The groundwork

When you decide a care home might be the best solution to meet the needs of your loved one, this will be the first of many tough decisions. This is the time for research, the more thorough you are, the better.

• Search the internet to find care homes in your area. The local paper is a good place to start, as many homes advertise.
• Ask your local GP for recommendations, as well as friends and family. Word of mouth is powerful - a great home will have a good reputation.
• Call each home and visit their website to gather information, plus order a brochure.
• Broach the subject about finding a care home with your loved one. Keep them involved in the decision-making process.