Dementia & Alzheimers

If a family member has been diagnosed with dementia, you may feel anxious about what the future may hold. You may have concerns about how their health, wellbeing or behaviour will change or experience common feelings of guilt or uncertainty. Our teams work in partnership with you and your family to provide advice, support & signposting – and every individual query is investigated with care, so please reach out with any questions you may have.

  • What’s the biggest difference between Alzheimers and Dementia?
    Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability, while Alzheimer's is a specific disease that is the most common cause of dementia. Other types of dementia include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. All types of dementia cause a decline in mental ability, but the symptoms and progression of the disease can vary depending on the type.
  • When should someone living with Dementia consider a move into care?
    As dementia progresses, a person with dementia may need to move into full-time care. The decision should be based on their individual needs, including the severity of the dementia, their ability to live safely at home, and the availability, and ability, of support at home.
  • Are next of kin responsible for care home fees?
    In the UK, next of kin are not legally responsible for paying care home fees. The individual receiving care is responsible for the fees, but a financial assessment (including assets, income,health needs, and care plan) will be carried out to determine any required contributions. Next of kin may voluntarily agree to pay some or all of the fees, but this should be done in writing and with legal advice.
  • How often can I visit my loved one in a care home?
    There is no set rule on how often you can visit your loved one in a care home. The most important thing is to find a frequency that works for both you and your loved one. Some people prefer to visit every day, while others prefer to visit once a week – there’s no right or wrong answer. Aim to visit regularly, but it’s important to be flexible and adaptable to your visiting schedule to accommodate any change of circumstance.

Respite Care

  • How Long Does a Respite Stay Last?
    Generally lasting several days or weeks, respite care can be tailored to your individual needs and supports the primary caregiver to rest and recharge. A short-term stay can also act as an introduction to care, with repeat visits or permanent care options available.
  • How Would I Pack Ahead of a Respite Stay?

    Our care homes offer a laundry service, however for shorter stays, you may prefer to bring enough clothing to cover the duration of your stay. To learn more about how to best prepare for your stay, please see our Respite Care page.

  • What Happens If I Need To See A Doctor Throughout My Stay?
    You will remain registered with your own doctor throughout your respite stay, however, in the event of an emergency, our on call GP will be contacted.
  • Does Respite Care Affect Your Carer Allowance?
    You can continue to receive your Carer's Allowance for up to four weeks in any six-month period, however, it’s a complicated topic so it is worth speaking with your local council.

Funding

  • Will the local council pay for my care home fees?
    All adults over 65 in Scotland receive free personal care (£248.70* per week) and nursing care (£111.90* per week) paid by the local authority directly to the care provider. Therefore, in many cases, you may qualify for funding support. *Taken from carehome.co.uk, based on council funding. Subject to change
  • What are the thresholds for care home funding in Scotland?
    People with capital of £35,000 or higher will typically be referred as self-funders. (*Funding thresholds are subject to change, so always ask your care manager or the home directly for support.)
  • Whats included in the cost of my care stay?
    Our care homes provide a comfortable and supportive environment for residents 24/7. In addition to the care itself, your fees cover all the essentials you'd expect, including: accommodation, meals, laundry, utilities, and activities *Some specialised treatments from visiting professionals, such as a podiatrist, may have additional costs. We'll be happy to discuss these options with you in more detail.
  • How does moving into a care home affect my pension?
    In Scotland, moving into a care home generally won't affect your ability to receive your State Pension. However, it can impact how you contribute towards care fees. If you pay for your care home fees yourself, you'll continue to receive your full State Pension. If your local council helps pay for your care, they might assess your income and savings, including your State Pension, to determine how much you contribute. You'll still receive a minimum amount for personal expenses.

Admissions Process

  • What is your typical waitlist time?
    While wait times can vary depending on your specific needs and current openings at our homes, we'll work hard to find the best fit for you. If we can't accommodate you right away, we'd be happy to connect you with a sister home that may have availability.
  • What should I pack when moving into a care home?
    We're here to make your stay comfortable and personalised - feel free to bring along any home comforts that will make your stay enjoyable. Depending on your requirements —short or long-term care — what you want to bring may differ. Should you have any specific questions on what you should bring, get in touch with us and our team will be happy to provide guidance.
  • Can we visit multiple sites before selecting a care home?
    Absolutely! We encourage you to visit multiple care homes to find the one that best suits you and your family. Each of our sites has its own unique charm that is waiting to be explored.
  • What is the difference between a care home and a nursing home?

    While often used as a blanket term, care homes generally offer residential care to support with day-to-day tasks while a nursing home supports with more complex care needs and rehabilitation. More information on the services available at each site are available within the Our Homes page.

