There is rarely one clear moment. It often becomes apparent when everyday tasks such as washing, dressing or preparing meals become difficult, when falls become more frequent, or when someone is becoming increasingly isolated. It may also follow a hospital stay or a change in health. Our guide on choosing the right care home talks this through in more detail, and our team is always happy to have a no-pressure conversation.

Yes, and you are far from alone. Almost every family we speak to describes feeling some guilt or uncertainty. Choosing the right care is an act of love, not a failure of it. Moving into a care home often improves safety, wellbeing and quality of life, while giving families the reassurance that their loved one is well supported.

Every Rotherwood home is inspected and regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), and all our homes are rated "Good". You can read the latest report for any home in full before you visit; each home's page links directly to its CQC record.

Fees vary by home and by the level of care required, so the fairest answer comes from a conversation about individual needs. Current weekly fees are published on each home's page, and our guide on how much a care home costs explains what is included and what funding support may be available.

Yes. Our specialist teams support people living with all stages of dementia, including complex needs that many providers are unable to accommodate. Our approach focuses on dignity, wellbeing and familiarity, and on reducing distress without relying on unnecessary medication wherever possible.

Ask how care plans are created and reviewed, how the home handles changing needs, and how many staff have been there a long time, as consistency matters enormously. It is also worth asking about activities, dining and how families are kept involved. Most of all, notice how the home feels and how staff speak with residents.

Yes. Respite care offers short-term stays and is a good way to experience life in one of our homes before making a longer-term decision. Respite residents receive the same standard of care and the same access to our facilities and activities as permanent residents.