Image placeholderA guide header image — e.g. a visit or conversation at a care home.
A visit tells you far more than any brochure. Ask the same questions at every centre so you can compare fairly, and trust what you see and smell as much as what you’re told.
Licensing & management
Are you licensed by JKM, and can I see the current certificate?
How long have you operated, and who owns/manages the centre?
How do you handle complaints and incidents?
Staffing & medical cover
How many carers and nurses are on duty during the day, and overnight?
How many residents does each carer look after?
Is a registered nurse always on site? How quickly can a doctor attend?
How is medication stored, administered and recorded?
Safety & care
How do you prevent and respond to falls?
What is your emergency and hospital-transfer procedure?
How do you care for residents with dementia or wandering risk?
How often are residents repositioned, bathed and toileted?
Daily life & food
Can I see a sample weekly menu? Can you cater to medical or religious diets?
What activities are offered, and how often?
What are the visiting hours and policies?
Can residents keep personal belongings and decorate their space?
Fees & contract
What is the all-in monthly fee, and what is not included?
Is there a deposit or registration fee? What is the refund policy?
How and when are fees reviewed?
What is the notice period if we need to move out?
Can I have the fee schedule and contract in writing to take home?
Trust your senses
Is the centre clean and free of odour? Are residents dressed, groomed and engaged? Do staff speak to residents warmly and by name? Are call bells answered promptly? These observations often matter more than any answer.