A good care home should enhance life

CHOOSING the right care home for either yourself or a loved one is a big decision. It’s about much more than just the care itself. Retaining your sense of independence, the lifestyle you are accustomed to and important relationships are all factors that can create anxiety when making such a significant change in life. A care home is still a home. It may be a new environment, but the comforts, security and safety you are used to should not be compromised by the choice you make. Many care homes offer trial stays to help new residents and their families gain that all-important peace of mind and confidence that they are making the right decision. A trial stay gives you the chance to experience everyday life without making a full commitment. It enables you to see if the activities are varied and stimulating, get a personal taste of the dining experience and an understanding of whether the care is flexible and of a high enough standard to meet your own specific needs and wants. Experiencing life in a care home on a short-term basis will also give you the chance to meet your neighbours and the care team, as well as providing the opportunity for family and those whom you trust to visit and spend time with you in your potential new home. Deciding to move into a care home (such as the one pictured above) ought not to mean losing your independence, compromising on your lifestyle or altering the relationships you hold dear. Choosing the right one should enhance all these things and more.