Care home help needed - where to start?

[Makemedoit]

My mum was diagnosed with dementia 4 years ago and has managed with a support package to live in her home. However, as she is deteriorating this is becoming untenable. This morning she put the electric kettle on the gas hob and nearly caused a fire.

I live 3 hours away from her and am not in a position to have her live with me so i know i now need to start to look for care homes for her but have no idea where to start. She lives in a council bungalow and has little money and I can't afford to pay for anything private. I don't know how the financial situation works or what I need to do. Can anyone help?

Hi what area are you in?
Have a look at age Uk website it’s good for informing you of the whole process
The elderly parents board here is good too
First step is local social work services for an assessment of need. Underline why you feel she is not safe at home.
What does your mum think about it?
Have you power of attorney if not see if you can get it ASAP

Make contact with social services and get someone out to assess her. They will provide you with a list of all available homes in the local area and information on the fees etc. Have you spoken to her GP yet? They can also signpost you to information. It is a worrying time. Does she have neighbours that will look out for her until you can get something arranged?

She lives in wales. I spoke to GP and social services briefly about 6 months ago but they decided that she was ok where she is. Will start by ringing them again and getting the ball rolling.
I do have power of attorney but it's out pf date - change if address etc. At the moment I can't visit her because of the Welsh restrictions.
Will also look at the elderly parent board. I hadn't thought of Age UK but will check that out as well.

Recently gone through this process for my elderly aunty. Agree that social services is your starting point, they'll be able to talk you through the process. You can also talk to them about urgent respite care if you have immediate concerns about your mum's safety.

Thank you. I am waiting for a call back from them.

Look on the CQC (Care Quality Commission) at the homes in the area. There are detailed reports on homes including comments by staff, residents and relatives. Sometimes these comments tell you more than the 'official' bit of the report. Also see how long the manager has been in place as this can be a good indication too.
Don't just look at the rating, look at the justification for the rating. EG Do all the rooms have en suites? What is the accessibility - new homes are easier to keep clean and have lifts etc but an older building might feel more homely.

Does she have a social worker?
Sounds like she needs an assessment based on her safety.
A placement in a care home would be funded by Social services with contributions from pension etc. Your mum would be left with very little but she will have all her needs covered.

Its possible you could get her into a home nearer you which would make visits easier.
Hopefully they can find something quick

I thought providing care to a vulnerable person was still allowed in Wales so you should be able to visit if necessary.