We understand that choosing a care home takes a lot of time and consideration. However, we are here to help you along the way.
To make it simple, we have provided some information on three key factors that are important to understand before moving into a care home; Considerations, Choosing The Right Home For You and Funding.
There are many reasons why people choose to move into a care home, whether it’s to benefit from companionship or assistance with day-to-day tasks, such as dressing and mealtimes, to those who require more complex medical support within a safe environment.
But how do you know it’s the right decision for you or your loved one? If you feel that any of the points below relate to you or your loved one, it may be time you start considering residential care.
From location to services and facilities, it is important to find a care home that is suited to you and your individual needs.
Before you move into a care home, you will undergo an assessment by either a GP, nurse or social worker to determine the services you require. Once you are informed about your needs, it’s time to look at what homes are available for you.
Residential care homes are primarily for those who have chosen to live within a care community for a variety of benefits such as companionship, assistance with day-to-day tasks and a range of daily activities.
Whereas nursing care homes provide a safe, secure and responsive environment for those who require more complex medical support, whether it’s general nursing care or specialist dementia care, there will be a home suited to you.
Different care homes offer a range of unique facilities from ensuite wet rooms, rooftop terraces, cinema rooms and hair & beauty salons; they aim to provide convenience and comfort to all who reside there.
Finally, you must consider the location of the home. Many people often want to stay close to where they live to be able to enjoy visits from loved ones and social outings, inside and outside the home. Residents are often encouraged to continue the social activities, hobbies and interests they enjoyed before residing at the home. However, some choose to move closer to their loved ones, for visits and support.
Once you have chosen a home that suits your requirements, we always suggest that you take a look around before moving in, speaking to the Manager and team to see if it is suited to you or your loved one.
At Athena Healthcare Group, we understand that moving into a care home is a difficult decision, especially for couples. It is common for couples, who may have been together for over 50+ years, that one may become a full-time carer to the other. The idea of living apart may be heart-breaking and unimaginable. However, sometimes more help is needed to ensure both individuals are getting the care they need and deserve. Athena Healthcare Group would like to offer compassionate care and an enriched lifestyle that is tailored to both individuals, whether they have different care needs or are both needing extra support.
As a care provider, we would also like to offer a more integrated approach to how we help people who have been their partner’s carer and are starting to feel that they can no longer meet their full requirements, whether it be due to their partner’s increasing needs or changes in their own circumstances.
We aim to support and accommodate couples to the best of our ability to help ease the transition into care, providing a tailored care plan to both individuals that unite their values, combats loneliness and offers an independent and dignified future.
Each of our homes caters to a range of diverse needs as we understand each person and couple is different. Our Managers will take the time to speak to you to understand both of your requirements before trying to find the most suitable, bespoke solution for you.
There are many different options available to cover care home fees, from Government assistance to third-party agreements and self-funded care. Before you decide to move into a care home, it is important that you are aware of all available financial options. Therefore, we strongly suggest that you seek independent financial advice from someone who specialises in long-term care.
We suggest that you undergo a needs and finances assessment before moving into a care home to ensure you do not miss out on any financial assistance. You can also find out more information regarding care fees and funding online on sites such as Age UK and GOV UK.
As a care home provider, we are unable to offer financial advice. However, we can talk you through funding options and the costs to meet your specific needs. If you would like to discuss these options further, please give the Lodge a call and speak to the Registered Home Manager.
