What is a care home?
Care homes provide round-the-clock care, 365 days a year, for individuals who need additional support and the reassurance that help is always available. Along with assistance in daily activities, care homes offer social activities, events, meals, and services like cleaning and laundry. Residents benefit from easy access to healthcare professionals, including GPs, podiatrists, and physiotherapists, while enjoying opportunities to meet new people and form friendships.
What type of care can we provide?
Each of our care homes has a compassionate and dedicated team offering high-quality:
- Nursing Care
- Residential Care
- Dementia Care
- End-of-Life Care
- Short-Term Respite Care
Where to begin
Start by arranging a free care needs assessment through your local council. Once you have a clear understanding of the care requirements, search for a care home that meets those needs and is conveniently located.
Questions to ask when viewing a home
Before visiting a care home, take some time to consider what matters most to you. It’s helpful to prepare a list of questions in advance. During your visit, use these questions to gain a better understanding of the home’s quality, facilities, and overall environment. Key areas to focus on may include:
- What types of care does the home provide (e.g., residential, nursing, dementia care)?
- Is the home registered and licensed with the relevant regulatory authorities?
- How long has the care home been operating?
- What is the home's capacity, and what is the current occupancy?
- What qualifications and experience do the team have?
- How many team member are on duty at different times of day and night?
- Is there a registered nurse available 24/7 (if applicable)?
- How does the home ensure ongoing team member training and development?
- How is personal care provided (e.g., bathing, dressing, medication management)?
- Can the home accommodate special medical needs (e.g., diabetes, mobility)?
- What healthcare professionals are available (e.g., doctors, physiotherapists, dietitians)?
- How is medication managed and administered?
- Are private and shared rooms available?
- Can people personalise their rooms?
- Are the facilities wheelchair accessible?
- Are there communal areas like lounges, gardens and shared dining spaces?
- What is the meal plan like? Is it adapted to individual dietary needs or preferences, and how?
- Are refreshments available throughout the day?
- What activities and social events are available?
- Are activities tailored to individual interests and abilities?
- How often are day trips and outings organised?
- Is there a focus on maintaining people’s independence and mental stimulation?
- What are the visiting hours, and are they flexible?
- Are visitors allowed to stay overnight or for extended visits?
- Can people make or receive phone calls at any time?
- What are the fees, and what do they include?
- Are there any additional charges?
- Will I need to arrange any insurance for personal items?
- Is financial assistance available?
- Are inspection reports available?
- Can you speak to the people who are currently living in the home or their families about their experience?
Asking these questions will help you gauge whether the care home is the right fit for your loved one’s needs, preferences, and overall comfort. Take notes during the visit and trust your instincts to ensure that the environment is warm, welcoming, and professional.
What’s important to you?
The care home you choose will be your new home, so it’s important to think about the parts of you daily schedule and home comforts that mean the most to you, to ensure your priority needs are met going forward. You may wish to ask yourself or your loved one the following questions before you begin your search:
- Do I want to stay close to my community, family, and friends?
- Do I want a private bathroom?
- Can I bring my pet?
- Is it important to take personal furniture and decorations?
- How much can I afford to spend?
Visit Us
Choosing a care home is a significant decision. We invite you to visit your local Excelcare home for a chat about your preferences and requirements. During your visit, speak with the people who live and work as part of the Excelcare Family, explore the facilities, and join us for activities or a meal.
"To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honours."