For families
Elderly Care Home Support Checklist
Use this to gather the facts before decisions are made under pressure. Take it with you when you visit.
1.Understand the current picture
- How is a normal day spent, and which days feel longest?
- Eating and drinking — appetite, shopping, cooking, weight change
- Mobility around the home, stairs and getting outdoors
- Medication: what, when, and who currently manages it
- Memory, orientation and mood over recent months
- Who visits, how often, and what social contact exists
2.Home safety walk-round
- Trip hazards: rugs, trailing cables, clutter on stairs
- Lighting on stairs, landings and the route to the bathroom
- Grab rails, bath or shower safety, and the toilet height
- Cooker, kettle and hot water temperature
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms tested
- Front door security, key safe and who holds a key
3.Decide what support is needed
- Companionship and outings
- Meals, shopping and light housekeeping
- Escorting to appointments
- Personal care — this needs a CQC-registered provider (or the equivalent regulator in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland)
- Overnight or live-in presence
4.Official steps worth taking
- Request a local authority needs assessment
- Request a carer's assessment for yourself
- Check eligibility for Attendance Allowance
- Speak to the GP about a medication review
- Consider Lasting Power of Attorney while capacity allows
5.Before support starts
- Involve your relative in choosing the person
- Agree days, times, duties, pay and travel in writing
- Set up a simple weekly update to the family
- Agree what to do, and who to call, if something changes
General information, not medical, legal or financial advice. Age UK, Carers UK and Citizens Advice offer free impartial guidance.
Would you rather talk it through?
Our team can help you work out what support fits your household, at no cost.
Speak to our team