Selecting a care home is a significant decision that impacts your quality of life. If you or a loved one require care in later life, then choosing the right care home is just as important.
The Orders of St John Care Trust (OSJCT) is a not-for-profit charity that has people and care at the heart of everything it does. Offering care across Gloucestershire, Lincolnshire, Oxfordshire, Suffolk, West Sussex and Wiltshire, their experienced teams are passionate about the care they provide and will guide you through choosing a care home that’s right for you or a loved one.
If you are planning to pay for care for yourself or a loved one, this guide provides helpful information on choosing a care home.
Start online
Begin by researching care homes online. Check the providers’ websites and social media to gain information about the care available. For independent information, check for inspection reports by the Care Quality Commission or look at online consumer reviews. If you or your loved one are receiving hospital treatment, a social worker is assigned to you or your family and will usually provide a list of care homes to aid your search and decision.
Visit your shortlisted homes
After creating a shortlist, visit the homes in person. Contact the homes to ask about availability, request a brochure and arrange to visit them in person. It will give you a real feel for the place, and the people.
OSJCT recommends taking a checklist of key questions to ask while you are looking around including location, facilities, activities, meal options, and visiting arrangements, among others. OSJCT has a useful Help and Advice section, where you can find a detailed checklist on choosing a care home.
Choose your home
Reflect on your visits, use your checklist, and discuss options with family or friends. If you have follow-up questions or you would like to see the home again, do get in touch.
Once you’ve let your preferred home know that you or your loved one would like to move in, they will work with you to complete a care assessment to understand how best to support you or your loved one. If you are paying for care, they will ask you to complete a financial assessment. The home will also need to retain on file copies of registered Lasting Power of Attorney if these legal documents are in place for you or your loved one. Once a contract is signed, a move-in date will be agreed.
If you choose a care home with OJSCT, you'll experience a nurturing environment where you or your loved one can continue enjoying life with the support of family, friends, and expert care.
For more information, visit www.osjct.co.uk or call 0330 191 3551.
