It can be difficult to decide whether a care home is the right option for your loved one. There are all manner of reasons as to why it may be a good option, and for all manner of conditions too.
Old age could be the determining factor, while the likes of dementia or an accident such as a brain injury could mean that specialised care is the best option to provide them with a safe and comfortable life.
In the case of the latter, often a brain injury care facility can be the best option, and there are many homes around the area which can help, such as Valorum’s centre in Gloucester. Making that step towards moving your loved into a home can take time though and a lot of thought, particularly if you don’t have any experience of care homes.
No matter what the condition of your loved one, that can be the case, but understanding the type of care they will receive can be a good way to make that decision. So, what is a day-in-the-life of a care home resident actually like?
Morning
7:00 AM – Wake-Up and Personal Care:
Typically, the day begins with residents waking up at around 7am, with care home staff assisting with morning routines such as personal hygiene, grooming, dressing and anything else that they may need help with. This is all done with dignity and respect between caregiver and resident being the highest priority.
8:00 AM – Breakfast:
Breakfast tends to be a communal affair with everyone gathering in dining rooms to have a balanced and nutritious breakfast. Staff will ensure breakfast is tailored to dietry needs of each individual and generally promote healthy ageing, while they will often get involved with conversations too, making for an engaging and friendly start to the day.
9:00 AM – Morning Activities:
Activities usually take place in the mornings. This will largely revolve around exercise and cognitive games that will not only be tailored to an individuals interest but also promote health in the mind and body. This is a key part in care and ensures that parts of a person’s mobility and mental health are well managed and maintained.
Midday:
12:00 PM – Lunch and Social Time:
As we get to lunchtime, it’s another opportunity for residents to come together and enjoy a well-balanced meal. It’s a chance to relax, chat with friends and do things like read as well as enjoy their lunch.
2:00 PM – Afternoon Activities:
Activities then kick off again in the early afternoon and can range vastly, from enjoying arts and crafts to welcoming in performers and other activities like bingo. They usually cater to various interests across the week, while it also gives residents the chance to try lots of new things too.
4:00 PM – Tea Time:
Tea is usually served in care homes at around 4pm, while also offering a small bite to eat. It’s usually a more relaxed time and eases people into the evening. For many, this is often the most enjoyable part of the day as residents generally get together and socialise, sharing stories as well as offering support to one another.
Evening:
6:00 PM – Dinner:
In most care homes, residents will have the option to choose from a menu at dinner and care staff try to make it a more restaurant-like experience. Again, you’ll find it’s a very communal experience as people begin to wind down for the evening.
7:00 PM – Evening Activities:
The day typically finishes with evening activities that offer a more gentle approach as day turns into night. Movie nights are common alongside reading groups, while some homes may also offer exercise classes to wind down with. It’s typically one of the more relaxed parts of the day ahead of winding down for bed.
Night:
9:00 PM – Wind Down and Personal Care:
Care home staff will start helping residents with nighttime routines at around 9pm, helping with any personal care to ensure they get a comfortable and restful night’s sleep.
10:00 PM – Bedtime:
Residents will then head to bed in comfortable surroundings, with staff on hand during the night should any problems arise.
Every step of the day is well-thought out and tailored to each individual’s needs, providing as much independence as possible and a lifestyle that suits their hobbies and interests. Of course, each care home will do things a little differently, and it’ll also depend on what type of support a resident needs, but you can get a good idea of what a day-in-the-life of a care home resident is, and whether it’s the right option for your loved one.
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