personal preferences. It’s important to consider the level of care and services provided when making this decision, as well as the cost and eligibility criteria for each option.

We appreciate that settling in to a new care home can be an upheaval, which is why we are here to make the change as smooth as possible.

Before the move, a team member will visit your current home to discuss individual needs and formulate a personal plan of care and support.

During the first few days we are on hand to show you where they need to go and have a team who can always lend a hand if there are some favourite pieces of furniture which need to be brought in or pictures to put up.

We welcome family and friends at any time, with flexible visiting hours and the chance to enjoy a meal together. We also encourage you to take day trips and holidays with families and friends.