A Step-by-Step Guide for Families
Making the decision to find a care home for a loved one is never an easy option. There’s so much to consider and it can be daunting to know where to start.
This step-by-step guide is designed to help families in Southampton and beyond navigate the process with confidence.
Step 1: Identify the Level of Care Needed
Before you begin your search, it helps to understand your loved ones needs and preferences.
Residential care – help with everyday tasks such as washing, dressing and taking medication. This ideal for residents who may need a some additional support, and benefit from living in a close-knit community environment.
Respite care – short term stays to offer family carers a well-earned break, or to provide support during recuperation from an illness or procedure.
Assisted living – this gives residents full independence but, has the safety net of staff nearby to support them, when they need it, how they need it.
Knowing what level of care you require will narrow down your options right from the start.
Step 2: Research CQC Ratings and Reports
Every registered care home in England is inspected by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Their reports are a reliable starting point for understanding a home’s quality of care.
Check the CQC website for each home you are considering. Look for ratings across five key areas:
- Safe
- Effective
- Caring
- Responsive
- Well-led
A home rated Good or Outstanding in all areas is a good indication of consistent, high-quality care. You can also view the whole inspection report to find specific strengths or areas they have previously needed to improve upon.
Step 3: Visit in Person
There’s only so much a website can tell you. It is crucial to visit a care home in person. Here’s what we think you should look for on a visit:
The Atmosphere
- Does the home feel warm and welcoming?
- Do the staff and residents have positive interactions?
- Do the residents looks comfortable?
The Facilities
- Are the communal areas clean, tidy and well-maintained?
- Are the residents rooms kept private, and can they be personalised with their own belongings?
- Is there a suitable outside area for the residents to enjoy?
The Activities
- Do the residents have access to a daily or weekly activity plan?
- Does the home attend social events, general outings and/or provide in-house entertainment?
- Can the residents choose how to spend their time?
Most homes welcome prospective residents and their families to visit, have a look around, and ask questions. At Avon Park, we actively encourage a walk-around and welcome families to come back to visit as often as they like.
Step 4: Ask the Right Questions
Prepare a short list of questions you would like answered, such as;
- What is the staff to client ratio (day & night)?
- How are care plans developed and reviewed?
- What happens if a residents needs change over time?
- Are there additional fees for anything else, for example, days out and in-house activities?
- Can the home cater for specific dietary needs?
- How are families kept up to date with information and changes?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions, a good home is transparent and happy to answer any questions.
Step 5: Location and Accessibility
When you’re looking for a care home for families in Southampton, a quiet location that’s easy to access is vital.
If a home is too far out in the country, it can make frequent trips difficult. A city centre location may not provide the peace and open space that many older people enjoy. The best place is in the middle somewhere.
Avon Park stands on the boundary of Southampton and Portsmouth, in the peaceful Park Gate residential area. It has fantastic transport links, including the M27 corridor and Swanwick rail station, so it really does offer the best of both worlds, a tranquil, domestic atmosphere that’s easy enough for families to get to.
Step 6: Review and Compare Costs
The cost of moving into a care home varies based on where it is, what quality of care it provides and what facilities it has. If you’re comparing costs, ask what the fee covers e.g. food, activities, laundry and utilities.
Good home will give you a clear, comprehensive fee breakdown so you can make an informed choice.
Step 7: Trust Your Instincts
After all the research, the visiting, the asking questions, the last step is the easiest.
- What does it feel like?
- Would the home be a place where your loved one may be happy and properly cared for?
- Are the staff friendly and welcoming?
- Does the general atmosphere correspond with what is most important to your family?
When you find the right place you just know.
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TEL: 01489 574616
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