Guide
Can they stay at home safely?
Often, yes, but it depends on why they are struggling. Lost strength and balance can often be rebuilt, and many risks in the house can be fixed. Before deciding on a care home or carers, find out which parts of the problem can change. That is what a home assessment is for.
Signs they may need more help
One of these on its own is not a reason to move. Several together, and getting worse, is a reason to look closely.
- Falls, near misses, or a new fear of falling
- Struggling with the stairs, the bath, or getting up from a chair
- Missed meals, weight loss, or a daily routine that has slipped
- Forgetting medication, or leaving the cooker on
- Going out less, or seeing fewer people
- Family doing a little more each month just to keep things going
£1,548 a week
is the typical cost of a self-funded residential care home place in London, before nursing or dementia care.
What the council must offer
It helps to know what you can ask for. In England:
- A needs assessment
- Free, and anyone can ask for one. Contact social services at the local council, who will do their own assessment.
- Paying for care
- If they need care, a financial assessment follows. People with savings over £23,250 usually pay for their own care; below that, the council may help. For care at home, the value of their home is not counted.
- Equipment and small changes
- Aids and minor adaptations costing up to £1,000, such as grab rails, must be provided free when the council assesses a need for them.
- Bigger changes
- A Disabled Facilities Grant of up to £30,000 can pay for things like a stairlift or a level-access shower. It is means-tested.
- Attendance Allowance
- A weekly payment for people over State Pension age who need help because of an illness or disability. It is not means-tested.
How we can help
An occupational therapist or physiotherapist visits them at home. We test strength, balance and mobility, see how they are functioning day to day, and look at the house. The aim is to keep them doing as much for themselves as they safely can: too much help too soon can take away the independence you are trying to protect. The written plan says what can change and what to do first, and we guide you through the council and NHS services worth contacting.
The assessment is £140, and it starts with a free consultation call.