There are a number of ways to get information about care homes. If you have a social worker must provide information on centers.

The Commission on Quality of Care can provide detailed information on foster care and is the independent regulator responsible for regulating and improving the quality of health and adult social care services in England. The CQC is responsible for regulating and inspecting care homes and care agencies against the core standards of quality and safety. The CQC can provide a copy of your last inspection report in a specific nursing home.

It is recommended that you, a family member or friend to arrange a visit to their preferred care home to see what the facilities are and if they meet your needs. Below is a useful quick guide list of things to consider when choosing a nursing home for yourself or a family member.

Fee
Contact the municipal social assistance services to find out what they usually pay, this may vary throughout the country. Questions about fees you should consider asking include

Do you or your family is expected to make up any difference between the rates and what the Council is going to pay
What services does the job
Are there additional charges for services and facilities such as laundry, hairdressing, podiatry care, Extra, leisure activities, adult diapers, Newspapers, Toiletries

Staff
Each member of staff working at a residence in England and Wales is subject to a standard or enhanced disclosure of criminal records Bureau (CRB check). During his visit, it is important to consider the personal care home, and who will have contact with them daily. Some things to consider

Does it look like there are enough staff
Do you have time to sit and spend time with residents
Did staff treat residents with respect and dignity
Did you notice any staff member to talk to or help the residents
Can any of the employees speak their native language if not English

Accommodation
During his visit, take the opportunity to see all the facilities for use at home. Think about

Do the facilities seem well cared for
Has the house got up to date equipment to meet the needs of residents
Are the rooms available in single or shared room If shared, how intimacy is achieved
Do the rooms smelling fresh and clean
Can you have your own TV with you
Can residents have personal belongings in their rooms, such as pictures, plants and furniture
Are you allowed to bring your pet
Will you be able to have a phone in your room to make private calls

Areas

Are there different seating areas including quiet rooms
Is there a separate dining room
Is there a lot of call alarms easily accessible to alert staff if you need help

Location

Is the care home near her family and friends
Is it convenient to shops, public transport and your doctor
Is there an area for outdoor seating, if you want to

Meals

This menu is varied and interesting
Can you choose what to eat
Are residents involved in menu planning
Can you choose who to sit
Can serve additional portions if you still feel hungry
Are special diets
Do you have a choice of what and when to eat every day
Can you invite your family and friends to come and enjoy a meal with you, as you would in your home

Leisure

Are there any leisure activities organized
Can choose to take part in these activities
There will be an additional charge for leisure activities
Not being able to take part if he could not afford
Does the home meet your religious needs

General questions to ask

It will be free for people visiting at any time, as it would be capable of if they lived in your home
Residents have the opportunity to participate in making decisions about life in general at home
There is a residents' committee
Can participate in planning and reviewing their own care

Do you have all the information you need

Did they explain their costs and charges properly
If you will pay for the proper care, they were willing to give a copy of their contract blank so you can see after your visit
If you trust that allows you to meet and talk with current residents and their families
Do you ask many questions about you - your likes and dislikes
Did you feel that would be living life the way you choose rather than having to fit into your routine
Do they look happy to answer all your questions

You should consider whether the house has a waiting list or has a current vacancy. You can ask the house if possible arrange a trial period to ensure that the house that fits and meets your needs.

Rob Osborne is co-founder and director of choosemycare.com, a website designed to help people find care and support they need. Rob has worked for several years with various council in England, helping them transform the way we provide social care services for adults.