What to Look for in a Care Home: The Essentials You Can’t Ignore

A care home might look great online, but nothing compares to seeing it for yourself.

But what exactly should you be looking for?

It’s easy to get swept up in first impressions, so having a checklist can help you focus on what really matters. From staff attitudes to food quality and cleanliness to activities, this article will walk you through the main things to look for when visiting a care home – so you can make the best choice for your loved one.

Cleanliness, Safety and Overall Maintenance

When you walk into the care home, does it smell fresh? A care home won’t always be completely spotless, but lingering unpleasant odours can signal poor hygiene.

Look for clear safety measures, such as handrails, non-slip flooring and good lighting. If your loved one has mobility issues, check that hallways and communal areas are easy to navigate. Ask about falls, like how often they happen and how they are handled. If dementia care is needed, check security – are exits monitored and is there a safe outdoor space?

Resident rooms and bathrooms should be clean and well-maintained, with grab rails and emergency call buttons in place. Staff should be confident in handling medical emergencies. Ask about their procedures.

Staff Interactions and Resident Well-Being

Do carers seem kind, patient and engaged or are they rushed and dismissive? Watch how they speak to residents. Do they use warm, respectful tones and take the time to listen? A suitable care home feels like a community, not just a workplace.

Pay attention to the residents too. Do they look well cared for? Are they engaged in activities, chatting with staff or sitting alone looking disengaged? An excellent care home encourages social interaction and respects all residents’ independence and personal preferences.

Are staff fully trained in best care practices and are some trained in dementia and end-of-life care?

Staffing levels matter. If carers seem overstretched, it could mean residents aren’t getting the attention they need. Ask about staff-to-resident ratios and whether night shifts have enough cover. Consistency is also key – do residents see the same familiar faces each day, or is there a constant turnover of staff? Familiarity is important for well-being, especially for those living with dementia.

Care Home Food and Nutrition

Food is a massive part of daily life, so don’t overlook it when visiting a care home. Ask for a menu to see if meals are varied, nutritious, appetising – or bland and repetitive. If possible, try a meal yourself. Would you be happy eating it every day?

Check if residents have choice and flexibility. Can they eat when hungry or is it strictly set at mealtimes? Are dietary needs catered to, such as allergies and diabetes or softer foods for those with difficulty chewing and swallowing? Choose a care home with personalised meals rather than offering a one-size-fits-all approach.

Also, look at the dining experience. Are residents eating together, chatting and enjoying their food or is everyone eating in silence? A positive dining atmosphere encourages social interaction, which is just as important as the food itself. If a resident prefers to eat in their room, is that respected?

If the meals look unappetising, residents seem disengaged at mealtimes or there’s hardly any flexibility in what’s offered, it could be a red flag.

Does It Feel Like Home?

A care home should feel alive, not just like a place where people are looked after. So, when you visit a care home, does it feel warm, welcoming and full of energy? This is what your loved one needs, not a building that is quiet, clinical and lifeless.

Look around. Are residents engaged in activities, talking or just sitting doing nothing? A premium care home will have a lively mix of things to do, from music sessions to arts and crafts, gentle exercise and social events. Check the activity schedule – is it varied or is it the same old bingo and TV routine every week?

Outdoor space is another big one – does the home have a safe, accessible garden or patio where residents can get fresh air? Being stuck indoors all the time isn’t great for anyone’s well-being.

At the end of the day, a care home should feel like a community. If it seems dull, lonely or like there’s not much happening, it might not be the right place for your loved one.

Are Family Members Kept in the Loop?

Choosing a care home doesn’t mean handing over all responsibility. You still want to feel involved in your loved one’s care. So, when you visit, ask if this home welcomes families or does it feel like they’d rather you stay out of the way.

You should find a care home that encourages family visits, making you feel like part of the community. Are visiting hours flexible? The best homes know that staying connected to family is important for residents’ happiness.

How does the home keep families updated? Will they contact you about changes in your loved one’s health or care plan? Are they happy to answer questions or seem defensive when you ask? A well-run home will be open, honest and proactive about keeping you informed.

Also, ask about how they handle feedback or concerns. A care home that values families will have a clear, transparent complaints process – and they won’t be afraid to talk about it.
If a home makes family involvement difficult, you should avoid it. You want a place where communication is open, visits are encouraged and your input is valued.

Take Your Time – The Right Choice Matters

Choosing a care home isn’t a decision to rush through. A visit gives you the clearest picture of what life is actually like for residents. Pay attention to the details, ask plenty of questions and, most importantly, trust your instincts. The right care home will be where your loved one feels safe, comfortable and happy every day.