It is a fact that the world’s population is aging. It is predicted that in the UK alone, the number of people aged 85 years and over will double to 2.6 million within twenty-five years. This aging population has been driven by society having access to improved healthcare facilities and a greater awareness of the need to have a healthy diet and lifestyle while avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Longer life expectancies have, in turn, created a greater need for healthcare facilities such as nursing and care homes that can provide elderly residents with the services, treatments, and assistance they need in later life.
A well-run care home is an establishment that offers elderly residents a high standard of living free of undue restrictions on their day-to-day activities while also allowing them to receive high-quality healthcare for any problems or illnesses they may suffer from. This article explains three key traits of a well-run care home.
Well-stocked medical supplies
It should be recognized that elderly residents in a care home will have a range of health needs and, as a result, will require specialist care home supplies. A well-run care home will recognize that no two residents are the same, and they will need a range of equipment to assist them with varying levels of mobility. These can range from wheelchairs to mobility scooters or walking frames. In addition, devices that seek to improve the safety of residents when bathing or undertaking personal hygiene routines should be present. Toilet aids and commodes may be required, along with rails for making showers and baths safer for residents who may be at risk of slips or falls when washing.
A range of activities on offer
It is important to remember that elderly residents will still need activities that keep their brains active. These can be just as important for the health and well-being of residents as good quality meals and a safe environment in which to live. Having access to a small library of books, along with social activities such as staff-run bingo games, are two ways in which elderly residents can stay mentally active. A well-run care home may even offer artistic programs such as painting or drawing, along with a gentle program of exercises for residents that seek to keep their mobility and fitness at a good level.
A place that residents are happy to be in
A final point, and one that is a key determinant of a well-run care home, is how happy the residents are to be there. If residents are satisfied with the care provided by staff members, the general environment, the facilities on offer, and the quality of food and drinks, these combine to give a generally positive picture of the care home from their viewpoint. Clearly, it is important for elderly relatives to be in a safe and enjoyable environment so that they can live out their later years in comfort and contentment. In addition, a care home that listens to the views and opinions of its residents and acts on the feedback received to improve the care facility is one that demonstrates how well-run it is.
