Residential Care Homes
Tips
for Your First Visit
Everyone has their own requirements and views about
where they want to live.
Below are some suggestions of things to look out for
when visiting a Care Home, this is not a complete list and will vary greatly depending upon individual
circumstances:
First Impressions
- Do
you receive a friendly welcome?
- Is the atmosphere homely?
Residents
- Are the residents talking, involved in activities?
- Do
they seem cared for, clean and well dressed?
Location
- Is the Care Home easy to get to for visitors?
- Are
there amenities nearby?
Accommodation & Living Areas
- Are the bedrooms homely, clean and private?
- Are
staff nearby when needed/are there alarms around the home?
- Are there TV's, radios,
magazines for residents?
Facilities, Meals & Activities
- Are there games, activities or events for residents?
- Is
there a garden or private areas for residents to use?
- Is there a choice of meals,
choice of meal times or eating locations?
Healthcare &
Cultural Needs
- Are health professionals onsite or nearby if
help is needed?
- Do staff show respect for differences? E.g. diet, clothing, hygiene
and religious observances
Staff & Management
- Do the staff seem helpful and interested in the residents?
- Do
any staff have training required for your needs? E.g. dementia care, addiction therapy, mentoring skills,
counselling skills
- Will you be allocated a primary staff member for your care?
- Do
staff and management answer your questions freely and understand your concerns?
- Are
residents given care plans with regular reviews?
- What are your options if your circumstances
change in the future? E.g. if you medical condition deteriorates or you no longer need to be a resident
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