Finding the Right Care Home in Canterbury: A 5-Minute Guide for Families

Choosing a care home for a loved one is a significant decision, often filled with a mix of emotions like concern, love, and a desire to make the best choice possible. It's also a practical matter, as you'll want to ensure the care home you choose can meet your loved one's specific needs and provide a supportive, enriching environment.

Here at Lark View Care Home, nestled in the heart of Kent countryside, we understand the challenges families face during this process. This short guide aims to empower you with the right questions to ask, factors to consider, and insights into what makes a care home feel like a welcoming and comfortable second home for your loved one.

Care Services: Matching Needs with Expertise

Don't be afraid to ask if a care home specialises in the type of care your loved one needs. For example, if they're living with dementia, ask about memory care units and the training staff have in dementia-specific techniques. If medical needs are complex, ensure they offer 24/7 nursing care. Lark View provides a wide range of care options, including dementia care, to cater to varying needs.

Beyond the type of care, understand the level of support offered. Does the home assist with daily living activities like bathing and dressing? How do they handle medication management? Be specific about your loved one's needs to ensure the home can meet them.

Staffing

A lower staff-to-resident ratio generally means more individualised attention. Ask about staffing levels during different shifts to ensure consistent care. Find out what qualifications the care staff hold. Are there registered nurses on-site 24/7? Do staff receive ongoing training in areas like dementia care, first aid, or palliative care?

High turnover can be disruptive. Ask about the average length of time staff have been with the care home. Lark View's dedicated team, with their commitment to building relationships, often stay for years, ensuring continuity of care for our residents.

Personalised Care Plans

How does the home assess a new resident's needs and preferences? Do they involve the family in this process? Ask to see a sample care plan to understand how detailed and person-centred it is. Lark View takes pride in our comprehensive assessments, where we not only document medical needs but also delve into individual interests, life stories, and cultural backgrounds to create truly personalised care.

How often is the care plan reviewed and updated? Life changes, and so do needs. Ensure the home has a process to adapt care plans accordingly.

Activities & Social Engagement

Look beyond bingo. Does the home offer a diverse range of activities that appeal to different interests – creative, social, intellectual, and spiritual? At Lark View, we offer a wide array of in-house facilities and activities tailored to individual preferences, promoting social interaction and mental stimulation.

Can activities be modified for those with physical or cognitive limitations? This is especially important for residents with dementia, where flexibility and creativity are key to engagement. Does the care home organise outings to local attractions in Canterbury? Are there opportunities for intergenerational interaction?

Meals and Dining

Ask about the types of meals offered and how dietary restrictions are handled. Are meals prepared fresh on-site? Observe the dining area. Is it clean and inviting? Do residents seem to enjoy mealtimes? Can residents choose their meals? Is in-room dining available if needed?

Accommodation

Understand the different room options (private, shared, studio, etc.) and if ensuite bathrooms are available. Lark View offers a range of cosy and comfortable rooms with en-suite facilities for maximum privacy and independence. Can residents bring their own furniture and belongings? This can help them feel more at home in their new environment.

Tour the rooms and common areas. Do they appear clean and well-maintained? This reflects the overall quality of care.

Safety and Security

Inquire about safety features like secure entrances, call bells in rooms, and protocols for emergencies. Lark View, set in a peaceful residential area, prioritises resident safety while also providing access to beautiful views of the Kent countryside.

Family Involvement

How often does the care home update families on their loved one's well-being? Are there regular opportunities for communication? At Lark View, we believe in open communication and prioritise building strong relationships with residents' families. Are families involved in care planning decisions? Does the care home offer support groups or resources for families of residents with dementia?

Cost

Get a clear breakdown of fees, including what's covered (accommodation, meals, care) and what might be an additional cost. Lark View's all-inclusive model ensures transparency and eliminates unexpected expenses. If your loved one has limited resources, inquire about potential financial aid or options for local authority funding in Canterbury.

Reputation and Reviews

Read online reviews from other families. Note recurring themes – are they positive, negative, or mixed? Ask friends, family, or healthcare professionals for recommendations. Word-of-mouth can be invaluable. If possible, talk to those who live in or have loved ones at the care home. Their experiences can offer valuable insights.

The Lark View Difference

At Lark View Care Home in Canterbury, we believe that choosing a care home is more than just finding a place to live; it's about finding a community where your loved one feels seen, valued, and empowered to live a full and meaningful life.

Our dedicated team, person-centred care approach, and focus on having a warm and supportive environment set us apart. We invite you to visit us and see for yourself why so many families choose Lark View as their loved one's home.