A guide to extra-care housing
What is extra-care housing?
Who provides extra-care housing?
Why choose extra-care housing?
How much does extra-care cost?
Extra-care housing is specially designed accommodation for older people who are becoming frail and less able to do everything themselves. It’s sometimes called extra-care sheltered housing, very sheltered housing or assisted living housing. Either way, residents live in a self-contained apartment with their own kitchen and bathroom but round-the-clock care and support is available from trained, professional staff, when needed.
Most extra-care housing schemes are run by housing associations, although some are also run by private companies or local councils. While different schemes vary, like Ridgeway most will provide:
- self-contained flats with their own kitchen and bathroom
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a laundry room to share
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a communal lounge/dining room
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optional social activities
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communal gardens
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a guest room for overnight visitors
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security and safety features
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a scheme manager
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24-hour emergency assistance through an alarm system
Extra-care offers a higher level of care than just sheltered housing, with care and support staff on hand round-the-clock. The schemes are ideal for people who are less able to manage on their own, but who do not need the level of care available in a residential or nursing care home. The services offered will vary between schemes, but meals, help with domestic tasks and some personal care are usually provided. Residents have their own home, control over their finances, and privacy and choice about how much they mix with other residents.
You pay the cost of buying or renting your home and service charges for maintaining communal facilities. There are extra costs for support and care. These will be based on what help and support you need and you may be able to get help with these costs.
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