GP, dentist, optician and chiropodist: health care in a care home

Moving into a care home does not mean losing access to the NHS. Residents see GPs, dentists, opticians and other professionals, and families can help keep things running smoothly.

GP

Residents are registered with a GP practice, as anyone else. Some can keep their existing GP, if the practice covers the area and agrees. Otherwise they register with a local practice. At Cedar House, residents can keep their own GP if the GP agrees, or choose from local GPs.

Dentist

Good mouth care matters, as a sore mouth or loose dentures can affect eating. Ask how the home arranges dental check-ups. At Cedar House, dental care is available whenever it is needed.

Optician

Many opticians visit care homes to do eye tests. At Cedar House, an optical service visits once a year.

Chiropodist

Foot care helps people stay mobile and comfortable. At Cedar House, a chiropodist visits every two months. Ask the manager about charges.

Hearing

Ask the GP about a referral if hearing seems to be getting worse, and make sure hearing aids are cleaned and have working batteries.

Hospital appointments

Ask the home how appointments are handled. At Cedar House, the family is offered the chance to go with the resident first. If they cannot, a member of staff goes. The home does not provide transport itself but arranges a car or an ambulance through the GP.

If someone becomes unwell at night

Ask what happens if a resident needs to go to hospital in the night. At Cedar House, staff work through the night, and there is an on-call service if the family cannot go with the resident. This should be agreed before moving in.

Continence

At Cedar House, residents are assessed by trained continence advisors, and the home provides pads and other aids.

Read more about residential care at Cedar House.