Moving into a care home is a big step, not just for the person going into care but for the whole family.
Many emotions come to the fore. Sometimes you also have to feel your way through the process, as you’ve probably not had to do it before.
Types of care home
Contact your local council or Social Services department for a list of care homes in your area. There are different types of care homes providing different types of care services. These include:
- Residential Care Homes (also called ‘Care Homes Without Nursing’)
- Nursing Homes
- Dual Homes (sometimes described as ‘Care Homes With Nursing’ – these provide both Residential Care and Nursing Care)
- EMI Homes (Elderly Mentally Infirm – an expression often used to describe people with Alzheimer’s or Dementia)
- Other specialist care homes
Many care homes, whatever their type, also provide care for EMI residents. If that’s the case, it will be mentioned in the information provided by the home.
One vital question to ask when choosing a care home
Financial advice about care fees funding
Regardless of whether you’re paying care fees or not, it’s a good idea to take financial advice from an independent financial adviser. This will help you look more broadly at the options open to you – and ensure you protect your assets as much as possible. The earlier you can do this the better.
Choose an adviser who specialises in long term care planning AND who also understands the state benefits you’re entitled to, including NHS Continuing Healthcare.
Remember, if you need full time care for health needs, you do not necessarily have to pay for your own care! Read more about paying care fees.
Do you have a Power of Attorney?
This is a vital document! Read more about Lasting Powers of Attorney.
Is your Will up to date?
This is another vital document – and it’s crucial to keep it up to date. Find out more about making or updating your Will.
How To Choose A Care Home
Ask the vital questions most people don’t ask – but should.
This 39-page practical guide shows you what to ask, when to ask it and how to make a better decision when you choose a care home. You’ll save time now – and avoid unnecessary care costs later.
It also gives you a helpful introduction to care fees and fully-funded NHS care. Read more…
“Your list of questions to ask a care home is fantastic.” Jim Blainey
