This is what I would do if I was looking for a care home for a loved one: Look at the outside and gardens. Are they well kept?

Does the home smell nice and clean and is nicely decorated? Are the residents sitting around and sleeping?

There may be an activity board.

They look good but I suspect some activities don’t take place. Try to visit on one of the activity days.

Also, look at meal times and take note of the quality of food. See if residents are encouraged to eat or left to their own devices.

Talk to residents about the home and ask if they are happy there.

Stagger visiting times so you get a better overall picture.

These homes charge a lot of money and, after all, it is a business and has to show a profit.

But it should not be at a cost to our most vulnerable and elderly.

H Hamer, Blackburn.