Anyone know about decent nursing homes for elderly people with dementia? I'm in Woodseats/Heeley area and need to find somewhere decent for my father quickly. Feeling daunted by it and would appreciate any advice or warnings.

there is a book/pamphlet that you can get from either social services your gp or a cpn(if hes got one) it will have a list of whats available in sheff-both residential and nursing homes.
Like everywhere their are good and bad places- i would recommend visiting each place on your shortlist several times-including when they are not expecting you(early morning and late at night)
Also talking to other relatives at the home can be usefull as they will usually be very honest
also, ask about there agency /bank useage-a high no. of these staff can indicate a staff retention problem,which is obviously not good?
good luck and take time over the decision
oh yeah-you also have the right to see their latest and previous inspection reports :thumbsup:

do you have any support from proffessionals with your dad?

Gnomi - the booklet referred to is the Community Care Directory - though I think all the homes are in the Yellow Pages too. You could ring the helpline of Sheffield Carers Centre on 272 8362 to get a copy of the Diectory.

You can see inspection reports on the web (http://www.csci.gov.uk/) and talk to relatives of people already in homes, but there is no substitute for visiting a few homes (preferably unannounced) and looking around. Is it the sort of place you'd want to live if you needed that sort of care?

And remember, it's not just a matter of there being good and less good homes - it's whether a particular home suits a particular (potential) relative.

Burt it's never easy having to find a home in these circumstances and being sure you've done the right thing.

Good luck

Sorry - this should have been addresses to Midgecat who asked the orginal question!

thanks ..... i'd not thought about turning up unannounced ....... is that an Ok thing to do then?

the csci.gov link is really useful ....... thanks grahamfff

definately. Any decent manager would tell you to do the same....if theyve nothing to hide.......................