Key Questions To Ask When Visiting A Care Home

Why Asking The Right Questions Matters

Visiting a care home to choose the right environment for a loved one is a significant and emotional decision. In a good care home families should be welcomed into a warm and caring setting, where person-centred support is prioritised alongside comfort, dignity, and community. This blog explores the key questions to ask when visiting care homes, helping prospective residents and their families make informed decisions based on what really matters for wellbeing, safety, and happiness.

Understanding Types of Care Available & The Quality of Care Provided

This area is a crucial part of the decision-making process because knowing the type of care a home provides can be a deal breaker. It is important to find a place where your own or a loved one's needs are properly met. For example, if you were searching for a care home that offers dementia care and then found another that provides specialised dementia care, you would likely choose the specialist home. Another important consideration is to ask how the staff contribute to the care area you are interested in, the quality of the care plans, and how often these plans are reviewed, as care is often an evolving journey.

Exploring The Environment & Daily Activities

Another important aspect to consider and ask about is the daily environment and the range of activities available. This can often be gauged from the moment you enter the care home. Consider if it feels warm and welcoming, whether it is clean and tidy without being cluttered, and pay attention to your first impressions. During your tour, ask to explore the communal areas and lounges to see if they are spacious, bright, and cosy. A good care home should create an inviting atmosphere that encourages social interaction among residents. Request to see the weekly activities planner to get an idea of what is offered. A quality home will provide a varied programme including arts and crafts, gardening clubs, outings to the local community, as well as both individual and group activities suitable for all residents.

It is important to ask how the home caters for residents with limited mobility, do activities come to them if they spend most of their time in bed or are less able to join group sessions? The activities offered should be inclusive and accommodate all levels of care needs. Through this, you can get a true sense of the social, cultural, and leisure opportunities available, giving a clearer picture of daily life and engagement within the home.

Food Nutrition & Mealtimes

Food and nutrition are fundamental cornerstones of quality care, playing a vital role in residents' overall wellbeing. Families should inquire in detail about the dining experience, including the variety, flexibility, and nutritional balance of meal options available, as well as how dietary requirements are thoughtfully accommodated. It is important to ask whether chefs actively engage with residents and their families to discuss their likes, dislikes, and preferences, ensuring meals are not only nutritious but also enjoyable and tailored to individual tastes. Questions about how frequently menus are refreshed to offer a range of palate-pleasing options are essential, as this helps keep meals exciting and prevents allows residents to explore different cuisines. In addition, it is crucial to check whether cultural considerations are honoured and if seasonal changes to the menu are incorporated, reflecting fresh, local produce where possible to maintain variety and appeal.

For example, Lammermuir House provides home-cooked meals served in a communal dining setting designed to foster a positive and inclusive atmosphere, encouraging social interaction and companionship among residents. Families may wish to understand how decisions are made regarding special diets, such as soft or alternative food options, and how mealtimes are structured to encourage socialising and enjoyment. Discussing these details gives families peace of mind that nutrition is prioritised alongside taste and the social benefits of shared meals. Ultimately, a person-centred dining experience that respects individual preferences and promotes dignity and pleasure at mealtimes contributes significantly to residents’ quality of life.

Safety, Staffing & Communication

Safety, staffing, and communication are vital aspects of care quality that families should thoroughly explore during their visit to a care home. It is essential to understand the number of staff on duty, their qualifications and training, and how residents’ care needs are continuously monitored and documented. Families should look for accreditations displayed both on the care home's website and within the premises, which demonstrate adherence to recognised quality and safety standards. Inquire about how often staff training takes place, the types of training provided, and the methods used, as ongoing education ensures staff remain competent and confident in their roles.

At Lammermuir House, staff receive comprehensive training to manage emergencies and safeguarding with professionalism and kindness. It is important to ask how the home supports residents who may experience anxiety or require additional assistance with mobility, ensuring that individual needs are met sensitively and respectfully. Communication with families is another crucial area. Understanding how the home keeps families informed, whether through weekly newsletters, emails, or other communication channels, as this provides reassurance and trust. A high-quality care home is well-staffed with permanent staff who know the residents well, including their preferences and histories. It is preferable that such homes do not rely heavily on agency workers unfamiliar with the residents, as continuity of care significantly impacts wellbeing.

Good communication promotes transparency and builds confidence in the care partnership between staff, residents, and families. Regular updates and open dialogue ensure that families feel involved and informed about their loved ones' care and daily life. Ultimately, robust safety standards, sufficient trained staff, and effective communication underpin the delivery of compassionate, personalised care that puts residents' comfort and security first.

If you are looking for a care home that truly prioritises quality, compassion, and personalised support, why not take the next step and arrange a visit to Lammermuir House? Experience the warm, welcoming atmosphere for yourself, meet the dedicated staff, and see first-hand the high standards of care, nutrition, safety, and community that set this home apart. Booking a tour is the best way to find peace of mind knowing your loved one will be supported with respect and kindness in a beautiful, coastal setting. Contact Lammermuir House today to discover how they can provide a caring, comfortable home tailored to your family’s unique needs.