The facility you choose will, of course, depend on the health and degree of dependence of your elderly relative. However, other fundamental criteria will also be taken into account such as proximity to the family, the available budget, the activities and services on offer, the quality of service delivered by the care team and the preferences of the person concerned. Are you looking for a friendly, safe environment? Is your loved one dependent or do they suffer from a specific medical condition? What are the care/nursing home admission criteria in England?
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1. Understanding the care needs assessment
The first formal step before moving into a care home is undergoing a care needs assessment, usually conducted by your local council. This is a vital process where healthcare professionals assess the individual’s specific care requirements, including daily living tasks such as washing, dressing, and eating, as well as more complex medical needs like dementia care or physical disabilities.
The assessment considers whether the person could remain in their own home with added support, or if a care home would provide a more appropriate level of care. The council may recommend care homes based on the findings, but the final decision on where to move remains with the individual or their family.
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2. Eligibility and financial assessment
Once care needs have been established, it’s crucial to assess the financial aspect of moving into a care home. Care home fees in England can range from £600 to £1,500 per week, depending on the level of care required and the location of the home.
If your savings and assets, including property, exceed £23,250, you will likely need to fund your care yourself. If they fall below this threshold, you may be eligible for local authority funding. However, even in cases where local authority funding is available, the individual might still be required to contribute part of their income, such as pensions.
There are various types of financial assistance, including:
- Local authority funding: Based on your financial assessment, the local council may help pay some or all of your care costs.
- NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC): For those with severe health needs, NHS CHC funding might be available, which covers the entire cost of care.
3. Health and safety regulations
Care homes in the UK must comply with strict health and safety standards set by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). These standards ensure that care homes are well-equipped to meet the health, safety, and well-being of their residents. Key regulations include staffing levels, medical care, infection control, fire safety, and medication management. Before moving into a care home, it’s essential to verify the CQC rating and read inspection reports to ensure the home meets high standards of care.
4. Selecting the right type of care home
Choosing the right care home depends largely on the individual’s specific care needs:
- Residential care homes: These offer accommodation, meals, and personal care (such as help with washing and dressing) for people who may not be able to live independently but do not require 24-hour nursing care.
- Nursing care homes: These homes offer a higher level of medical care, with trained nurses on-site 24/7 to manage complex medical conditions.
- Specialist care homes: Some care homes cater specifically to individuals with dementia, Alzheimer's, or other specific health conditions.
In England, you can visit potential care homes, or view them online through virtual tours, to better understand their environment, staff, and services.
5. Emotional and psychological readiness
Another often overlooked condition is emotional preparedness. Moving into a care home can be a difficult transition, especially for individuals who have lived independently for most of their lives. It’s important to engage in open conversations with family members and healthcare professionals to prepare emotionally for the move. Many care homes also offer support services to help new residents adjust to their new surroundings, ensuring a comfortable and supportive environment.
6. Legal and administrative requirements
Before moving into a care home, there are several legal requirements to address:
- Power of attorney: It’s advisable to establish power of attorney for health and financial decisions before moving into a care home, especially for those with cognitive impairments.
- Advance care planning: This is a plan where individuals can outline their care preferences should they become unable to communicate their wishes in the future.
- Contracts and agreements: Read and understand the care home contract, which should clearly outline fees, services, and the care provided.
7. Family involvement
Family members play a vital role in the care home selection process. Their involvement in the care needs assessment, financial planning, and emotional support can make the transition smoother. Many care homes encourage family involvement by offering regular updates on their loved ones’ well-being and allowing frequent visits.
Are you or a loved one considering moving into a care home?
Understanding the conditions and the necessary steps can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Contact us today for expert advice on navigating the care home process. Our team can guide you through everything from the care needs assessment to financial planning and choosing the perfect care home to meet your needs. You can call us directly at this number: 0203 608 0055.
