The Overwhelming Search: Why Families Struggle to Find Care Homes

When Ahmed Poopola’s mother began showing signs of dementia, Ahmed thought finding a care home would be as simple as searching online and booking a visit. Instead, he found himself lost in a maze of uncertainty, conflicting information, and emotional turmoil.

His story mirrors that of thousands of families who face the same struggle every year trying to balance love, responsibility, and the painful reality of needing professional care.

Ahmed describes the process as “one of the hardest things I’ve ever done.” Watching his mother’s condition deteriorate, he battled guilt and heartbreak. “I promised I’d take care of her,” he said, “but I didn’t realise how much support she would eventually need.”

According to Alzheimer’s Disease International, over 55 million people worldwide live with dementia, and that number is growing by nearly 10 million each year. For their families, the emotional toll of finding suitable care is immense. Many, like Ahmed, face the painful decision of entrusting their loved ones to strangers a decision that feels as emotional as it is practical.

Ahmed began his search online, but every care home seemed to say the same thing: “high-quality care,” “professional staff,” “safe and supportive environment.” Yet, when he tried to compare homes, he found it nearly impossible.

“Every website looked polished, but I couldn’t tell which ones truly understood dementia care,” he recalled. “I wanted to know how they treated residents when the cameras weren’t rolling.”

Unfortunately, Ahmed’s frustration is common. A 2023 report by Age UK revealed that 67% of families find care home information confusing or incomplete, leaving them overwhelmed and unsure of what to believe.

Even when Ahmed found homes that seemed promising, the costs varied wildly. Some quoted weekly fees that excluded essentials like medication management or personal care. Others charged extra for activities or medical visits. “It felt like every question came with a different price tag,” he said.

In the UK alone, the average cost of residential care exceeds £1,100 per week, according to Care England. Yet, financial assistance and funding guidance remain complex, forcing families to make critical decisions under stress.

And then there were the waiting lists. Ahmed finally found a home that seemed perfect  warm, patient, and specialized in dementia care only to be told there would be a six-month wait. “It broke my heart,” he said. “We didn’t have six months.”

Amid the confusion and financial strain, what Ahmed wanted most was peace of mind. “I wasn’t looking for the fanciest building or the lowest price,” he said. “I just wanted to know my mum would be treated like a person, not a patient.”

And that’s where so many families struggle. Beyond amenities and ratings, they’re seeking something with deep human trust and genuine care. Yet, there’s no easy way to measure those qualities on a brochure.

This is where where we steps in  to bridge the gap between families like Ahmed’s and the care homes that truly meet their needs.

At Dabarr, our mission is to connect individuals and families with care homes that honour their unique preferences, dignity, and comfort. We know the search for care isn’t just about logistics  it’s about love, trust, and peace of mind.

That’s why we strive to:

   •          Simplify the journey: We guide families through every step, cutting through confusion with clear, human-centered support.

   •          Ensure transparency: We facilitate honest conversations about care quality, costs, and culture so families can make confident decisions.

   •          Offer continuous support: Our role doesn’t end when a home is chosen  we continue checking in, ensuring families and residents are happy and supported.

For Ahmed, a platform like Dabarr made all the difference. “I had someone to guide me, to explain what really mattered, I didn't feel so alone,” he said.

The search for a care home will always be emotional it’s a decision made from love. But it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With better transparency, honest communication, and support systems like Dabarr, families can focus on what truly matters: ensuring their loved ones live with dignity, comfort, and respect.

As Ahmed reflects, “I finally found a place that felt right for Mum, but it took months of tears and second-guessing. No family should have to go through that alone.”

At Dabarr, we couldn’t agree more and we’re here to make sure they don’t have to.

xoxo,

Your Special friend.