Advice for families

What happens during a care home assessment?

An assessment helps the home decide whether it can safely meet the person’s needs and gives families a chance to ask detailed questions.

Before admission

An assessment is about suitability, not a sales process.

The discussion normally covers personal care, mobility, medication, cognition, communication, nutrition, continence, risks, routines and current professional support.

Good assessments also consider what matters to the person: preferences, relationships, interests and what helps them feel comfortable.

Useful checklist

Questions worth asking

  • What help is needed with washing and dressing?
  • How independently can the person move?
  • What medication and health support is required?
  • Are there memory or communication difficulties?
  • What routines and preferences are important?