Questions to ask when choosing a home

Here are some questions to ask when choosing a home...

Who owns the home? Who manages it?

 

Are advance payments required?

 

Can the home meet your cultural and lifestyle choices – such as faith, religious practices, diet etc. Is there a place of worship?

 

What arrangements are there to make sure you can buy clothes, toiletries, cigarettes, alcohol, newspapers, presents, stamps…

 

Does the home have a no smoking policy?

 

If you’re deaf or have a hearing impairment does the home have equipment to allow you full access to all activities?

 

If you’re blind or have a visual impairment can you walk around the home and grounds with ease? Will any special equipment be available to you?

 

Have all staff been trained to be aware of any sensory needs you may have?

 

Are the building and grounds well maintained?

 

Are the staff friendly, welcoming and interested?

 

Does the home look and smell clean?

 

Are residents relaxed, happy, confident and occupied?

 

How many staff are on duty during the day and at night? What are their duties? To what level are they trained?

 

What time are meals served? Is there a choice of menu alternatives?

 

Are there facilities for preparing your own snacks and drinks?

 

Do you have a choice of single or shared rooms? Do they offer any en-suite facilities? How many communal rooms are there?

 

What arrangements are made to safeguard money and valuables? Are they insured?

 

Can you lock your bedroom door? Do you have lockable storage facilities in your room?

 

Is the home near public transport and shops?

 

Can relatives and friends get there easily to visit you?

 

Are visitors welcome at all times? What facilities are provided for them?

 

Is there a public telephone where you can speak in private to friends or family?

 

Are there regular activity sessions and outings?

 

What facilities are included in the weekly charge – chiropody, entertainment, library, hairdressing? Are there extra charges for anything?

 

If a resident needs medical attention, what is the procedure? Which GPs normally attend?

Can you keep your own GP if you wish?

 

Are residents accompanied on visits to hospital, clinic, consultant, GP? Is a charge made for this?

 

Are residents allowed to stay in bed when they wish? Can they have meals in bed?

 

Can residents choose their own rising and retiring times?

 

How does the home demonstrate care of residents as individuals – such as diets, own furniture and pictures, TV and phone points in own room?

 

Is the latest inspection report available for you to read?