Once the decision has been made to select a suitable home, it may be useful to think about some of the questions you will want to ask when visiting a potential care home.

The following list is by no means exhaustive but it should provide a helpful starting point.

First Impressions

Does the Care Home feel homely, friendly and caring?
Does the Care Home smell clean and fresh?
Do the residents look happy, well cared for and are they interested in what’s going on?
How are the residents addressed and treated by the staff?
Are visitors encouraged at all times?

Location

Is the Care Home in an area you are already familiar with?
Can relatives and friends reach the Care Home easily?
Are there shops, churches, pubs etc. nearby?
Will you have to change your GP?

The Room

Is the room single or shared?
Are there en-suite rooms available?
Can you bring your own personal possessions?
Are there telephone and/or television aerial sockets?
Can you have you own telephone with a separate number?

Facilities & Services

Is there a lift?
Is there a range of social activities?
Are there regular visits from ministers, hairdressers, chiropodists etc?
Are there smoking/non smoking areas?
Are there separate dining and sitting rooms?
Is there a garden?

Meals

Is the food interesting, varied and of good quality?
Is there a choice of menus?
Are special diets catered for?
Can you take meals in your room?
Can you offer family/friends refreshments?