Involving someone you trust
It can be helpful to make decisions about your care with a trusted support person, like a family member, friend, or your power of attorney. They can provide reassurance, help ask the right questions, and be there to support you emotionally and practically throughout the process.
If you have time, consider short stay first
If your NASC coordinator recommends it and time allows, starting with short stay respite care can be a great way to ease into care.
This gives you or your family member the chance to get familiar with the team, the environment, and daily routines. It can also help to make the transition to permanent care feel more comfortable and less overwhelming.
When a decision needs to be made urgently
In many situations, the need for care can arise suddenly. This often happens after a hospital stay, and it is common for the person needing care to be unable to visit care homes themselves. In these cases, it is a normal part of the process for a trusted support person to take on this responsibility.
If you are visiting on someone’s behalf, it helps to have a clear understanding of their care needs and preferences, so you can advocate for them effectively.
What to expect when visiting a care home
Before you visit, it is a good idea to make an appointment so the care home can ensure someone is available to show you around. You will meet with the care home general manager, or another member of the team, who can answer questions and provide detailed information about the services and facilities.
During the visit, you can expect to learn more about:
- The types of rooms and facilities available
- Daily meals and how dietary needs and preferences are supported
- On-site services and any specialist care provided
- Social activities and daily routines
Take the time to speak with team members and, if possible, meet some of the residents. This can help you get a genuine sense of the environment and whether it feels like a good fit.
Before your visit, it may be helpful to read through some frequently asked questions about life in a care home and make a note of anything you are curious about.
Information the care home will need
Once you have found a care home you feel comfortable with, the team will need information about the person’s care and support needs to help them decide whether they can meet their medical, personal, and wellbeing requirements. Providing this information early in the process can also help ensure a smooth transition into care.
Next step: The admission process
Once a decision has been made about which care home is the right fit, the next stage is the admission process . This involves sharing any remaining information about care needs, understanding what to expect when moving in, and taking care of any practical or legal steps needed to support a smooth transition.
The care home will require:
- NASC assessment
- An Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA or EPOA) for Personal Care and Welfare and for Property if in place
- EPOA activation letter for intending residents that are mentally incapable
- Any court orders appointing a Welfare Guardian or Property Manager (if relevant)
Learn more about care home admission agreements.
