Visiting Nursing homes 

Which type of home is best for me?

It is important to know the level and type of care that you need to ensure your chosen home can provide the services you require. It is also important to think about how your care needs may change over time to ensure the home is also suitable in the future.  It is also important to think about the quality standards within the home and the location of the home for your relatives.

How many homes should I visit?

Ideally you should visit as many homes as possible so that you can make comparisons and find the right home for you.

When should I visit a nursing home?

To ensure you have the opportunity to meet the Director of Nursing / Manager of the home, it is advisable to call to make an appointment.

What do you need to look for when visiting a home?

It is sometimes difficult to remember all the things you want to ask when visiting a care home so the list below can be used as a guide to prompt you. You should ask about areas that you feel are most vital for your wellbeing. The questions below are designed to help you as you look around a potential new home.


 THE LOCATION 
  • Is the home in the right location for you?
  • Can relatives and friends easily visit?
  • Is the home easily accessible by public transport?
  • Is there a car park for you to use?
  • Does the setting of the home suit you e.g. close to shops / rural location?

THE LOOK AND FEEL OF THE HOME
  • What are your first impressions of the home as you arrive?
  • Is the outside area well kept and tidy with flowers, hanging baskets or pots?
  • Is the home and reception area welcoming when you first enter?
  • Is the home odour free?
  • Is the home clean and well maintained?
  • Are staff friendly and welcoming?
  • Does the atmosphere feel right?
  • Do the staff acknowledge you?
  • Are you offered refreshments?
  • Is there evidence of independence being maintained where possible?
  • Is everyone's dignity and privacy being respected?
  • Are relatives and friends encouraged to visit?
  • Are visitors welcome at anytime?
  • Does the home feel homely?
  • Are you encouraged to talk with residents/visiting relatives/staff?


 ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES
  • Does the home offer the type of bedroom you want?
  • Does the home offer single or shared rooms?
  • Are you able to look at an available bedroom?
  • Is the bedroom clean and bright?
  • Does the bedroom have ensuite facilities?
  • Is there a nearby toilet and bathroom?
  • What furniture is provided by the home?
  • Are residents encouraged to bring some of their own possessions?
  • Is there a telephone and television in the bedroom or the possibility of having a telephone or television installed?
  • Does each room have a nurse call system?
  • Does the home have suitable facilities for your needs?
  • Is there a variety of Living Spaces e.g. - lounges, quiet rooms, dining room(s), hairdressing salon, outside sitting areas?
  • Does the home have a number of bathrooms with showers or specialist baths?
  • Is there a lift to any upper floors?
  • Are the corridors and doorways wide?
  • Does the home provide easy access for people in wheelchairs?
  • Are there handrails around the home?
  • Are there accessible gardens and outlooks from the lounges and bedrooms?

THE TYPE OF CARE
  • Does the home provide the right type of care for your needs?
  • Can the home cope with any future changes in needs?
  • Are residents registered with the local GP Surgery?
  • Are residents and relatives encouraged to contribute to care plans?
  • Are care plans reviewed regularly?
  • Are you encouraged to contribute to any decisions made about the care of a resident?

THE STAFF
  • Does each resident have one member of staff (key worker) who are responsible for aspects of their care from the moment they move into the home?
  • What training do the staff receive?
  • What qualifications do the staff have?
  • Does the Manager / Head of Department give you confidence?
  • Can the staff be seen around the home?
  • Do staff interact well with residents e.g. show respect, knowledge of the residents?

CATERING SERVICES
  • Is there a current menu on display?
  • Is there a choice of menu at all meal times?
  • Can residents choose the time they have their meals?
  • Can meals be taken in a resident's room?
  • Are there snacks and drinks available at all times?
  • Is food freshly prepared in the kitchen?
  • Are special diets catered for?
  • How are residents who need help with eating assisted?

ACTIVITIES
  • Is there a regular activities programme?
  • Did you see a current copy of the planned activities?
  • Does the home have dedicated Activities staff?
  • Are residents consulted on the activities programme?
  • How do staff find out about residents' hobbies and interests?
  • Are there individual activities for people who are not able to join in group activities?
  • Are there any outings for residents?
  • Are external groups and entertainers invited to the home on a regular basis?
  • How are residents' religious needs met?
  • Are special events such as anniversaries and birthdays celebrated by the home?
  • Are there regular exercise opportunities for residents?
  • Are relatives and friends encouraged to participate in activities?
  • Does the home display details and photographs of recent activities?

STANDARDS
  • Does the home have written policies and procedures?
  • Is the home's statement of purpose available?
  • Is there a welcome booklet for new residents?
  • Does the home have a philosophy of care?
  • Are quality audits carried out in the home?
  • Is there a resident group that meets regularly?
  • Is there a regular relatives meeting?
  • Did you see an example of a contract between the home and the resident?
  • Is it clear what is included in the fee and what items are extras?
  • Does the home make available their latest inspection report?