10 Questions to Ask When Visiting a Care Home | A Quick Checklist

Take a look at our quick checklist of 10 questions you should be asking when visiting a care home.

Choosing the right care home for your loved one is a significant decision, and it’s important to gather as much information as possible before making your choice. When visiting a care home, here are ten key questions to ask that will help you better understand the environment, the quality of care, and how well it aligns with your loved one’s needs.

What is the staff-to-resident ratio?

The number of staff available to care for residents is important. A higher staff-to-resident ratio typically means more personalised attention and quicker responses to any needs or emergencies. Ask how many carers are on duty at different times of the day and night.
How is care provided on nights and weekends?

Care homes should offer 24-hour support, but it’s essential to understand the level of care provided during less staffed times such as nights and weekends. Ask about overnight staffing and how they ensure residents’ needs are met during these times.
What types of activities and social programmes are available?

Keeping residents engaged and active is a key component of quality care. Ask about the types of activities offered, how often they are held, and whether they are tailored to different levels of mobility and cognitive function. Find out if residents can choose activities that suit their interests.
How are individual care plans developed, and how often are they reviewed?

Every resident has unique needs, so it’s important to ask how the care home creates and updates personalised care plans. Regular reviews ensure that care adapts to any changes in health or preferences, so ask how often these assessments are done and how family members are involved.
Can residents personalise their rooms, and what are the room options?

Feeling at home is essential for a resident’s wellbeing. Ask whether residents are allowed to bring their own furniture or personal items to personalise their rooms. It’s also helpful to know if there are options for private rooms, en-suite facilities, or shared spaces. Some homes even cater for the resident to bring their pets.
What safety measures are in place for residents, especially those with dementia?

Safety is a top concern, especially for residents with dementia or other cognitive impairments. Ask about security measures such as alarms, locked areas, and how they prevent falls or wandering. Understanding how the home balances safety with residents’ freedom is important.
How do you handle medical emergencies and regular health monitoring?

Knowing the care home’s approach to medical emergencies can provide peace of mind. Ask about how they handle emergency situations, what protocols are in place, and how they monitor residents’ health on a daily basis. Also, check if healthcare professionals, like GPs or nurses, visit regularly.
What are the visiting hours, and how are families kept informed about residents’ wellbeing?

Family involvement is key to a resident’s quality of life. Ask about visiting policies, how flexible they are, and whether families can visit outside of regular hours. Also, inquire about how they communicate updates on your loved one’s health and wellbeing, whether through meetings, calls, or emails.
What’s included in the monthly cost, and what additional fees should we be aware of?

Care home fees can vary greatly, so it’s important to get a clear understanding of what’s included in the basic monthly cost. Ask if there are any additional charges for services like laundry, outings, specialised care, or medical supplies, so you can budget accordingly.
Can you accommodate special dietary needs or preferences?

If your loved one has specific dietary requirements, whether for health, religious, or personal reasons, ensure the care home can meet these needs. Ask about the meal options and whether residents have any input into the menu or mealtime preferences.
(Bonus Question) How do you support residents in maintaining their independence and dignity?

One of the most important aspects of care is helping residents maintain their dignity and independence. Ask how the care home encourages self-care, mobility, and decision-making, while providing the support needed for daily activities. This can make a big difference to a resident’s quality of life.

Understanding what to look for when choosing a care home is vital, as it’s often an emotional and significant decision. This guide empowers families to make informed choices by highlighting important aspects like staff qualifications, security measures, and how residents are supported in maintaining a fulfilling lifestyle. It also encourages visitors to observe the atmosphere and interactions within the home, ensuring that the environment feels welcoming and supportive.

By using these questions to ask when visiting a care home it delves into understanding the care home’s philosophy and how personalised care plans are developed for each resident. By asking the right questions, you can gauge whether the home is genuinely committed to enhancing the quality of life for its residents. The article further encourages visitors to ask about staff training in dementia and elderly care, as well as the availability of specialist support services. Additionally, it highlights the importance of understanding the home’s communication policies, ensuring families are kept well-informed about their loved one’s well-being and any changes to their care needs.

If you have more questions or need further assistance in choosing the right care home, speak to one of our care experts for personalised advice. We’re here to help you make the best decision for your loved one.

After learning all about the questions to ask when visiting a care home you can use our free tool to help you find a suitable care home for your loved one.

Written on the 21st October 2024 by

Lewis Nelson

As the Company Director at Wiserr, I lead an innovative and impactful platform that provides information and advice on care and health services in local areas. We empower informed decisions and enhance the quality of life for thousands of users, and we are featured in over 3000 GP practices across the UK.

Find me on LinkedIn

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