Making the decision to move an elderly loved one into a care home is never easy. It can feel emotional, overwhelming, and full of questions but the process doesn’t have to be confusing. Understanding the steps involved can help families make informed decisions that support the wellbeing, safety, and comfort of the person needing care.
At Fairfield House, we support families every day as they navigate this journey. Below, we’ve outlined a clear, simple guide to help you understand how to get an elderly person into a care home, the assessments you’ll need, and what to expect.
1. Recognise When a Care Home May Be Needed
A care home may become the safest and most supportive option when:
- Daily tasks such as washing, dressing, or cooking become difficult
- A person becomes increasingly isolated
- There are concerns about safety at home
- Existing carers are struggling to cope
- There have been falls, confusion, or changes in health
- A respite stay has shown that residential care improves wellbeing
If you’re unsure, your GP or local authority can guide you.
2. Request a Care Needs Assessment
The first official step is to contact your local council and request a Care Needs Assessment.
This is free, regardless of income.
A social worker or assessor will visit the elderly person to understand:
- Their health
- Daily living needs
- Mobility
- Safety at home
- Levels of support required
The assessment will recommend whether residential care is appropriate.
3. Get a Financial Assessment (Means Test)
If the needs assessment recommends a care home, the next step is a financial assessment.
This determines whether the local authority will:
- Fully fund the care
- Partially fund the care
- Ask the individual to self-fund their place
The outcome is based on income, savings, and assets.
Important:
You can still choose any care home you prefer, even if the council is contributing as long as it meets needs and fits the budget.
4. Research and Visit Care Homes
Choosing the right home is essential for peace of mind. When researching, look for:
- A warm, welcoming environment
- Experienced, compassionate staff
- A genuine sense of community
- Clear communication with families
- Activities and social engagement
- Clean, comfortable rooms
- Good CQC ratings
At Fairfield House, we invite families to visit, meet the team, and tour our home to ensure it feels right.
5. Arrange a Pre-Admission Assessment
Before moving in, the care home will carry out a pre-admission assessment.
This ensures the home can meet the resident’s needs safely and appropriately.
At Fairfield House, this can take place:
- In the person’s own home
- At hospital
- Or at Fairfield House itself
We take the time to understand personal preferences, routines, medical needs, and any concerns.
6. Consider a Trial Stay
A short-term or respite stay is an excellent way to ease the transition.
It allows the elderly person to:
- Experience life in the home
- Meet staff and residents
- Build confidence
- Adjust gradually
Many long-term residents at Fairfield House first joined us through a trial stay.
7. Agree a Move-In Date and Care Plan
Once assessments are complete and the home has been chosen:
- A moving-in date is arranged
- A personalised care plan is created
- Medication and health records are transferred
- Families are supported every step of the way
Our team works closely with relatives to make the transition as smooth and reassuring as possible.
8. Support the Emotional Transition
Moving into a care home is a major change. Families can help by:
- Visiting regularly
- Bringing familiar items from home
- Encouraging participation in activities
- Staying patient during the adjustment period
Most residents settle quickly once they feel the routine, comfort, and community around them.
Why Families Choose Fairfield House
Fairfield House offers:
- A beautifully converted early Victorian mansion with character, charm, and a welcoming feel
- All rooms with beautiful views, from panoramic vistas across Lyme Bay to peaceful garden outlooks
- Ground-floor rooms with direct garden and courtyard access, perfect for enjoying fresh air and sunny afternoons
- Warm, homely lounges and comfortable dining areas, designed for relaxation, socialising, and a true sense of community
- Friendly, long-standing staff who build meaningful relationships with residents and families
- Personalised 24/7 care tailored to each individual’s needs, routines, and preferences
- Delicious home-cooked food prepared with care and served in comforting, sociable spaces
- A warm, family-like atmosphere where residents feel valued, supported, and at home
- Trial stays and respite care options to help ease transitions or give carers a well-deserved break
- Transparent pricing and guidance throughout every step of the process
If you’re considering a care home for a loved one, we’re here to help every step of the way.
📞 Call us on 01297 443 513
📧 Email us – we’d love to hear from you.
