Moving a loved one into a care home represents one of the most significant transitions families can face.
This guide walks through the essential steps of managing care home transitions in London, helping families navigate this emotional journey with practical solutions.
Before the Move
- Research potential care homes thoroughly
- Check CQC ratings and inspection reports
- Visit multiple homes during different times
- Speak with current residents and their families
- Financial planning
- Understand weekly fees (£800-£1500+ in London)
- Check eligibility for NHS continuing healthcare
- Explore local authority funding options
Practical Moving Tips
Start downsizing belongings at least 4-6 weeks before the planned move date.
Create a floor plan of the new room to determine what furniture will fit.
| Essential Items | Optional Comfort Items |
|---|---|
|
– Clothes for 7-10 days – Toiletries – Medications |
– Family photos – Favorite blanket – Small decorative items |
Moving Day Checklist
- Pack a first-day box with immediate essentials
- Label all belongings clearly
- Complete all paperwork with care home staff
- Set up the room before leaving
Professional Help Available
Consider hiring specialist senior moving services in London who understand care home transitions:
- Senior Move Partnership: 020 7118 0271
- The Senior Move Partnership: 0800 048 4668
- Age UK London: 020 7820 6770
Emotional Support
Schedule regular visits during the first few weeks to help with adjustment.
Connect with care home staff to establish good communication channels.
Legal Considerations
- Update address details with relevant authorities
- Review and update power of attorney if needed
- Ensure care home contract is thoroughly reviewed
Keep copies of all important documents in an easily accessible file.
Useful Resources
- Age UK London – Support and advice
- Care Quality Commission – Care home ratings
- NHS Care Guide – Healthcare funding information
Contact your local council’s adult social services department for additional support and guidance during this transition.
After the Move
First Month Support
- Monitor adjustment progress
- Keep daily communication with staff
- Note any concerns or changes in behavior
- Attend care plan reviews
- Establish routines
- Create a visiting schedule
- Plan regular activities
- Set up video calls with family members
Ongoing Care Management
Regular reviews of care plans and needs assessment every 3-6 months.
| Regular Reviews | When to Request Extra Reviews |
|---|---|
|
– Care plan updates – Medication changes – Social activities participation |
– Health changes – Mobility issues – Behavioral concerns |
Building Community
- Encourage participation in home activities
- Connect with other residents’ families
- Join care home family forums
Conclusion
Successful care home transitions require careful planning, emotional support, and ongoing involvement. While challenging, proper preparation and support networks can help create a positive experience for both residents and families.
Remember that adjustment periods vary for each individual, and maintaining regular communication with care home staff is crucial for ensuring the best possible care and quality of life.
- Keep all documentation organized
- Maintain open dialogue with care providers
- Stay involved in care decisions
- Seek support when needed
FAQs
- What is the typical timeline for transitioning an elderly person into a care home?
The process typically takes 4-6 weeks from initial assessment to move-in, though it can be expedited in urgent situations to as little as 1-2 weeks. - Which documents are required when moving into a care home in London?
Essential documents include NHS number, proof of identity, power of attorney papers if applicable, medical history, current medication list, and funding documentation or financial assessment papers. - How much does care home accommodation typically cost in London?
Care home costs in London average £1,000-£1,500 per week for residential care and £1,200-£2,000 per week for nursing care, with variations based on location and services provided. - What financial assistance is available for care home costs in London?
Residents may be eligible for local authority funding, NHS Continuing Healthcare funding, Attendance Allowance, and Funded Nursing Care contribution, depending on their financial and medical circumstances. - What items should residents bring when moving to a care home?
Essential items include clothing, toiletries, personal care items, mobility aids, medication, important documents, personal mementos, and small furniture pieces (if permitted by the facility). - How can families ensure a smooth transition during the move?
Families should visit the care home multiple times beforehand, create a detailed moving checklist, label all personal items, arrange a gradual transition if possible, and maintain regular communication with staff. - What assessment processes are required before moving into a care home?
Assessments include a care needs assessment from the local authority, a financial assessment, and a specific care home assessment to ensure they can meet the resident’s needs. - Can residents keep their own GP after moving to a care home?
This depends on the care home’s location relative to the GP practice. If the care home is outside the GP’s catchment area, residents will need to register with a local GP practice. - What are the visiting policies in London care homes?
Most London care homes have flexible visiting hours, though specific times may be recommended. Current visiting policies must comply with NHS and government health and safety guidelines. - What happens to a resident’s property and possessions after moving to a care home?
Residents or their families are responsible for managing their property, whether selling, renting, or maintaining it. The care home will maintain an inventory of possessions brought into the facility.