  • Are you compliant with COVID guidelines?
    While COVID guidance is not actively in force, Renaissance Care take a vigilant approach to illness and politely ask visitors who may be sick to avoid visiting the home. We do offer FaceTime / video call alternatives, so please just ask about any adjustments we can make in order to protect yourself and our people.
  • How often can I visit my loved one in a care home?
    There is no set rule on how often you can visit your loved one in a care home. The most important thing is to find a frequency that works for both you and your loved one. Some people prefer to visit every day, while others prefer to visit once a week – there’s no right or wrong answer. Aim to visit regularly, but it’s important to be flexible and adaptable to your visiting schedule to accommodate any change of circumstance.

Dining Experience & Nutritional Wellbeing

  • Care Home Food and Dietary Requirements
    Each meal experience provides choice and diversity as standard incorporating vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options, as well as any allergies that need catered for. Each menu can be tailored to all dietary requirements including textured modified options or suitable for those requiring finger foods. We tailor meals for dysphagia diets whilst maintaining the nutritional value and visual appeal of the dish.
  • What Can I Expect From Mealtimes?
    We try to protect mealtimes where possible so that residents can relax and enjoy the full dining experience without time pressures or interruptions. This being said, loved ones can join residents for breakfast, lunch, dinner or any of the refreshment breaks throughout the day where home-baking and drinks are readily available.
  • How Do Renaissance Care Make The Dining Experience Special?
    Consideration is given to the full dining experience within our care homes. The welcome you receive; the table presentation; the menu choice; the presentation of food and service delivery – it should all promote an enjoyable, positive and sociable experience for each resident upon every sitting.
  • How Does My Nutrition / Fluid Intake Impact My Care?
    We understand that good food and nutrition has an overwhelming impact on physical wellbeing and positive mental health. Maintaining healthy nutritious food choices and strong hydration levels helps to increase strength, mobility and mood – promoting overall wellbeing of a resident.
  • Can My Loved One Be Included In Mealtimes?
    We encourage residents to invite family and friends to join them at mealtimes and share a social experience with the people they love. This can be catered for within in-room dining, private dining or within the dining room setting, it’s completely up to you. Our full menu is available throughout.
  • How Do Renaissance Care Make The Dining Experience Special?
    Consideration is given to the full dining experience within our care homes. The welcome you receive; the table presentation; the menu choice; the presentation of food and service delivery – it should all promote an enjoyable, positive and sociable experience for each resident upon every sitting.
  • Can you cater to my dietary requirements / choices ?
    Each meal experience provides choice and diversity as standard incorporating vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options, as well as any allergies. Menus are tailored to all dietary needs, including textures and finger foods, while ensuring nutritional value and visual appeal, especially for dysphagia diets.

Careers

  • Do you offer sponsorship?
    Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship at this time
  • What Experience Do I Need To Work in Care?
    Depending on the role, required qualifications or experience may vary. We offer training and development opportunities and encourage applications from compassionate and caring individuals. All successful candidates will be required to register with the SSSC and obtain a PVG.
  • What Are The Benefits of Working at Renaissance Care?
    In addition to a rewarding career that makes a real difference to the individuals we support, we are committed to providing a well-rounded benefits package that supports our peoples wellbeing. Included in this is a flexible approach to the working week, blue light discount and access to concerts for carers, Online gym membership with danceSing and more.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

  • What activities are good for dementia care homes?
    Engaging in gentle exercise, reminiscing sessions, music therapy, and creative pursuits like arts and crafts can be beneficial for those experiencing dementia. Recognising individuality is paramount at Renaissance, so our homes personalise activities based on your unique interests, preferences, and ability.
  • What is an example of meaningful activity?
    Meaningful activity encompasses a range of experiences, from participating in an exercise class to cherishing moments with loved ones, tending to the garden, or achieving personal milestones. It revolves around promoting independence, choice, and facilitating an active and fulfilled lifestyle – any activity that brings the recipient joy can be meaningful.
  • What makes the activity meaningful?
    Meaningful activities engage residents emotionally, mentally, spiritually and physically, with the goal of promoting a sense of purpose and connection.
  • Why are activities important in a care home?
    Activities are important within a care home as they enhance residents' quality of life, stimulate cognitive function, and foster social interaction, promoting overall wellbeing.
  • What is a Wellbeing Lead?
    Our Wellbeing Leads (formerly Activities Coordinators) do more than just plan activities. They connect with residents on a personal level, support them in achieving their goals, and create a fun, social atmosphere where every day brings new possibilities. Their role includes everything from 1-1 and group activities, promoting active and fulfilling lifestyles, day trips, and fostering friendships.

Contact Us

For General Enquiries, Please Contact Us: