Choosing a care home is one of the most important decisions families can make for their loved ones. Knowing how to choose a care home ensures that your loved one receives the support and care they need in an environment where they feel safe and comfortable. This step-by-step guide will help you navigate the process with confidence.
The first step in choosing a care home is understanding your loved one’s personal needs. Do they need help with daily activities such as bathing and dressing, or do they require more intensive medical support? Identifying their specific care requirements will help you determine the type of care home that best suits their needs, whether it be residential, nursing, or dementia care.
“For those seeking dementia care, The Oaks in Colchester specialises in providing expert care for individuals living with dementia.”
Start by researching care homes in your area that meet your loved one’s needs. Check websites, read reviews, and gather recommendations from friends or health professionals. You’ll want to create a shortlist of care homes to visit.
“Aurem Care operates homes all over the UK, from Aaron House in Penicuik, Scotland down to South Haven Lodge in Southampton. All of our homes take pride in offering a welcoming environment and exceptional care.”
Once you have a shortlist, arrange visits to each care home. This is your chance to assess the atmosphere, cleanliness, and interactions between staff and residents. Pay attention to the living arrangements and social spaces, and consider whether your loved one will feel comfortable there.
Pro Tip:
“Don’t be afraid to ask questions. At Aurem Care, we encourage families to ask about our team qualifications, daily routines, and how we create personalised care plans.”
It’s essential to understand the costs involved and whether funding options are available. Ask for a breakdown of fees and check if your loved one may be eligible for local authority funding or NHS Continuing Healthcare.
“For more information on funding and care home fees, why not view or download our Funding Care Guide.”
To get a full understanding of a care home’s safety, effectiveness, and overall quality of care, it’s important to use a variety of online channels and local knowledge. While Care Quality Commission (CQC) reports provide official insights into a home’s compliance and standards, they’re just one piece of the puzzle.
Consider checking independent review sites like carehome.co.uk to read experiences from residents and their families. Google reviews can also offer up-to-date feedback. Don’t underestimate the value of a home’s local reputation—speak with healthcare professionals, friends, or community members who may have direct experience with the care home.
By gathering insights from multiple sources, you’ll have a more balanced view of the care home’s environment, the staff’s dedication, and the quality of services they provide.
If possible, involve your loved one in the decision-making process. Their comfort and happiness are key, so ensuring they feel a part of the choice can make the transition easier.
Choosing a care home may seem overwhelming, but by following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure that your loved one receives the care and support they deserve. At Aurem Care, we’re here to help every step of the way, with care homes across the UK designed to provide comfort, dignity, and quality of life.
Why not continue your care journey by checking out another informative Aurem Care blog on ‘Understanding the Different Types of Care Homes: What’s Right for Your Loved One?’ here.
Aurem Care homes are all about people caring about people, we believe our care homes should be happy homes for loved ones.
Where older adults can forge worthwhile, meaningful relationships with our team and make new friends.
