Hampshire care homes – there are many to choose from but choosing the right Home can be difficult. Every home is different and will have its own unique characteristics that appeal to you. However there are a number of basic features which should be made available or will be important to most individuals.
When considering the right home for you or loved ones, asking these key questions will help you choose the right home:
- Is the atmosphere friendly and homely?
- How well maintained are the buildings and grounds?
- Are residents treated with respect as well as in a friendly manner?
- Do the staff seem caring and attentative towards residents?
- Is there a large sensory garden that residents can use and does it feature pathways?
- Can friends or family visit without difficulty?
- Does the home involve residents and families in their care?
- Are you able to entertain visitors?
- What care types does the home provide?
- Does the home cater for your cultural, spiritual and dietary needs?
- Are regular social events and activities organised?
- Does the home have it’s own dedicated activities staff?
- Can all areas be easily accessible for residents?
- What GP services are available?
- Which other health services are provided if required?
- What is the staff to resident ratio?
- Is there sufficient autonomy or flexibility for resident’s routine?
- Can you pursue existing hobbies or begin new ones?
- Is there a choice of lounges or recreational areas?
- Has the home been designed with dementia care in mind?
- How does the home ensure that residents with dementia are kept safe?
- What training have staff received in caring for people with dementia?
- Do the bedrooms have their own en-suite ‘wet rooms’ or have nearby access to a bathroom?
- Have bathrooms and en-suites been designed with the needs of residents with dementia and or visual and physical impairment in mind?
- Do bedrooms have their own television, telephone and Internet access?
- Is all food prepared fresh and what choice is available?
- Are you free to eat something when you wish or opt to eat something that isn’t on the menu?
- Do you cater for special dietary needs?
- Do the menus seem to be balanced and nutritious?
- What facilities are provided at the care home? (E.g. hairdressing, chiropody etc.)
- Does the Home feature it’s own hair salon?
- Are you able to meet with the care team or suggest ways of improving the care home?
- Can residents stay for a trial period?
- Do you have the latest inspection / CQC report available?
In addition to asking the appropriate questions, on your visit to the care home try to engage with residents and staff. You will benefit from seeing firsthand how they feel about the home, whether they happy being there and content with their surroundings.
These first impressions and general ambience are all vital in your assessment together with a checklist of relevant questions.