Choosing the right care home for you or your loved one can feel like a massive decision. With so much to consider, it can feel overwhelming to know where your family member will receive the best level of care. We’ve pulled together a checklist of questions to bear in mind throughout the decision-making process to cover all grounds.
Visit The Care Home In Person
Your first impression when visiting a care home option is important, giving you a much better feel of the place and allowing you to visualise whether you can see your relative happily living in there. Choosing the right care home in Bexley is dependent on many factors, so it’s best to not leave any stone unturned.
- Is the care home clean and well decorated?
- Is the atmosphere homely and comfortable?
- Are personal belongings and decorations encouraged?
- Is there a garden which is accessible to residents?
Consider Their Daily Activities
As well as the home itself, getting an idea on the day to day running of the care home will help judge whether your relative will feel fulfilled. Everybody’s hobbies and preferences are different, so look for a care home with activities to suit your relative that will keep them entertained daily.
- Do the residents interact much with each other?
- Are there any daily activities for residents to get stuck into?
- Is independence encouraged and are residents walking about freely?
- Is there a communal lounge with a TV or radio?
- Are dietary requirements and preferences catered to?
Consider How They Can Cater To Your Loved One’s Personal Needs
Personal needs are the most important criteria to meet. The needs of every care home resident will differ from person to person but ensuring your relative will get a substantial level of care is vital. For people with disabilities or more severe care needs, there are specialised homes with staff who are medically trained to deal with these conditions. Care homes will be able to assess your individual needs to ensure your family member will be suited to their home.
- Are the rooms and facilities accessible for those with mobility issues?
- Is personal care provided for those needing day to day support?
- Are the staff trained to deal with your relatives individual care needs?
It’s not just the resident to consider, family members should also be satisfied with the care home chosen. Often family members will have initial unease during the transition to a care home for their loved one, it is perfectly normal to worry over the new routine.
- Is the care home close enough for family and friends to visit?
- Will you feel satisfied that your relative is receiving adequate care?
- Are visitors able to take their family member out for the day?
- Are families kept up to date with any illnesses or accidents?
There are some great care homes to choose from in and around Bexley, all suited to different needs and preferences. When sorting through your options, keep our list of key questions in mind to ensure you’re picking a great option for your loved one. There is always help available if you need assistance during the process so do not hesitate to reach out.
