When it’s time to look at care homes, families are rightly interested in several core things. It’s a big decision to approach, and making the right one can impact the lives of even the wider family. So doing research into which care homes have good reputations, facilities and more is the number one job of finding a loved one a care home to live in. Direct365 work with care homes on a daily basis, supplying essential services and products to ensure their premises pass regulations and comply to the standards to the law and the people they care for. So we’re in a unique position to discuss what we think patients should be looking at, and what care homes themselves need to ensure keeps them running smoothly.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the six things we think patients want to see in care homes, with all six points being completely essential to how residents and their families feel about living in a care home. So sit back and read out 6 things patients want to see in care homes.
6 Things Patients Want to see in Care Homes
Quality of Care
This is the most obvious, and the most essential, to anyone choosing a care home. Most people are going to view the home as the main way to judge, but with the advent of online reviewing portals such as Trustpilot or Feefo, you no longer need to leave the house to get a good look at what the general consensus is about a care home. With the world being closer than it ever has, you need to ensure that, if you run a care home, the quality of care you give to each resident is exactly what you would want yourself, and to the highest of levels.
Location
Residents and their families will always be aware off the distance between themselves and the home because visiting will be a big part of the experience for all. This isn’t something homes can have any say on, but for those looking for a somewhere for their family should know that there’ll be times when you’ll want to visit more regularly. Having a home that is difficult to get to isn’t going to give you the flexibility you want for the future.
Staffing
There’s a well-known shortage of care staff across the country, but even with this being the case, you’re in your rights to ask about the level of staffing at any home you visit. And for care home operators, hiring and retaining staff should be a top priority for you to give residents the care and dignity they deserve.
Activities
Living in a care home is as much about what you do as where you are. So activities and enjoyment always seems like one of the most important things to consider for both care home providers and potential residents. For older generations, keeping active in body and mind will keep you in good spirits but good health, too. Now, we’re not talking about residents taking part in 11 a side football games or marathon sprints, but taking part in games and activities that help keep them moving should be seen as an important part of a good quality of life.
Cost
This one may feel a little crude, but it’s one of the most important parts of the decision-making process. How much will the home be charging? There’s not much to say here other than that cost is always going to come into it when a decision like this is being made. But sometimes you do get what you pay for, so if the best fit costs more, it could still be worth going for it.
Hygiene
Cleanliness is such an important factor for people in a care home. There’s no doubt that those living in a care home are vulnerable, and this includes from things like bugs, viruses and diseases. So be sure to ask some questions about hygiene if you’re looking for a home, and for the care homes out there – this is something that could be the difference between creating happy residents and harming them.
Care Home FAQs
What is the difference between a care home and a nursing home?
The main difference between a care home and a nursing home is that a nursing home has the added feature of having a live-in medical professional, usually a nurse. This is because nursing homes are more regularly caring for those in ill health or more vulnerable, with care homes often catering for those who can no longer live independently, but are otherwise OK.
What is the average ago to go into a nursing home?
According to the Office of National Statistics, the average age in a care home is 86 years old, with three quarters being aged 80 and older.
What is the average price of a care home?
According to Hazelwood Care Homes, quoting carehome.co.uk, the average cost for a care home stay is between £27,000 – £39,000. These costs can change, depending on requirements and geographical locations.
Direct365 Care for the Care Homes
Direct365 have worked with care homes since our very first year. Over two decades into our work, and we still work with care homes on a daily basis, providing them with business essential products and services for some of the best prices on the market. So for more information on how we can help your care home, fill out the form below and a member of our team will return your call within 24 hours.