5 Steps to follow when choosing a nursing home in the UK
Choosing a nursing home for a loved one is a major decision that can bring a mixture of emotions—relief, anxiety, and uncertainty. It’s a decision made with their well-being, comfort, and future happiness in mind, and the process can be challenging. With the wide variety of nursing homes available in the UK, from smaller residential homes to larger facilities offering specialist care, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming.
The good news is that with careful planning and research, you can find a nursing home that meets your loved one’s needs whilst offering peace of mind for you and your family. In this guide, we will walk you through five critical steps to follow when choosing a nursing home in the UK. By following these steps, you can ensure that your loved one receives the best possible care in a supportive and comfortable environment.
Step 1: Assess care needs
The first step in choosing a nursing home is understanding the level of care your loved one requires. Every individual has unique care needs, and nursing homes vary in the type of care they offer, from basic assistance with daily activities to advanced medical care for those with complex health conditions.
There are typically three types of care available at nursing homes in the UK:
- Residential care: This level of care is designed for individuals who need support with daily tasks, such as washing, dressing, and eating, but do not require constant medical supervision. It’s suitable for those who are relatively independent but may need assistance with mobility or personal care.
- Nursing care: For individuals who require more intensive medical support, such as administering medications, wound care, or managing chronic illnesses, nursing care homes offer a higher level of care provided by trained nurses. These homes are equipped to handle more complex health conditions and often provide 24/7 medical supervision.
- Dementia care: Individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease often require specialised care in environments that are designed to reduce confusion, anxiety, and behavioural issues. Dementia care homes provide specialised staff and activities to enhance cognitive function and create a calming atmosphere for residents.
Before you start researching specific homes, it’s helpful to get a professional assessment from a doctor, social worker, or geriatric specialist. In the UK, your local authority can also conduct a needs assessment to help determine the level of care required. This will give you a clearer idea of whether your loved one needs residential care, nursing care, or dementia care. Additionally, the assessment will help determine if financial support is available, either through local authority funding or NHS Continuing Healthcare.
Key considerations:
- Does your loved one need help with everyday tasks like bathing and dressing, or do they require constant medical supervision?
- Are there any specific health conditions or needs, such as dementia or mobility issues, that require specialist care?
- Will their needs likely change over time, requiring a different level of care in the future?
Step 2: Research and shortlist nursing homes
Once you have a clear understanding of the required level of care, the next step is to start researching nursing homes. This can initially be done online, but should ultimately lead to in-person visits. In the UK, there are a number of resources that can help guide your search:
- The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is the independent regulator of health and social care services in England. Their website provides up-to-date inspection reports and quality ratings for nursing homes across the country. Homes are rated on several factors, including safety, effectiveness, care quality, responsiveness, and leadership. Looking at these reports will give you an idea of the home’s overall quality and any areas for improvement.
- Local authority directories: Many local councils publish lists of registered nursing homes and care services in their area, often with contact details and information about services provided.
- Word of mouth: Speak to friends, family, and healthcare professionals for recommendations. Personal experiences can provide valuable insights into the day-to-day realities of a nursing home.
- Online reviews: Websites like carehome.co.uk feature reviews from residents and their families. These reviews offer real-life perspectives on care quality, the friendliness of staff, and the cleanliness of the home.
Once you’ve done your initial research, create a shortlist of three to five homes that meet your criteria based on care services, location, and reputation. Pay special attention to homes that specialise in the type of care your loved one requires, such as dementia care or nursing for chronic conditions.
Key considerations:
- Does the home have a good CQC rating, and what do the inspection reports reveal about its quality?
- Is the nursing home located in a convenient area, making it easy for family members to visit regularly?
- What is the home’s approach to medical care, and how do they handle emergencies?
Step 3: Visit nursing homes and speak to staff
Visiting potential nursing homes is perhaps the most crucial part of the decision-making process. Whilst online research is useful, nothing compares to seeing the environment in person, observing staff interactions, and getting a feel for the overall atmosphere.
When visiting nursing homes, take the time to ask detailed questions and make observations. Here are some key areas to focus on:
- Cleanliness and maintenance: Is the home clean, well-maintained, and free of unpleasant odours? A clean environment is essential for both the comfort and safety of residents.
