Dementia Support

06-May

A guide to choosing the right dementia care home

Finding the right dementia care home for a loved one is one of the most important and emotional decisions you’ll make. Dementia affects each person differently, and the right environment can make a huge difference to their comfort, confidence, and quality of life.

A good dementia care home should offer more than just support – it should create a safe, familiar, and enriching environment where residents feel secure, valued, and connected to those around them. But with so many options, how do you know what to look for?

This guide will help you understand what to prioritise when choosing a dementia care home, with a practical checklist to help you compare your options.

What makes a good dementia care home?

Dementia-friendly care homes are designed to help residents feel at ease, maintain independence, and engage with the world around them. While every care home will provide basic support, the best ones focus on personalised care, meaningful engagement, and specialist environments that actively improve wellbeing.

Here’s what to look for when visiting potential homes:

A warm and welcoming atmosphere

Does the home feel comfortable and inviting? Do staff engage warmly with residents? Are there familiar, homely touches like books, photos, and soft furnishings.

Compassionate, specialist-trained staff

Are carers trained specifically in dementia care? Do they understand the importance of patience, clear communication, and emotional support?

Personalised care plans

Is care tailored to individual preferences, routines, and interests? Do staff take time to get to know each resident’s history, likes, and dislikes?

A well-designed environment

Does the home follow dementia-friendly design principles? Look for clear signage, colour-coded areas, and easy-to-navigate layouts to reduce confusion and anxiety.

Sensory and engaging spaces

Are there gardens, activity areas, and sensory features designed to encourage stimulation and relaxation? Are residents encouraged to enjoy the outdoors safely?

Structured activities and meaningful engagement

Does the home provide dementia-friendly activities such as reminiscence therapy, music, gentle exercise, or creative workshops? Are residents supported to engage at their own pace?

Support for independence

Are residents encouraged to do as much for themselves as possible? Does the home offer small but meaningful ways to maintain a sense of control, such as choosing meals or personalising their space?

Dementia-friendly dining experience

Are meals designed to support nutrition and independence? Does the home use adaptive cutlery, coloured plates, and easy-to-eat foods for those with reduced dexterity?

A strong focus on family involvement

Are families encouraged to visit, participate in activities, and stay connected? Does the home offer flexible visiting hours and private spaces for family time?

A reassuring, structured routine

Does the home provide a consistent daily structure that reduces anxiety while allowing flexibility for personal preferences?

A good CQC rating

Is the care home rated well by the Care Quality Commission (CQC)? While ratings don’t tell the whole story, they can give insight into staffing levels, safety, and care quality.

Questions to ask when visiting a dementia care home

When visiting potential care homes, don’t be afraid to ask questions. A good care provider will welcome open discussions and provide honest, transparent answers.

How do you personalise care for residents with dementia?
What training do your staff receive in dementia care?
How do you support residents with challenging behaviours, anxiety, or distress?
What activities and therapies do you offer?
How do you support nutrition and hydration for residents with dementia?
What safety measures are in place for residents at risk of wandering?
How do you help new residents settle in?
What involvement do families have in care planning and decisions?
Can residents stay here as their condition progresses?

Key takeaways

The best dementia care homes focus on wellbeing, independence, and comfort – not just safety.
A calm, structured environment with clear layouts, familiar objects, and sensory spaces can significantly improve quality of life.
Personalised care is key – a good home will tailor activities, routines, and support to each individual.
Look for engaging activities that promote memory, mobility, and emotional wellbeing.
Staff expertise and kindness are just as important as facilities – observe how they interact with residents.
A trial stay or respite visit can be a great way to experience life in a care home before making a long-term decision.

Dementia care at Aspen Manor

At Aspen Manor, we understand the importance of specialist, compassionate dementia care. Our dedicated dementia floor is designed following Sterling University’s dementia design principles, ensuring a safe, calming, and engaging environment for our residents.

We focus on personalised care, meaningful activities, and family involvement, helping each resident feel valued, comfortable, and connected.

If you’re looking for dementia care for a loved one, we’d love to welcome you for a visit and show you how we support our residents to live with dignity, confidence, and joy.

01572 494770 Book A Viewing Request A Brochure