How to Choose the Right Care Home for Your Loved One in Somerset
Deciding to move a loved one into a care home is a significant choice. This guide will help you navigate the options and ask the right questions to ensure you find the perfect match, whether you’re considering care homes in Somerset, residential care, dementia care, nursing care or respite care.
Key Questions to Ask When Choosing a Care Home
1. What Level of Care Do They Really Need?
Residential care is ideal for those requiring assistance with daily living (e.g., meals, personal care).
Nursing care offers medical oversight, suitable for complex conditions or chronic illnesses.
Dementia care requires specialised, secure facilities and dementia trained staff.
Respite care provides short-term breaks, great for recovery after a hospital stay or caregiver relief.
2. What Do Regulators Say?
Check CQC ratings: Outstanding, Good, Requires Improvement or Inadequate.
Review the latest inspection report focusing on safety, staffing and care standards.
Click here to visit the CQC Care Home search
3. Does the Culture & Environment Suit Their Personality?
When choosing a Care home, look out for:
A warm, homely atmosphere that is not clinical.
Comfortable private spaces and inviting communal areas.
A broad, engaging activities programme.
Somerset Care Homes like La Fontana pride themselves on beautifully landscaped gardens, snug lounges and meaningful social interaction.
4. How Skilled and Caring are the Staff?
Ensure clear staff-to-resident ratios.
Ask about training: dementia-certified, first aid, safeguarding.
Request to talk with residents and families for honest feedback.
You can also visit Carehome.co.uk to read real reviews from real residents and family members.
5. Where Is It Located?
When looking for a care home for your loved ones, location matters for:
Family visits (proximity to towns like Martock/Taunton).
Local community events or therapies.
Quiet countryside settings, ideal for relaxation and respite.
Quick-Reference Checklist: Your Care Home Shopping List
Must ask topics and why They Matter
Level of care provided - Ensures appropriate medical and personal support
CQC rating & reports - Reflects standards in care and safety
Staff qualifications - Indicates professional expertise
Visiting & move‑in ease - Familiarity = comfort
Activities & social life - Promotes wellbeing and engagement
Cost transparency - Prevents surprise fees
Adaptability & flexibility - Keeps pace with changing needs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between residential and nursing care?
Residential care handles everyday support.
Nursing care includes round-the-clock medical attention.
Is respite care available?
Absolutely. Respite care offers temporary stays at our Somerset Care Home perfect for recovery periods or caregiver breaks. La Fontana provides structured short-term care stays.
How specialised is dementia care?
Top-tier dementia care includes secure, calming environments, personalised routines, cognitive engagement and specialist-trained staff.
Why Choose La Fontana Care Home in Somerset?
La Fontana, one of the leading Somerset Care Homes offers:
Dedicated dementia nursing with purpose-built, safe facilities on tranquil rural grounds.
Residential, nursing & respite services, meaning residents don’t have to relocate if their care needs change.
A caring, home-like environment: en-suite rooms, communal lounges, gardens and nutritious fresh meals.
Next Steps: How to Proceed
Shortlist 2–3 homes based on care needs, budget and location.
Visit in person, meet staff, chat with residents, try a meal, note cleanliness and atmosphere.
Ask precise questions: care adaptations, staff training, therapies offered.
Check CQC reports thoroughly before making decisions.
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Choosing a care home isn’t just selecting a service, it’s finding a second home. With the right questions and care, La Fontana Care Home in Somerset could be the vibrant, supportive community your loved one deserves.
Get in touch with us to arrange your personal Care Home visit.