Preparing Your Home for Care: A Step-by-Step Checklist

Welcoming a carer into your home is an important step towards maintaining independence and safety. Preparing your home ensures that care can be delivered smoothly, comfortably, and safely — both for you and your care team.

This step-by-step checklist helps you get your home ready before care begins.

1. Create a Safe and Comfortable Environment

Safety is the foundation of good care. Take time to make sure your living space is clear, accessible, and well-lit.

• Remove loose rugs, clutter, or electrical cables that may cause trips or falls.
• Ensure good lighting in all areas used for mobility and personal care.
• Check that flooring is secure and dry, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Keep pathways, stairs, and entrances free from obstacles.
• Ensure smoke alarms and carbon-monoxide detectors are working.

(Aligned with Regulation 12 – Safe Care and Treatment)

2. Set Up a Dedicated Space for Care Activities

Having an organised area helps carers deliver personal and medical care efficiently.

• Identify a private space for personal care or dressing.
• Keep necessary items (towels, toiletries, continence products) close by.
• Store any medical or mobility equipment safely and within reach.
• Provide a clean, flat surface for medication administration or paperwork.
• Ensure carers have access to hand-washing facilities and PPE disposal points.

3. Organise Medication and Health Information

Medication safety is vital for effective care delivery.

• Keep all medication in its original packaging with clear labels.
• Store medicines in a safe, dry location away from children or pets.
• Prepare your Medication Administration Record (MAR) chart if applicable.
• Maintain an up-to-date list of prescriptions, GP details, and emergency contacts.
• Let carers know about any allergies or recent medication changes.

4. Ensure Accessibility and Mobility Support

Your carer will assist you with movement, transfers, and positioning, so accessibility is key.

• Arrange furniture to create clear walking routes.
• Check that walking aids (frames, sticks, hoists) are in good working condition.
• Install grab rails or non-slip mats in bathrooms and near steps if needed.
• Keep essential items (remote, phone, glasses) within easy reach.
• If you use a wheelchair, check that doorways and hallways allow easy access.

5. Prepare for Mealtimes and Hydration

Supporting good nutrition and hydration is part of maintaining your wellbeing.

• Keep essential groceries and snacks stocked.
• Store food safely and check expiry dates regularly.
• Ensure kitchen areas are clean, well-lit, and ventilated.
• Discuss your dietary preferences, allergies, or cultural requirements with your carer.
• Provide appropriate utensils if you have limited dexterity or strength.

6. Protect Privacy and Dignity

Your home is your personal space — care should always respect your boundaries and comfort.

• Designate which rooms or cupboards carers may access.
• Keep personal or confidential items stored securely.
• Discuss privacy preferences (e.g., door-knocking before entry, bedroom access).
• If you live with family, ensure everyone understands the carer’s role and schedule.

7. Set Up Documentation and Access for Carers

To ensure smooth coordination, carers may need access to key information and entry arrangements.

• Provide access instructions (key safe code, entry alarm, or buzzer details).
• Keep your Care Plan and Risk Assessments easily accessible for carers.
• Place emergency contact numbers in a visible location.
• Record any changes to routines or preferences in your daily care notes.

8. Communicate Your Preferences

Open communication helps ensure care remains person-centred and responsive.

• Discuss preferred routines — wake-up times, meals, medication times, bedtime, etc.
• Share any religious, cultural, or lifestyle needs.
• Provide feedback openly — small changes can make care more comfortable for you.
• Inform your care coordinator if your needs change or you’d like to review your plan.

(Aligned with Regulation 9 – Person-Centred Care and Regulation 17 – Good Governance)

9. Prepare Emotionally and Practically

It’s natural to feel uncertain when starting care. Allow yourself time to adjust and communicate any concerns.

• Meet your carer before the first visit if possible.
• Involve family or friends in the planning stage.
• Keep a notebook for questions or reminders.
• Remember: your care plan is flexible — it can change as your needs evolve.

Your Care, Your Comfort, Your Choice

At Heart of Gold Homecare Ltd, we are committed to ensuring that your home remains a place of safety, dignity, and independence. Preparing your home in advance allows our team to deliver the best possible support — focused entirely on your wellbeing.