When families begin the search for an aged care facility or rest home for a loved one, there’s a lot more to consider than just the building itself. In this video, Leticia and Richard explain that families should focus on both emotional connection and practical care when making their decision.

Richard suggests first asking, “Would Mum or Dad feel comfortable here?” The right environment should feel welcoming not only for the resident but also for their family. It’s important to consider how engaging and joyful the atmosphere is and look for warmth in staff interactions, signs of lively activity, and whether the facility feels like a true home rather than just a care setting.

He also highlights the value of strong clinical care and transparency. Families should explore staff-to-resident ratios, the availability of medical support, and the quality of the food as this is also something that impacts a resident’s wellbeing.

Ultimately, families aren’t just choosing a place for care. They’re choosing a new home for their loved one. At Rawhiti Estate, the focus is on getting the balance right, offering compassionate, high-quality care in a community that feels like home.