As our loved ones age and their needs change, the quest for quality care becomes a priority, and navigating this landscape can be quite a challenge. In this guide, we will look at how to choose a care home for your relative by considering the differences between care and nursing homes and why picking the perfect place is crucial for peace of mind. With four award-winning homes in stunning locations across Devon, Southern Healthcare is dedicated to delivering the absolute best in nursing and care and has accommodation to suit everyone.
Types of Care Homes
1. Residential Retreats: These homes provide a cosy place that feels like home, where your loved ones get a bit of extra help with daily life. Parkwood House in Plymouth is a gracious Georgian building situated close to the city centre. The home provides nursing care along with comfortable living spaces, delicious meals, and a helping hand when needed. When considering how to choose a care home, it would be wise to consider which awards and accolades an establishment may have collected over the years. Parkwood House, for example, has won numerous awards and staff are highly trained in delivering person-centered care. In common with the other homes in the Southern Healthcare group, Parkwood has a strong focus on the Eden Alternative, a pioneering approach to care of the elderly with an emphasis on reducing feelings of loneliness, boredom and helplessness in later life.
2. Nurturing Nursing Homes; For those who need a bit more TLC, nursing homes step in. With 24/7 care from specialist nursing teams, these homes are like a warm embrace for those with complex health needs. The Old Rectory in Exeter is an attractive Victorian building, incorporating a specialist Dementia wing. The home has large communal areas and extensive gardens. Staff members are dedicated to enhancing the well-being of residents.
3 Situated just a stone’s throw from the seafront, The Seaton is a true home-from-home which is very much at the heart of the local community. The home offers a high standard of general nursing, Dementia, and residential care, including respite and rehabilitation both for older people and younger adults.
4 Dementia-Friendly Dwellings; Imagine a place designed with extra love and care for those facing the challenges of Dementia. These homes are not just safe havens; they are communities where understanding and support thrive. Conveniently situated close to the town centre and sea front in Dawlish, Sefton Hall has the Cedar Suite, a dedicated suite of rooms for the home’s Dementia community. In addition, Sefton’s extensive grounds also contain a delightful ‘village’ complete with a mock church, tearoom and bar.
Tips for Choosing a Care Home
1. Location; Think about where the care home is – it is like picking a neighbourhood. Being close to family and friends can make all the difference and bring that extra sprinkle of joy.
2. Word on the Street; Chat with other families, read reviews, and have a coffee catch-up with residents and staff. A care home with a thumbs-up from the community is like finding a hidden gem.
3. Superstar Staff; Meet the people who make the magic happen – the staff! Ask about their training and qualifications. It is like getting to know the cast before settling in for a great show. At Southern Healthcare, we are proud to have members of staff who have been with us for decades and we would not be without them!
4. Facilities; Check out what is on offer in terms of activities and amenities. A care home that feels like a vibrant community with engaging activities is a winner! Southern Healthcare goes the extra mile with an imaginative, year-round programme of activities in all the homes and trips further afield on the company’s minibus. In addition, our Managing Director, Geoffrey Cox, regularly tours the homes to provide a range of musical entertainment with Southern Healthcare’s very own house band.
Choosing a care home is a little like finding the perfect spot for a cosy get-together. It takes a bit of research, but also a heartfelt approach. As inevitably, we will all become a part of this growing care community in the UK, let us at Southern Healthcare help to ensure your loved ones are not just cared for but embraced with warmth and kindness in their golden years.