Living Well with Dementia in a Care Home
Moving into a care home is about living well, not simply receiving care.
Choosing a care home is one of the most important decisions a person, their family and supporters, will make. The right home should provide safety, comfort, companionship and opportunities to continue living a fulfilling and meaningful life.
What types of care are available?
Residential Care Homes: Support with personal care, meals, medication, social activities and companionship. Some specialise in providing care for people living with dementia.
Nursing Homes: Provide all residential care services, together with registered nursing care.
Other services: Day care, carer breaks, rehabilitation and activities for people living at home.
Before you visit
Ask for a brochure, speak to the manager and arrange a visit. Don't be afraid to visit more than once. The questions you are asked help establish whether the home can meet the person's needs.
What should you look for?
- Friendly atmosphere
- Clean and fresh environment
- Kind, respectful staff
- Residents and appear relaxed
- Meaningful activities
- Good food – ask to see the kitchen and meet the catering staff
- Safe and accessible gardens
- Personalised bedrooms
Ask yourself: "Would I feel happy if someone I love lived here and would I be comfortable to live here myself?"
Questions worth asking
- How are staff trained?
- What activities are available?
- Are people supported to go outside every day
- Can residents make everyday choices?
- How are families involved?
- How are care plans developed and reviewed?
- What happens if a person's needs change?
A good care plan
A personalised care plan should describe the person's life story, wishes, health needs, routines and what matters most to them. It should be informed by the person and those closest to them and they should be involved in regular reviews. Many care homes have e-care plans that can be shared with families and supporters, including those who hold Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), with the permission of the person.
Living well every day
- Maintain relationships
- Enjoy hobbies
- Spend time outdoors
- Remain as independent as possible
- Feel valued and respected
Understanding funding
Care may be funded by the individual, Local Authority, NHS or a combination. Independent advice can help you understand the options.
How Parklands can help
- Independent advice
- Understanding care needs
- Funding guidance from IW Council who hold an information session monthly
- Support before and after moving
- Wellbeing activities
- Alzheimer Café support
Contact Parklands Dementia Resource Centre
Park Road Cowes Isle of Wight PO31 7LZ
📞 Call: 01983 220200 📧 Email: info@alzheimercafeiow.org.uk 🌐 Websites: parklands.org.uk or alzheimercafeiow.org.uk