Guide to Selecting a Care Home
Selecting a home for yourself or a loved one is a very personal decision and to complicate matters, many people don't know exactly how to evaluate whether a home will meet their specific need. To assist you with your decision we have prepared this brief guide for your use while you visit various homes. As you tour the home, consider the following points.
The Residence...
Is it attractive, clean and easy to get around? Is there a passenger lift? Are the Residents' rooms carpeted and thoughtfully furnished? Have allowances been made for a personal telephone line and TV outlet? Does the room have a generous sized window? Is there a garden? Is it easy to get around? Is there an absence of odour throughout the home? Does the home have a nice ambience?
The Care...
Are the Residents' appropriately dressed? Are they well groomed? Is their hair styled and clothing clean? Are the staff available 24 hours a day? Do Residents seem content? How often does the home have Residents' meetings? How are Residents' opinions and concerns voiced? Are there Relative advocate meetings? Does the management have an open attitude to suggestions? Are there opportunities to feedback information about the care and service provided? Did you have an opportunity to meet and talk to some of the Residents?
The Staff...
Do the staff smile and greet you during your visit? Are the staff patient and understanding with Residents' requests? Do you feel that staff have a genuine concern for Residents' well being? Are staff members neat, clean and professionally dressed? Do they appear organised? What kind of training is available for staff? How are staff encouraged to attend training?
Social & Recreational Services...
What variety of social activities are available? Do Residents have the freedom to choose whether or not they would like to participate? Are there any outings? Are visiting hours open or limited? Is there a mini bus for outings?
Dietary Services...
Is there a selective menu? Are between meal snacks offered? Does the dining room offer napkins, china and adequate cutlery? Do meals appear appetising, nutritious and plentiful? Do Residents evaluate their meals? Do staff eat the same food?
Financial...
Do you have answers to all your financial questions?
3 Star Rating...
Does the home have a three star excellent rating? Did the home show you its Annual Inspection Report? (If not, you can download if from the Care Quality Commission website www.cqc.org.uk or call 03000 616161).
"Whatever your needs are, let us help you decide if we can meet them, because we care to make a difference."