- Staff interactions: Pay close attention to how the staff interact with residents. Do they show respect, kindness, and patience? Are they attentive to residents’ needs? The quality of care is heavily influenced by the staff, so it’s important to gauge their professionalism and attitude.
- Facilities and activities: Look at the common areas, outdoor spaces, and the quality of the resident rooms. Are there spaces where residents can socialise, participate in activities, or enjoy fresh air? A variety of activities, such as exercise classes, music therapy, and arts and crafts, can help keep residents engaged and happy.
- Meals and nutrition: Ask about the meal options. Are they nutritious, varied, and tailored to residents’ dietary needs? Good nutrition is vital for maintaining health and energy levels.
- Safety measures: Ensure the home is equipped with safety features like handrails, emergency call buttons, and secure access for residents who may wander.
During your visit, speak with both staff and residents if possible. Staff members should be approachable and willing to answer any questions you have. Residents or their family members can give you insight into the daily life at the home and the overall level of care provided.
Key considerations:
- How often do residents receive personalised care and attention from staff?
- What recreational and social activities are available to keep residents engaged and active?
- How are residents’ health and well-being monitored on a day-to-day basis?
Step 4: Review the cost and funding options
Nursing home care can be expensive, and understanding the costs involved is a crucial part of the decision-making process. Fees can vary widely depending on the location, type of care, and the individual nursing home.
In England, the average cost for residential care is around £600 per week, whilst nursing care can range from £800 to over £1,000 per week. These figures can be higher in London and the South East. For those who require dementia care or homes with specialist services, costs may be higher.
It’s important to understand what is included in the nursing home fees. Typically, the cost will cover accommodation, meals, personal care, and basic medical support, but there may be additional charges for services such as physiotherapy, excursions, or specialised equipment.
Depending on your loved one’s financial situation, they may be eligible for financial assistance:
- Local authority funding: If your loved one’s assets are below a certain threshold (currently £23,250 in England), they may qualify for local authority funding. The amount of support provided depends on their financial situation and the level of care they need.
- NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC): If your loved one has complex medical needs, they may qualify for full funding through the NHS Continuing Healthcare program, which covers the cost of care in a nursing home.
- Attendance allowance: This is a non-means-tested benefit that helps with the cost of personal care for individuals over 65 who have a long-term illness or disability.
When reviewing the financial aspect of nursing homes, be sure to ask for a breakdown of all costs, including any additional fees for services that may not be included in the standard care package. It’s also wise to enquire about what happens if your loved one’s financial situation changes in the future.
Key considerations:
- What is the total weekly or monthly cost, and what services are included in that price?
- Are there additional charges for services such as medical care, therapies, or excursions?
- What financial assistance options are available, and how do they apply to your loved one’s situation?
Step 5: Review the contract and make an informed decision
After visiting nursing homes, assessing their care quality, and understanding the costs involved, the final step is to review the contract before making a commitment. The contract should clearly outline the terms of care, payment structure, and any policies related to changes in care needs or financial situations.
Ensure the contract includes:
- A detailed care plan tailored to your loved one’s specific needs, including how it will be reviewed and updated over time.
- The total cost of care, including any additional charges for extra services.
- The process for handling complaints or disputes.
- The terms of notice required if you or your loved one decides to leave the home.
If there is anything in the contract that you do not understand, seek legal advice or consult with a professional who specialises in elder care contracts.
Key considerations:
- Does the contract clearly outline the care plan and costs?
- How often will the care plan be reviewed to meet your loved one’s changing needs?
- What is the process for handling complaints or concerns?
Conclusion
Choosing a nursing home in the UK requires careful planning, research, and consideration. By following these five steps—assessing care needs, researching homes, visiting potential options, reviewing costs, and evaluating contracts—you can make an informed decision that provides your loved one with the best possible care in a comfortable and supportive environment.
At Albert Suites at Battersea Place, we are committed to providing the highest standard of care. With state-of-the-art facilities and compassionate, highly trained staff, we offer a warm, welcoming environment where residents receive personalised attention tailored to their needs. To learn more about our services or to schedule a visit, contact us today. Let us help you find the best care solution for your loved one.