How to Ensure Top-Quality Healthcare for Your Loved One in a Care Home

When choosing a care home for your loved one, healthcare is usually at the top of the checklist. After all, you want to know they’ll be in safe hands, receiving the right care for their needs. But what exactly should you expect when it comes to healthcare in care homes?

Whether your loved one needs regular medical assessments, specialised nursing care or emotional support, this article will discuss what healthcare services are offered in care homes and help you make an informed decision.

In More Detail

Medical Assessments

Regular health check-ups are standard in care homes. Some homes (specifically nursing homes) have in-house GPs and nurses, but most have close ties with local doctor surgeries to track vital signs or manage chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease. Trained staff monitor residents’ health to catch any issues early and provide prompt care.

Managing Medication

Proper medication management is crucial for residents with multiple prescriptions. Trained care home staff can efficiently and safely handle and administer medicines, track side effects and make sure prescriptions are kept up to date in collaboration with doctors.

Nursing Care

Care homes with skilled nursing teams provide 24/7 support for residents with more complex medical needs. This could include wound care, injections or specialised care for conditions like dementia, all aimed at maintaining residents’ health and comfort.

Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy

Many care homes help elderly residents maintain mobility and independence. Physical therapy gently improves strength and movement, while occupational and speech therapy focuses on daily tasks and communication challenges.

Mental Health and Emotional Support

Mental health is important for all ages, especially in a care home setting. Care staff prioritise keeping residents engaged and emotionally healthy on a day-to-day basis, but there is support from counsellors or psychologists for those who need specialised help. Those with dementia or Alzheimer’s also receive specialised cognitive care.

Palliative Care

Specialised palliative care ensures comfort and dignity for residents nearing the end of life. Focusing on pain relief and emotional support, staff can be tremendously helpful to residents and their families during this sensitive time.

5 Key Questions to Ask About Healthcare Services in Care Homes

Choosing a care home based on healthcare services is just as important as location and facilities. Here are some questions to keep in mind when evaluating the level of healthcare in a care home:

#1. How Qualified are the Staff?

The quality of care depends on the staff’s expertise. Are the nurses and carers trained to handle specific medical needs like dementia or mobility issues? Also, pay attention to the staff-to-resident ratio – more staff means more personalised attention for your loved one.

#2. How Often Are Healthcare Professionals Available On-Site?

You must determine how often healthcare professionals, like doctors or specialists, are on-site or available. Is there a doctor on call? How frequently do specialists like physiotherapists or mental health professionals visit? Consistent access can make a big difference in the quality of care.

#3. Are Customised Care Plans Available?

Care should never be one-size-fits-all. Ask how the care home creates and updates personalised care plans. Please note that these plans should be consistently reviewed and adapted to health or medical conditions changes.

#4. How are Medical Emergencies Handled?

In the unfortunate event of a medical emergency, you’ll want to know what’s happening as soon as possible and that your loved one is in capable hands. Check the care home’s emergency procedures – how quickly can they respond? Do they have the right equipment, and are staff trained in emergency care? Knowing how they handle these situations will help you feel reassured.

#5. How Will I Be Kept Informed About My Loved One’s Health?

Open communication is vital. Ensure the care home keeps families updated about health changes, care plans and medical treatments. Do they organise regular meetings, and will you have direct access to a care home contact? Regular updates will give you peace of mind and involve you in important decisions regarding your loved one’s care.

Ensuring the Best Healthcare for Your Loved One

Choosing a care home with excellent healthcare services should be a priority. You can ensure your loved one receives the best possible support by asking the right questions and fully understanding the care provided. Remember, the quality of care directly impacts their well-being, so don’t hesitate to dig deep and get the answers you need. Because your loved one deserves nothing less than the highest quality of care in their new home.