As we age, the need for quality care becomes increasingly important, not only for individuals but also for their loved ones. With an ageing population in the UK, many families are faced with the challenge of finding the right elderly care while managing the associated costs. Everyday tasks can become more difficult as needs change, making it essential to find a care solution that provides both support and comfort.
At Trinity Homecare, we understand that navigating the costs of elderly care can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re considering residential care, live-in care or visiting care at home, we’re here to help guide you through your options. We’ll explore the costs involved in each type of care, ensuring you find the best solution for your unique situation.
Remaining in the comfort of your own home, surrounded by familiar routines and memories, can significantly improve your quality of life. With our CQC ‘Outstanding’ rated services, our compassionate team is here to support you every step of the way.
Who pays for elderly care?
In the UK, the cost of elderly care, whether provided in a residential care home or through home care services, can be funded either privately or by the Local Authority, depending on an individual’s financial circumstances. Funding for elderly care is determined through means-testing, which evaluates a person’s assets and income to establish their eligibility for financial assistance.
Assets of over £23,250 | Self-funded |
Assets between £14,250 – £23,250 | Partly council-funded/partly self-funded |
Assets of less than £14,250 | Fully council funded |
It’s important to note that changes to the current system are forthcoming. The upper asset threshold is set to rise to £100,000, meaning individuals with assets above this amount will be classified as self-funding. However, there will be a lifetime cap of £86,000 on the total amount a person will need to contribute towards their care. The lower threshold is also set to increase to £20,000, enabling more people to qualify for full or partial support from the Local Authority.
If you’re uncertain about your eligibility, we recommend contacting your local Adult Social Care Team for a financial assessment, as this process may take several weeks to arrange.
How much does elderly care cost in the UK?
The cost of elderly care in the UK varies based on the type of care needed and individual requirements, with notable differences between care home and home care services.
Elderly care home costs
The cost of care homes for the elderly can fluctuate depending on various factors, including the location, level of care required and the amenities offered. On average, care home fees in the UK range from £750 to £1,500 per week, covering accommodation, personal care and meals.
It’s worth noting that some care homes separate costs for care and accommodation, with additional charges for services such as hairdressing, activities or specialist therapies. These extra fees can make it harder to estimate the full cost.
When exploring care home options, it’s important to consider not just the weekly fees but the overall value of the services provided, including the quality of care and facilities. Funding options and eligibility for financial assistance or Local Authority contributions can also play a significant role in reducing the overall cost.
Elderly home care costs
The cost of elderly home care can often be comparable to that of a care home and for couples, it can offer substantial savings. Several factors influence the cost of home care, including the individual’s health, care needs and the provider selected. As a result, hourly or weekly home care costs can vary significantly between providers.
Home care fees are typically quoted as an all-inclusive rate based on the person’s assessed needs, making it easier for families to plan ongoing expenses. In contrast, care homes often separate fees for care and accommodation and may charge extra for additional services like hairdressing, therapies or social activities, making total costs harder to predict.
At Trinity Homecare, once the care plan and fees are agreed upon, costs generally remain stable unless there’s a significant change in care needs. However, it’s important to note that annual inflationary increases are common across the sector, so families should plan for potential cost adjustments.
With over 25 years of experience, Trinity Homecare understands that managing care costs is a major concern for many families. Some may need to self-fund, while others may be eligible for financial assistance or care funding.
Our comprehensive guides contain everything you need to know about financing and funding home care.
How to arrange elderly care
Once your loved one has decided upon at home elderly care, taking the next steps to put a care plan into action couldn’t be easier. Trinity Homecare can perfectly match your loved one with an experienced elderly carer who will provide support and assistance all in the comfortable surroundings of home.
If you have any questions about arranging elderly care, simply get in touch with our helpful and knowledgeable care team.
Arranging nationwide elderly care with Trinity is straightforward.
Simply follow these five steps:
- Call our care team
- Undergo a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your care needs and arrange a care assessment
- After the assessment, a plan of care is created
- A well-suited carer is found and placed
- Care can be adapted at any time