Once
you have drawn up a shortlist of care homes that you think might meet
your specific needs, then it is time to arrange some visits. It is
essential that you visit any care home you are considering and meet the
staff and residents. You may want a close family member to accompany you
on these visits.
This process of choosing a care home should not
be rushed. If possible you should plan more than one visit to each care
home you are considering to see what they are like at different times
of day. Visiting at meal times will help you not only see what the
quality of food is, but will also let you assess how the residents and staff
interact. And are there enough staff to look after the residents
properly?
Crucially you should also make sure that the care
home’s medical facilities genuinely meet your health needs. Are there
enough nurses? Does the care home have the right medical equipment? You
should not be afraid to ask searching questions, perhaps referring to a
checklist like this:
• Does the care home have the right medical facilities to suit my health needs?
• Is the care home near to my location, or near a close relative?
• Are there registered nurses present?
• Are there enough staff to care for the number of residents?
• Do the staff appear cheerful and efficient?
• Do the residents appear well looked after and cheerful?
• Are there social events you can join in?
• Do the residents mingle, or keep to themselves?