If you have ever seen older episodes of the famed TV show, The Simpsons, then you may remember how the care home that Grandpa Simpson lives in was depicted. It was the epitome of what most people fear; the nurses were grumpy and uncaring, the rooms were unclean, and there were no activities for residents to pass the time.However, as The Simpsons have a robust comedic streak, this image is not to be taken seriously!Care homes in 2023, irrespective of where they are located, are dedicated to their residents, and the staff strive to provide the best care that they can.
However, if you or a loved one are looking for a care home to move into, you may be wondering what the right one for you will look like. What makes a care home unique? Below is a quick guide on what to look for.
Personalized Care
A care home that offers personalized care is exceptional. Luckily, this is becoming the most common type of care that you will find in a care home.It means that staff take the time to get to know each resident and their preferences, habits, and medical needs and use that information to provide them with individualized care, which is vital if someone is aiming to recover from a stroke, for example. Indeed, Signature care homes with assisted living.
A Home-Like Environment
Does the care home you are visiting feel relaxing? A care home that feels like a welcoming and comfortable home rather than an institution can make a vast impact on the quality of life of its residents. This includes factors such as the design and layout of the building, the furnishings, and the decor, as well as the activities and social opportunities available.
Going back to The Simpsons analogy, you don’t want a care home that has a game room, a library, and a gym that none of the residents of the home are allowed to use!
Compassionate and Skilled Staff
Caregivers who are compassionate, patient, and highly skilled are essential to making a care home special. They should have the right training and experience to meet the potentially challenging needs of each of the residents and be able to provide a warm, friendly, and supportive environment.
Access to Amenities and Services
Care homes that offer a wide range of amenities and services, such as transportation, recreational activities, housekeeping, and meal services, can enhance the quality of life of their residents. These amenities can help keep residents active, engaged, and connected to their community.
Strong Relationships with Families
The staff who work in a care home that prioritizes family involvement and communication can make a real difference in the happiness and well-being of residents. This includes providing regular updates and progress reports, as well as creating opportunities for family members to visit and participate in activities with their loved ones. Any staff team in a home that seems ambivalent and not caring is not going to make a good support base for anybody, especially a vulnerable older person.