When thinking about care homes, search Care Choices for a detailed list of all homes in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. You could also get in touch with our Adult Social Care Contact Centre and ask them to send you a free brochure.

Help in finding the right home

The Care Quality Commission registers and inspects care homes; read their inspection reports to find out more about homes locally.

Age UK's Care Home Checklist and the Alzheimer's Society Guide to Selecting a Care Home have tips on what to consider, the kind of questions to ask, and what to look for when selecting a care home.

Things to consider when choosing a residential care home

Choosing to move to a care home, either following an assessment by a social care worker or as a person funding your own care, is a big decision. Before making a commitment, you should make sure you have looked at the alternatives. With the right help and support, many people can live safely and independently in their own home.

What to think about

Care homes may be an option if you cannot manage at home and other housing options are not right for you. Even though living in a care home will mean compromises about your daily routine, you will get the care and support you need and people often find companionship as well.

It's important to find a care home that is right for you, and we suggest you always visit the care homes you are considering before making a final choice.

Types of home

You need to decide whether residential care or nursing care is suitable:

• residential homes provide living accommodation, meals and personal care if required
• nursing homes provide the same services plus nursing (medical) care
• some homes provide specialist care for dementia, mental health conditions, physical or learning disabilities

Checklists to help

These checklists provide a list of important things for you to think about:

• Care home checklist
• Care home checklist for people with dementia