Serving people aged 50 and over

Straightforward answers to your questions

Many people's questions about what happens when someone needs care are similar, so we've answered a selection of the most common questions that are asked. Our guide 'Making sense of care in later life' looks at some of the questions that are commonly raised in more detail. If you would like a copy please call 0800 056 6101 or email us.

I feel I need care of some sort. Can my Local Authority help me and what is involved?

Your Local Authority has specially trained staff who can help you by assessing the level and type of care you need, and advising on how to go about arranging it. They can do this for you whether or not you would pay for your care yourself.

If you are likely to need financial help towards your care costs, then your Local Authority will need to carry out the assessment first, before going on to consider your financial situation.

The assessment process differs slightly between Local Authorities, but will usually involve a home visit by an assessor. They will go through a list of questions designed to establish what your specific difficulties are, and what might help you overcome them. They will also ask you about how much and what help you think would be useful to you, to get an idea of your preferences.

Do I have to pay for my care if I receive it in my own home?

If your Local Authority arranges for you to receive care from professional carers in your own home then your income and assets will be assessed to decide whether you have to contribute towards the cost. The Local Authority can set its own criteria for means-testing, but they cannot be any more stringent than would apply for residential care.

If you make your own arrangements for care in your home directly with a care provider you will be expected to pay for it yourself. You may be able to claim Attendance Allowance to help towards the cost.

I own my home - will it be included in the means test?

If you own a property it will usually be included in your assets for the means test. There are, however, are a number of occasions when it cannot be included such as:

where your partner still lives in the property
where a relative aged 60 or over still lives in the property

There are some other occasions when a property, or its full value, cannot be included in the means test. It is a good idea to get expert advice if you are told that your property is going to be means tested.

If I am paying for my own care will I be eligible for any state benefits?

The two most common benefits for those who require care and pay for it themselves are attendance allowance and the registered nursing care contribution. Claiming benefits can become quite complex, so it may help to talk matters through with an expert.

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For a copy of our guide 'Making sense of care in later life'

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0800 056 6101
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