Choosing a care home for someone you love is one of the most important decisions a family will ever make.
Whether you are planning ahead or facing an urgent hospital discharge, finding the right care home can feel overwhelming. There are many factors to consider: quality of care, staff experience, atmosphere, safety, activities, and cost.
At Cleeve Lodge in Goring-on-Thames, we understand how emotional this decision can be. This guide explains what to look for when choosing a care home in 2026.
1. Check the CQC Rating
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspects and regulates care homes in England.
Look for homes rated:
- Outstanding
- Good
Pay particular attention to:
- Caring
- Safe
- Responsive
- Well-led
An Outstanding rating is rare and indicates exceptional standards.
2. Visit the Home in Person
A website and brochure are helpful, but nothing replaces a visit.
Ask yourself:
- Does the home feel warm and welcoming?
- Are residents happy and engaged?
- Do staff know residents by name?
- Is there a calm, homely atmosphere?
- Does the home smell fresh and clean?
Your instinct matters.
3. Ask About Staffing Levels
High-quality care depends on having enough well-trained staff.
Ask:
- What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
- Are staff trained in dementia care?
- How long have key staff worked there?
- Are nurses or senior carers available overnight?
Consistency is especially important for residents living with dementia.
4. Look at Daily Life and Activities
A good care home offers more than personal care.
Residents should enjoy:
- Meaningful activities
- Social events
- Music and entertainment
- Gardening
- Community visits
- Therapy animals
- Celebrations and family events
The best homes focus on quality of life, not just meeting basic needs.
5. Understand What Is Included in the Fees
Some homes charge separately for services such as hairdressing, chiropody, and physiotherapy.
Others, like Cleeve Lodge, provide an inclusive fee structure with no hidden extras.
Always ask:
- What is included?
- Are there additional charges?
- How often are fees reviewed?
6. Consider Dementia Expertise
If your loved one is living with dementia, specialist knowledge is essential.
Look for:
- Dementia-trained staff
- Personalised care plans
- Calm, reassuring environments
- Meaningful activities tailored to individual interests
7. Speak to Other Families
Online reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insight.
Look at:
Consistent positive feedback is a strong sign of quality.
8. Ask About Medical Support
Check how the home works with:
- GPs
- District nurses
- Physiotherapists
- Podiatrists
- Opticians
Integrated healthcare support helps residents stay healthier and more comfortable.
9. Trust the Atmosphere
Families often say they “just knew” when they found the right home.
Look for warmth, dignity, laughter, and genuine relationships.
10. Choose a Home That Feels Like Home
The best care homes combine:
- Exceptional care
- Beautiful surroundings
- Engaging activities
- Compassionate staff
- Clear communication
Why Families Choose Cleeve Lodge
Located in the heart of Goring-on-Thames, Cleeve Lodge offers award-winning residential and dementia care in a boutique, family-run setting.
Families choose us because of our:
- Outstanding CQC rating
- High staffing levels
- Inclusive fee structure
- In-house physiotherapy, hairdressing, and podiatry
- Beautiful gardens and elegant accommodation
- Warm, family atmosphere
Arrange a Visit
If you are looking for exceptional care for a loved one, we would be delighted to welcome you for a personal tour.