How to Choose A Care Home
Are you wondering ‘How to choose a Care Home? It’s not an easy decision to make, another chapter in your life!
We would like to help you make the right move to a residential care home. Feel free to call and discuss all your concerns; we will listen, help you feel reassured and hopefully help you source the right home.
Questions to Ask When Choosing a Care Home
Here is a checklist that may help you decide how to choose a care home:
Check that the home can provide the type of care that is required
Check that the home can provide the type of care that is required. Residential or Nursing? When you find a home explain the reason for care and I am sure you will be pointed in the right direction. Swarthmore provides residential care, residential dementia and respite.
Discuss all aspects of care such as assistance with showering and dressing, maintaining a nutritional diet and even companionship. Loneliness is one of the biggest contenders for our mental wellbeing. When day to day chores become too much, it’s time to talk to someone and look at all the options available to you. Make a list so you are prepared when you make that call or visit in person.
Enquire to be able to see the rooms
It makes sense to enquire if rooms are available; you may want to go on a waiting list if it isn’t urgent. You can still organise a viewing, to give you an idea for the future.
Can the residents be assisted?
Make sure that residents can be assisted almost instantly when they’re in need. At Swarthmore Residential care home, residents are given reassurance with 24/7 care. Each resident is ask to wear a pendant so they can call for assistance at any time of day or night.
The home is equipped with a nurse call system so staff can see who is seeking assistance and attend to their needs. Reassurance is key for everyone; the main benefit of care in a home is knowing that care is available 24/7.
Are the buildings and grounds well maintained?
Is there an accessible garden or outdoor area to enjoy the outdoors?
Does the home feel inviting?
Is the home clean, warm and fresh smelling?
Research reviews about the home
You can view our reviews on our website or on Swarthmore Residential Care Home, 31 Marsham Lane, Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire SL9 8HB
What facilities are nearby?
Are there nearby facilities such as shops, places of worship, bus routes or easy access to main roads for people to visit?
Are the staff welcoming and show interest in other residents?
All residents at Swarthmore have a key worker, they will become the initial point of contact for family and friends. All our staff undergo an induction programme which consists of a 4-day theory and a minimum of 5 days’ practical supervision. Swarthmore encourages and assists staff to obtain formal qualifications. Everyone is given the opportunity to gain a QCF qualification in Health & Social care at levels 2 and 3.
Activities at Swarthmore Care Home, Buckinghamshire
Here at Swarthmore, our Activities Coordinator provides activities twice a day, morning and afternoon. Our monthly schedule will give you an example of the type of activities we carry out – Activities at Our Senior Care Home.
We have days out and entertainment that comes into the home. For anyone who cannot leave their room, Ann Marie will spend time with residents – maybe fulfilling a lifetime hobby. Time to make new friends; a friendly chat to put the world to rights!
What are the visiting times?
View your contract
We will provide a copy of our contract which includes all our policies, fees and brochure. If you are looking for respite, we accept a minimum stay of 2 weeks.
Find out what types of rooms are available
Swarthmore has three types of rooms. A standard room that has a vanity sink and use of communal bathrooms/toilets. A Classic room may have a partial or full ensuite. Premium rooms have a full ensuite with views or access to our glorious garden. We have a lounge, quiet room with library, activities area and dining room. Stunning gardens to enjoy throughout the seasons.
All rooms are furnished, we recommend you bring a few belongings to make your room feel homely; creature comforts. When you are comfortable and happy with your stay as a permanent resident, you are welcome to bring items of furniture from your home that you would like in your room. We will assist with hanging your pictures on walls. If you wish to organise a telephone line or Sky TV to your room, please inform us. We provide most furniture items in your room; your items make it your personal space.
Find out how your care needs are assessed
How do we assess new residents’ needs or situation when they move into the home?
An initial assessment will take place once you are settled in your room. We will also carry out vital observations which consist of blood pressure check, temperature, pulse, weight, oxygen levels where necessary. Building a dialogue about you helps us understand your routine, likes and dislikes, family members – a bit of a life story. This will help you settle in as all staff get to know you. There may be occasions when other medical professions need to make assessments.
Are there any additional services?
Additional services such as a chiropodist and hairdresser are available at an extra cost.
Find out about the food available
We encourage residents to eat with other residents in our dining room for their main meal of the day. We also respect that some residents may want to eat alone in their rooms. If you wish to see an example of our menu follow the link.
All dietary requirements are catered for. Morning coffee/tea is served, along with an afternoon tea. You may also request snacks/drinks during the evening. We have a team on site who prepare and cook fresh food daily.
Find out what social activities there are
We have regular exercise classes during activities. We have a visiting Pet Therapy dog called ‘Thula’. She visits on a weekly basis and expects treats!
Arrange a visit
To arrange a viewing or discussion please call 01753 885663, Option 1- speak with Sally