General Questions
What questions should I ask when deciding if Marian House is the right care home for the elderly person I’m enquiring about?
Location
Is the location easily accessible and convenient for family and friends to visit?
Are there nearby shops, public transport, and amenities for convenience?
Does the surrounding area appeal to you?
Are there outdoor rest areas available?
Initial Impression
Did the staff make you feel welcome?
Were refreshments offered?
Do the present residents appear happy, creating a homely atmosphere?
Is the home well-maintained, in good repair, and clean?
Does the home have a pleasant aroma?
Bedrooms
Were you shown the actual room that you or your relative would occupy?
Can residents personalise their rooms with their furniture and possessions?
Is the room tastefully decorated?
Does the room have an en-suite facility?
Are there provisions for a television and telephone connection?
Can residents lock their rooms if desired or necessary?
Is there flexibility to move to another room if the offered one doesn’t suit?
Care
Does the home provide the required level of care for you or your relative’s needs?
Is there a regular review of individual needs?
Does the home offer higher levels of care if needed in the future?
Can residents have meals at their preferred times?
Is in-room dining available if desired?
Is there a choice of menus?
Are special dietary requirements accommodated, such as vegetarian or diabetic diets?
Are snacks readily available throughout the day?
Are the menus changed regularly?
Do the cooking staff consult with residents regarding their food preferences?
Does the home offer a comprehensive range of services?
Are visiting healthcare professionals, such as dentists, chiropodists, and opticians available?
Is there regular access to a hairdresser?
Are additional services provided, such as physiotherapy and occupational therapy if required?
Are there sufficient assisted bathing facilities in the home?
Do residents have the freedom to establish their own daily routines?
Will relatives be notified if a resident falls ill and receive regular updates on their well-being?
Other Issues/Activities
Is there a quiet lounge area without a television for residents seeking a peaceful environment?
Are there safe and secure garden facilities for residents to enjoy?
Are arrangements in place to accommodate the needs of smokers?
Is there easy access for individuals with mobility challenges or those using wheelchairs?
Are there accessible toilet facilities throughout the home?
Do corridors and toilets have secure handrails?
Did the staff appear friendly and caring towards existing residents during your visit?
Is there a designated staff member responsible for each resident’s care?
What training is provided to the staff?
Is there a weekly plan of activities, and were examples shown to you during your visit?
Are residents consulted about their hobbies and interests?
Are birthdays and special events celebrated within the home?
Is exercise encouraged, and if so, what forms does it take?
Are daily newspapers available for residents?
Were there any displayed photographs of recent activities within the home?
Overall, do you feel that the specific needs of you or your relative can be met by the home you visited?