Choosing the right care home for a loved one can be a difficult task. You want to ensure that they are comfortable, catered for, treated well and have all of the services that they require. When searching for the perfect care home, there are a few things that you should consider and look out for to ensure that you are choosing the right one for your loved one.
What are your first impressions?
Your first impressions of a place is extremely important; from this, you can usually make a decision on whether you would like your loved one to stay there or not. Pay attention to the way you are greeted and the overall atmosphere of the care home; is it homely and welcoming? When walking around, check that the care home is clean and pleasantly decorated and furnished. If you notice any unpleasant smells or unclean areas, you may want to consider other options.
If the residents look happy, this is a good sign that they are being treated well. All patients should be treated with the utmost respect and dignity; a simple walk around the care home should indicate how residents are generally feeling. Pay attention to the residents: are they well groomed and properly dressed? Are they chatting, in company or involved in any activities?
Is the care home in a suitable location?
You may find the perfect care home that offers all of the services that you need, however, if it is in a difficult location or far away, this can cause problems. You should aim to find a home that is easy for yourself and other visitors to get to, particularly as this means that you can visit often. Other location factors to consider include: outside disruptive noise (such as loud traffic), nearby facilities (particularly if your loved one enjoys going out) and parking facilities for visitors.
Check that the care home has the suitable equipment and adaptations that your loved one requires. The corridors and toilets should be wide enough for a wheelchair or a walking frame and toilets and baths should be suitably adapted. Make sure that the care home has lifts and ramps so that residents can easily get around.
Are the bedrooms and living rooms suitable?
Your loved one may spend a lot of time in their bedroom or the sitting room, so you want to make sure that they are pleasant areas. Ask staff whether residents are allowed to bring their own furniture or possessions. It is also worth checking that there is somewhere for visitors to sit in their bedroom. In the living area, look out for televisions and radios to fill any silence, chairs arranged to encourage socialising and areas where visitors can sit and interact with their loved ones.
Avon Park Residential Home in Southampton
At Avon Park Residential Home, we understand how important it is to find the right care home for your loved one. We provide a homely, empathetic and caring environment for all of our residents, personalising each care plan for different residents and their needs. To take a look around our welcoming residential home, simply book a visit today.
