As we get older, it’s not uncommon to find living at home more of a challenge, especially if we live alone. The things that we used to take for granted can seem beyond us and overly tiring and living independently can become difficult. So, living independently, particularly if you are in declining health or need specialised care, can be difficult. One obvious solution to this is to consider moving to a residential care home. But do you know what to expect from a residential care home?
Care homes are designed to offer a nurturing and supportive environment that caters to the unique needs of older individuals requiring assisted living. They provide a safe, comfortable and compassionate setting where residents can maintain their dignity and enjoy their later lives. Being treated as individuals, whilst also receiving any care they need. In this blog, we will explore the key aspects you can expect from a residential care home and how it can enrich the lives of residents.
A comfortable living space, surrounded by familiar personal effects, is vital if residents are to feel at home in a care home. Residential care homes maintain a clean and well-maintained environment. With housekeeping services to ensure residents live in a hygienic and pleasant atmosphere. Some residents may be fully capable of looking after their own personal care needs (e.g. washing and dressing, etc.), whilst others will need a greater level of assistance. The care home will tailor their support, based on those needs (see Personalised Care Plans, below)
Residential care homes employ a team of skilled professionals, including nurses, caregivers, therapists, and activity coordinators. All provide attentive and compassionate care. Staff members are fully trained to support residents with their daily activities, mobility and any medical requirements they may have. The emphasis is on treating each resident as an individual, with unique needs and desires, whilst fostering a warm and inclusive environment. They can form meaningful connections with other residents, as well as with staff members, promoting emotional well-being.
One of the fundamental aspects of a residential care home is the individualised care plans offered to each resident. When you first arrive at a care home, trained professionals conduct thorough assessments to understand your medical history, personal preferences, and specific needs. These assessments are used to develop Personalised Care Plans (PCPs) that include daily activities tailored to the resident’s capabilities and interests, as well as dietary needs, and any medical assistance and medication management that may be required.
Bearing in mind that one of the key reasons for moving to a care home is that you don’t feel able to cope on your own, safety is of paramount importance in residential care homes. The facilities are equipped with safety features. These include handrails; call buttons so that there is someone on hand in case of an emergency; and wheelchair-accessible areas to prevent accidents and ensure easy movement for residents with mobility challenges. Trained care assistants and nursing staff are available round the clock to assist residents, promoting a sense of security and reassurance.
Good nutrition is essential for everyone’s overall health and wellbeing, but more so for older people. Aurem care homes have skilled chefs and dietitians who prepare well-balanced and delicious meals tailored to meet each resident’s dietary requirements and preferences. Meals are often available in your own room/suite, but most are served in communal dining areas, providing an opportunity for residents to socialise whilst enjoying their food.
Residential care homes recognise the significance of maintaining an active, social and engaging lifestyle. They typically offer a diverse range of social and recreational activities. All of which are designed to keep residents mentally stimulated, socially connected and physically active. From art classes and book clubs to gentle exercises and group outings, these activities foster a sense of community and prevent feelings of isolation or loneliness. If a resident has a particular hobby or pastime that they wish to continue, then this will be highlighted in their PCP and every effort made to incorporate it.
Choosing a residential care home for yourself or a loved one is always going to be a significant decision and knowing what to expect can help ease any concerns. Residential care homes offer a nurturing and supportive environment with personalised care plans to ensure that each resident is treated as the individual that they undoubtedly are. Add to this compassionate staff, safety measures, engaging activities, nutritious meals, and well-maintained facilities and a residential care home should really feel like a home-from-home.
By providing a warm and inclusive atmosphere, residential care homes strive to enhance the quality of life for their residents and promote their overall well-being. So, if you or your loved one needs extra support and care, a residential care home can be a wonderful option. Embracing comfort, compassion and a sense of community, in the golden years of their life, can truly provide the resident with their best life to live.
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.
