If you have discovered that one of your family members requires care that can only be found in a residential home, your next step is selecting the right place. Just as no two people are identical, no two care homes will necessarily be alike. This is why it is so important that you take your time to weigh up all your options and find a place that perfectly suits your family member’s needs. Here are the steps you’ll need to take to locate the ideal care home for your family member.
Talk to Your Relative
The first step should be discussing care homes with the family member in question. This conversation can be difficult and emotional since the suggestion of losing independence can cause severe and understandable upset. Approach the subject with sensitivity and patience. It might take more than one attempt to help your family member see that a care home is the best decision for their own wellbeing. The process is much simpler if they can see the move as being compassionate rather than threatening.
Choose an Area to Research
There is no point looking for a care home in a location that doesn’t make sense. Think about the places your relative would feel most comfortable in and which areas would be easiest for friends and family to visit. For example, if your family member is familiar with the area, Signature care home at Highgate could be one of the most sensible options. Consider the distance other people would have to travel to meet up with your relative, especially anyone who is currently a significant person in their life. Once you know where to look, this will narrow down your options.
Create a List of Priorities
With the help of the family member in question, write a list of what you’re looking for in a care home. Does it need to have excellent outdoor space for gardening? Does it need to be close to the seaside? Does it need to have the best medical care? Knowing what you want from the care home will help you be more discerning during the research stage.
Visit Different Care Homes
Make time to pay your shortlist of care homes a visit. Bring your family member and consider the first impression you both get. Sometimes a decision is made based on a feeling rather than something you can put your finger on, but that doesn’t make it any less justified.
Talk to the Staff
During your visits to these care homes, ask the staff plenty of questions about the kind of care and service your family member can expect from their establishment. You may find it helpful to come prepared with a list of questions to ensure that you don’t forget while being shown around.
Choosing the right care home is a process that shouldn’t be rushed. Your family member may need the help on offer at a care home, but that doesn’t mean any care home will suffice. Talk to your relative about their options, find the right location, write out your essential criteria, make visits, and talk to care home staff. These steps will lead you toward finding the ideal care home for your family member.
