How to Choose a Care Home: A Step-by-Step Guide
Choosing the right care home is one of the most important decisions families make. This guide walks you through the process from initial research to final decision.
Important
Finding the right care home requires careful research and multiple visits. This guide helps you navigate the process systematically to find a home where your loved one will thrive.
Before searching, clearly define what care is needed. Does your loved one need residential care (personal care support) or nursing care (24-hour nursing)? Are there specific needs like dementia care?
- Care Directory - search by location and care type
- CQC website for inspection reports
- Local authority lists of approved homes
- Recommendations from healthcare professionals
- Word of mouth from others in similar situations
Aim for 4-6 homes to visit. Consider location (for family visits), specialisms, CQC ratings, and costs. Don't rule out homes based on first impressions online.
- How staff interact with residents - warm and respectful?
- General atmosphere - calm, homely, welcoming?
- Cleanliness and maintenance
- Activities and social engagement
- Mealtimes and food quality
- Outside spaces and accessibility
- What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
- How do you handle medical emergencies?
- What activities and social programmes are offered?
- How do you involve families in care planning?
- What are the full costs including any extras?
- What is your CQC rating and when was the last inspection?
Many homes offer trial stays. This can help your loved one adjust and confirm the home is right before committing long-term.
Use Care Directory to search care homes by location and needs. CQC reports available at cqc.org.uk. Care Directory support: 0808 501 0191
Frequently Asked Questions
How many care homes should I visit?
Aim to visit at least 4-6 care homes. This gives you enough comparison without becoming overwhelming. Create a checklist to compare homes consistently.
What should I look for during a care home visit?
Observe staff-resident interactions, general atmosphere, cleanliness, activities, food quality, and outside spaces. Trust your instincts about how the home feels.
Should I visit at different times of day?
Yes, if possible. Visiting at different times (morning, afternoon, mealtime) gives you a fuller picture of daily life in the home.
Can I do a trial stay before committing?
Many care homes offer trial stays or respite care. This helps your loved one adjust and confirms the home is right before making a long-term commitment.
Need More Help?
Support Organisations
- Age UK:0800 678 1602
- Carers UK:0808 808 7777
- Alzheimer's Society:0333 150 3456
- Parkinson's UK:0808 800 0303
Care Directory Support
Sources & References
- CQC
- Age UK
- Which?