Choosing a care home: a simple checklist

Week 1

Understand the need

Start with daily life. Can your parent wash, dress and take medicines alone? Ask them what they want.

Tip. Write down three things that matter most, such as food, language or being near family.

Week 1 to 2

Search and shortlist

Search by the pincode close to the people who will visit most. A shortlist of three to five homes is plenty.

Tip. Read the newest family reviews first.

Week 2 to 4

Visit and ask

Notice how staff speak to residents, and ask what happens at night.

Tip. Take your parent on the second visit, not the first.

Week 4 to 6

Decide and settle in

Ask for the fee, deposit and notice period in writing.

Tip. Visit often in the first weeks.

Your checklist