End of Life Care in Care Homes: What Families Should Know

Good end of life care ensures people die with dignity, comfort, and according to their wishes. Care homes should be equipped to provide this, though some residents may need hospice or hospital care.

• Where would your loved one prefer to be at the end?
• Are there specific wishes about medical interventions?
• Who should be contacted and involved?
• Are there religious or cultural requirements?
• Has an Advance Decision (Living Will) been made?
• Is there a DNACPR (Do Not Attempt CPR) form in place?

• Pain and symptom management
• Emotional and spiritual support
• Family involvement and support
• Maintaining dignity and comfort
• Respecting wishes and preferences
• Clear communication with family

Good care homes support families through this difficult time - allowing flexible visiting, providing private space, keeping you informed, and offering bereavement support afterwards.

Some residents benefit from specialist hospice input. This might mean visits from hospice staff to the care home, or transfer to a hospice for final care. Discuss options with the care home and GP.

The care home will support you with practical matters - registering the death, collecting belongings, and arranging viewings if wished. Ask about their bereavement support services.