What to Look for When Choosing a Private Care Home

Apr 13

Nurse helping senior man walk & other seniors are talking in the background — *Credit: Lifestylememory Via* *Freepik*

If your aging parent or grandparent is living with dementia, they may eventually require assistance with their daily living activities, making it difficult to live independently. Research has found that individuals with dementia become dependent "not only due to neurological decline, but also because of 'excess disability' rooted in stigma and demoralization, a sense of loss of autonomy and confidence, and restricted perceptions of what they can do."

In such cases, private senior care homes can offer a safe and supportive environment for seniors to thrive. But choosing the right care home can be daunting, as you want to ensure that you make the right choice. After all, the wrong private care home may further deteriorate your loved one's health. The good news is you can use the following guideline to learn what to look for when choosing a private care home to ensure your loved one receives the best care.

Quality of Care

The quality of care provided in private senior care homes is the most important factor when choosing a home. You should look for a private care home with well-trained and qualified staff experienced in caring for seniors. You can also look for accreditations and certifications that indicate the private care home has met specific standards of quality care.

If you're looking for private homes for elderly care with qualified registered nurses and trained staff, consider one of Sagecare's dementia care homes in Toronto and other parts of the GTA, and speak to a representative. Our staff members can help you understand what our homes offer and how we stand out among other private long-term care homes in Toronto. Our commitment to elevated dementia care allows us to provide the best experience for all residents. We ensure all residents are treated with kindness and respect, regardless of their physical or mental condition.

Convenient Location

One of the most important factors to consider when looking for private care homes is their location. Ideally, you should look for private homes for elderly care close to your loved one's family and friends, as this can help them maintain social connections and feel more comfortable. You should also consider the proximity to medical facilities, such as hospitals and clinics, in case of emergencies. Our private long-term care homes are located across Toronto, North York, Mississauga, Thornhill, Richmond Hill, Oakville, Burlington, Brampton, and Markham.

Facilities and Amenities

The facilities and amenities available at private care homes can significantly influence your loved one's quality of life. Look for a care home that offers a comfortable living environment with well-appointed rooms, communal areas, and outdoor spaces. Additionally, amenities such as recreational activities, libraries, and therapy services can contribute to your loved one's overall well-being.

As a nurse-led organization, Sagecare understands the value of compassionate dementia care in helping a senior with dementia age in place. Our private long-term care homes are fully equipped with the resources one needs to thrive in their environment. We ensure that each senior is continuously involved in memory-engaging activities while offering comfortable living space for seniors to interact and feel at home.

High Staffing-to-Resident Ratio

The staffing ratios of private care homes are an essential indicator of the quality of care. A good care home should have enough staff to ensure that each resident receives personalized attention and care. Sagecare is proud to have a high staffing-to-resident ratio, allowing our nurses to care for each senior and offer them the care and attention they need.

In addition, our registered nurses receive extensive clinical instruction. They use their medical knowledge to think critically, make informed decisions, and take practical steps to help seniors in our private care homes. Due to their consistent interest in learning and access to resources, they can diagnose and handle rapidly changing situations while distinguishing between emerging medical problems and evolving behavioural symptoms. Sagecare's staff members take their time understanding different dementia behaviours that allow them to assess and address any behavioural issues before they evolve.

*Credit: YuriArcursPeopleimages Via* *Freepik*

Safety & Cleanliness

Your loved one will spend most of their time in the private care home you choose, so safety and cleanliness are important in private care homes for several reasons. A clean and safe environment will prevent the spread of infections and illnesses, prevent accidents and injuries, ensure the well-being of residents, and meet regulatory standards. When assessing the safety and cleanliness in private care homes, look for sufficient lighting and clear paths around the home, including hallways and doorways, no unpleasant odours, well-groomed residents, and a protocol for infection control.

Nutritious Meal Choices

A vital factor to consider when comparing different private senior care homes is the quality of food they serve. Providing nutritious meals in private care homes is crucial for promoting the health and well-being of older adults and enhancing their quality of life.

Ask the care home what their typical menu looks like and determine if their meals are well-balanced, nutritious, and tasty. It's also important for private homes for elderly care to accommodate residents with health problems and have different food options. For example, an individual's diet with no significant health concerns may look different from one with a heart problem or diabetes. At Sagecare, our staff members monitor residents' nutritional intake and implement personalized dementia care strategies to adjust the food based on their health and needs.

Transparent Pricing Structure

The cost of private care home living is another important factor to consider when choosing a home. Private care homes can be expensive, so it's essential to set a budget to narrow down your options that provide the right level of care.

At Sagecare, we understand that dealing with hidden and unexpected costs can be overwhelming, so we have a transparent pricing structure that lets you make an informed decision when choosing a private care home. Transparency in pricing builds trust between the care home and the residents, their families, and potential customers, so we are open about pricing policies.

Some of the general costs private long term care homes Toronto residents have to bear involve rent, food, laundry, and utility bills. Additional charges may include visits from medical professionals, hairdressers, or transportation. The cost of private care home can vary depending on the level of support your loved one needs, the dementia stage they are in, and their overall health. We will offer a breakdown of the cost of private care home living at Sagecare when you come in, allowing you to make an informed decision and avoid confusion or misunderstanding.

Choosing a Home

Comparing private care homes and finding the best one for your loved one can seem overwhelming. But putting in the work in the initial stages can help you rest assured that your loved one is thriving in their new environment. Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about Sagecare's private care homes in the GTA. We will guide you through the process and answer any questions you have to streamline this process and take the stress of choosing the right home out of the equation.

Sharon Toor

Sharon administers, coordinates, and directs all activities at 147 Elder Street, supports the team, and ensures continued excellence in care. She identifies residents needs and establishes new services as needed which keep us at the forefront of care for persons with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

She has held progressive positions since 2004 within Public Health, Occupational Health as a Health Services Manager in the food industry, and as Director of Care, Executive Director, and Regional Director within the Retirement Sector. Sharon is recognized for her clinical knowledge and leadership strengths.