Moving a loved one into a care home can be emotionally challenging for everyone involved, especially if you’re uncertain about what to expect. That doesn’t have to be the case, though. Having a better understanding of what takes place in a care home can help make the decision, and in fact, the entire process so much easier. And, while every care home is different, here is a list of the most common practices that should apply to every setting.
It’s a safe place
Ultimately, care homes provide residents with a safe place to live. After all, people move into a care home because they can no longer live independently. Knowing that your loved one is living in a safe place, surrounded by professionals, round-the-clock, who can support them in the case of a fall, or emergency, gives relatives total peace of mind.
Companionship and socialisation
According to recent statistics, more than two million people over the age of 75 live alone, with more than a million of those revealing they can go for over a month without speaking to a friend, neighbour, or family member. Care homes give residents the chance to socialise with others regularly.
This is especially the case if care homes offer activities and events for residents, just like Oxford House. Helping to keep both the mind and body active, staff organise a programme of regular entertainment for those living at Oxford House, including professional singers, quiz nights, animal interaction sessions, and seated Zumba classes. And, with socialising a priority at Oxford House, they also encourage residents to venture out of the care home and enjoy the local area, thanks to organised pub lunches, shopping trips, and visits to watch Slough FC play.
Regular and nutritious meals
Whether it’s lack of routine, simply forgetting to eat, or a change in their medication, it’s common for older people living on their own to get dehydrated or miss a meal. But getting a wholesome meal is important, whatever age a person is. At a care home, residents are served regular, nutritious meals, bursting with all of the goodness they need.
Teams like those at Oxford House are committed to feeding their residents' homecooked meals made from scratch. Better still, any special dietary requirements are met, depending on each resident’s needs.
Wellbeing and medication support
Supporting the health and wellbeing of residents should be a priority in care homes. Not only is there a team on hand to manage and supervise the taking of any medication by residents, but care homes like Oxford House have an on-call nurse that is available 24/7. They also organise regular visits from opticians, dietitians, speech and language therapists, as well as arranging physiotherapy sessions and specialist nursing when necessary.
Find out more about Oxford House
While the values across most care homes remain the same, we appreciate that each resident is unique, with their own needs and requirements. If you are exploring the option of moving a loved one into a care home in Berkshire, then get in touch with Oxford House. Our friendly team are here to help make the process as seamlessly easy, smooth, and stress-free for everyone involved.