Guide to contemporary care homes in Preston

With its strong sense of community, excellent healthcare facilities, and vibrant green spaces like Avenham and Miller Parks, it’s no wonder many choose to call Preston home.

When it comes to care options, the city offers a range of contemporary care homes designed to provide comfort, independence, and high-quality support.

Its commitment to its elderly residents aligns with its 13.3% increase in residents aged 65 and over between 2011 and 2021, as reported by ONS.

It is also home to 25 centenarians, spread across eleven neighbourhoods, showcasing a supportive environment for the elderly.

Whether you’re looking for state-of-the-art facilities, a welcoming atmosphere, or access to local amenities, this guide will help you explore the best care homes in Preston.

Where are the best care homes in Preston?

Below is a list of some of the top-rated care homes in Preston.

Pear Tree House

Pear Tree House, operated by Care UK, is among the most luxurious care homes situated near Preston, Lancashire. Since its opening in May 2023, it has been providing 24-hour residential, respite, and dementia care services.

The home offers spacious ensuite rooms equipped with modern amenities, including smart TVs and mini-fridges, ensuring comfort and privacy for residents.

Designed with a homely atmosphere, Pear Tree House features tastefully decorated communal spaces, a hair salon, and a full-screen cinema room, all contributing to a vibrant and engaging environment. The facility also boasts accessible gardens and landscaped areas, promoting wellbeing and social interaction among residents.

Sherwood Lodge

Sherwood Lodge, operated by Barchester Healthcare, is a purpose-built residential care home situated in Preston's tranquil Fulwood district. The home offers high-quality residential and respite care for older adults, with a focus on personalised care plans tailored to individual needs.

Residents can enjoy a variety of activities designed to stimulate and engage, all based on their interests and desires. The facility is set within 2.5 acres of landscaped grounds, shared with its sister home, Sherwood Lodge, providing a serene environment conducive to wellbeing. Conveniently located, Sherwood Lodge is easily accessible by road and rail, with frequent bus services connecting to the facilities of Preston.

Ribble Court

Ribble Court, operated by Sandstone Care Group, is a contemporary care home situated in Much Hoole, near Preston. The facility offers 53 spacious and stylish ensuite bedrooms, each equipped with a wet room, ensuring comfort and privacy for residents.

Designed with modern aesthetics, Ribble Court features a range of amenities including spacious lounges, a dining room, a café, a residents' kitchen, a hair and beauty salon, landscaped gardens, and a central courtyard. These facilities are thoughtfully designed to provide a safe, secure, and friendly environment, promoting a sense of community among residents.

Meadow Bank Care Home

Meadow Bank is a welcoming care home set within a residential community in Bamber Bridge near Preston. With 110 beds, it provides high-quality residential, nursing and dementia care in a supportive and inclusive environment. The home, which is part of HC-One, has recently undergone a significant investment and refurbishment programme, creating a modern, comfortable setting designed to enhance residents’ quality of life.

Meadow Bank is home to a Specialist Dementia Care Community that offers enhanced support for people experiencing emotional distress related to dementia. The home features a range of inviting spaces, including comfortable lounges, activity areas and attractive dining rooms, alongside a landscaped garden and patio.

Strong links with the local community are actively encouraged, and a lively programme of events, talks and performances runs throughout the year, complemented by a wide range of hobbies and activities shaped by residents’ interests and ideas.

How to find the best care homes in Preston

Finding the best care homes in Preston involves careful research and consideration to ensure it meets your or your loved one's specific needs. Here's a step-by-step guide to assist you in making an informed decision:

Assess care needs

The first step in finding the best care homes in Preston is to conduct a comprehensive care needs assessment. This evaluation, typically carried out by a social worker or healthcare professional, examines your physical, mental, and emotional health to determine the level of care required. The assessment considers how well you manage daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and cooking, and identifies any support you may need to maintain your wellbeing.

Research care homes

Once your care needs are assessed, use the Autumna platform to explore care homes in Preston that align with your requirements. We offer a comprehensive directory of care homes, allowing you to filter options based on the type of care needed, such as residential, nursing, or dementia care. Additionally, you can view ratings and reviews to gauge the quality of care provided. You can also use our simple shortlisting tool to answer a few questions to be matched with an even more bespoke list of care homes.

Visit potential care homes in Preston

After identifying suitable care homes in Preston, arrange visits to experience the environment firsthand. During these visits, assess the cleanliness, safety, and overall atmosphere of the facility. Engage with staff and residents to gain insights into daily routines and the quality of interactions. This will help you determine if the home feels welcoming and meets your expectations.

Evaluate services and amenities

Consider the range of services and amenities each care home offers. Look for facilities that provide personalised care plans, ensuring that your specific health and personal preferences are addressed. Check if the home offers engaging social activities, nutritious meal options, and comfortable living spaces. Access to communal areas, gardens, and other amenities can significantly enhance the quality of life for residents.

Consider location and accessibility

The location of the care home is crucial for maintaining social connections and accessibility. Choose a facility that is conveniently located for family and friends to visit regularly. Proximity to local amenities such as shops, parks, and medical facilities can also be beneficial. Ensure that the home is easily accessible by public transport or has adequate parking facilities for visitors.

Review contracts and policies

Before making a decision, thoroughly review the care home's contract and policies. Pay attention to terms regarding the duration of stay, notice periods, and conditions for termination. Understand the home's policies on visitors, personal belongings, and any restrictions that may apply. This ensures transparency and helps set clear expectations for both parties. Check out our blog on care home rights to learn more.

Seek feedback and reviews

Gather feedback from current residents and their families to gain a realistic perspective on the care home's environment and services. Online reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the experiences of others. Just make sure they are up to date to get a picture of what it’s like now. Additionally, consider contacting local advocacy groups or ombudsman services for independent assessments of the care home.

Need more information?

If you are having trouble shortlisting the best care homes in Preston, our friendly and caring team of advisors are on hand to help. Contact us today on 01892 335 330.