Are you looking for a care home for a loved one? Or perhaps you’re planning for your future? Either way, the guide below will tell you everything you need to know about care homes in the UK including:
- When you should consider a care home
- Understanding the different types of care homes
- How much a care home cost
- How to pay for a care home
- How to find the right care home
When to consider a care home?
There are several reasons why you may want to consider a care home for either yourself or a relative. Some of these reasons are as follows:
- You’re struggling to manage in your own home.
- You’ve been advised by a healthcare professional to look into care homes.
- You’ve got a complex medical condition that requires specialist care.
Understanding the different types of care homes
There are two main types of care homes in the UK: residential care homes such as valeviewheights.com and nursing homes. That said, not all residential care homes and nursing homes provide the same care services.
Typically, a residential care home provides both accommodation and personal care. These can include help with washing, getting dressed, taking medication, and going to the toilet.
Nursing homes, on the other hand, are designed for people that need more care and support. These caregivers also provide personal care in the same way that cares homes do, but there’s always at least one qualified nurse on duty to provide nursing care.
How much does a care home cost?
The cost of a care home varies depending on where you live in the UK and the type of care that you need. Nursing homes tend to be more expensive than residential care homes, although this isn’t always the case.
Currently, the average cost of a residential care home in the UK is £704 per week, whereas a nursing home is around £888.
How to pay for a care home
If you’re worried about how you’re going to pay for a care home, then you’re far from being alone. However, there are several options available including self-funding, financial help from your local council, and financial help from your family.
How to find the right care home
Your choice of care home will be largely dependent on how you’re going to pay for your care. If you’re self-funding, then you simply need to find a care home that you like within your budget. If your local council is paying for your care, then they’ll let you know the options you can choose from.
If you’re in the fortunate position of being able to choose your own care home but you’re not sure how to find a good one, then there are several steps that you can take:
- Ask family and friends for recommendations
- Read online reviews and customer testimonials
- Look at each care home’s quality rating
- Book a face-to-face visit to see the care home and its staff
