Choosing a nursing home for a family member is one of the most important and delicate decisions a family can face. It is not just a matter of evaluating facilities or prices, but of ensuring that the chosen centre provides the medical, emotional and spiritual care that the person needs.
In this guide produced by the Angelic Sisters, we offer you a practical checklist with the main aspects to consider when taking the step of entrusting your relative to a care home.
- Medical attention and professional care
- Verify that the residence has specialised healthcare personnel (doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, psychologists).
- Check whether it offers individualised care plans tailored to each resident’s state of health.
- Ensure that they have emergency protocols, supervised medication, and regular medical monitoring.
- Facilities and accessibility
- Adapted and accessible rooms (single or shared, with adapted bathrooms). In the case of the Angelic Sisters, we ensure that all our residents bring their home, literally, to their new room. This way, they have their own furniture and most cherished belongings with them. They feel right at home!
- Spacious and bright common areas that encourage socialising.
- Safe outdoor areas for walking and enjoying the fresh air.
- Emotional and social care
- Programmes of socio-cultural activities that promote socialisation and cognitive stimulation.
- Psychological support to prevent loneliness and depression.
- Possibility of maintaining fluid contact with families.
- Spiritual dimension
- Ask whether the centre offers spiritual or religious support, spaces for prayer or celebration.
- Spiritual care is especially important for many older people because it brings serenity, meaning and companionship.
- Transparency and trust
- Review the contract and ensure that the costs are clearly detailed (what is included and what is not).
- Check out reviews from other families and request a visit to the centre before making your decision.
- Consider geographical proximity so that visits are frequent and easy.
- Signs that you are in the right place
- Staff address residents by name and in a friendly manner.
- There is a warm, friendly and respectful atmosphere.
- The residence conveys confidence and peace to the family from the very first contact.
Ultimately, choosing the right care home for a loved one is a step that requires careful consideration and support. It is not just a matter of meeting basic needs, but of ensuring an environment where the person feels cared for, respected and supported in all aspects of their life: medical, emotional, social and spiritual.
In our residences, the Angelic Sisters work to ensure that every woman finds a home filled with dignity and comprehensive care., because we believe that true service consists of caring for both the body and the heart. You can find out more details about our residences here