How To Choose The Right Care For Later Life…

Staying independent

For many, it is important to maintain independence for as long as possible.  There are various things you can do, and gadgets you can use, to help make yours (or a loved ones) home safer as easier to live in, as you get older. Mobility aids can help, such as grab rails, commodes – if the stairs are becoming harder, raised toilet seats, or personal alarms – should you have a fall and live alone. There are various options you can explore. 

Home care & live-in care

Home care or ‘domiciliary care’ as it is also known,  might be a good idea if you’re finding it difficult to carry out personal care routines, such as washing or dressing. It could be that other than certain tasks, your home meets your needs and you want to remain there for comfort. There is also the possibility of live-in carers.

Home care is something you may be able to receive help with from your local authority (which we discuss below). 

Sheltered housing or retirement villages

Sheltered housing is usually available to those over 60 and are typically self-contained flats with communal facilities. Properties have their own front door, kitchen and bathroom, and residents can continue to live independently, but with (usually) the help of wardens (who arrange repairs and any maintenance required) and 24 hour alarms; should an emergency occur. 

These places don’t typically offer nursing or medical care, but some have the option for ‘extra care’; where help can be provided for everyday personal tasks. 

Moving in with relatives

There are many reasons why a loved one can no longer live at their home. Whether running the household has simply become too much, it’s no longer safe, or due to loneliness; moving in with a relative may be an option. 

Moving into a home with your younger family could be a solution to these problems and have benefits such as more quality time together. That said it is a a big decision and has to work for everyone involved.

Residential care

If you or a family member are struggling and living independently just isn’t working, you may want to consider residential care. It could be that care visits are not enough, or, you may wish to be in a more social environment. 

In a care home, you’ll get a private bedroom usually with a bathroom, and help with all personal care, such as washing, dressing and going to the toilet. Your meals will be provided, usually in a communal dining area. There are usually various activities and outings you can also choose to partake in too. 

For those who have more complex needs, a nursing home can provide around the clock registered nurse care. 

How will I pay for my care? 

Social care is unlike our wonderful NHS service, in that it is rarely free. 

Many people want to continue living independently as they believe it is essential to maintain quality of life. If you would like to remain living independently in your home, therefore requiring help; or move to supported living, you will need an assessment.

Your Local Authority will conduct a ‘needs assessment’ (free of charge) and you will also have a financial means test.

The needs assessment will look at all aspects of your life ,including physical and mental health, and general wellbeing; to identify your needs. 

It could be you need help with shopping, washing, dressing, or that adaptive measures to your home would help. They may also recommend assistive technology (such as wearable alarms) and refer you to community support, or respite care.

Local authorities have a duty to assess the needs of anyone they think might have a need for support. This is regardless of your income or financial position.

If you’re eligible to receive local authority care services either at home or in a care home, your financial position will then be taken into account. 

Each local authority in England must assess your needs according to a national set of eligibility criteria. This may be via the local authority website and in written form in places such as GP surgeries, hospitals and libraries. This information will tell you where and how to apply for an assessment of needs, and how long you may have to wait. 

FIND YOUR LOCAL AUTHORITY: https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council

It’s natural to be concerned about finances, but it’s important to note that there are various benefits available in later life, from state benefits to help with energy bills. 

Protect what is yours & gain peace of mind for later life!

For a free, no obligation discussion about your long term care planning, please contact us at any time.