Extra care housing provides independent accommodation with on-site care services available 24/7. It offers the perfect solution for people who want to maintain independence but need regular care and support.
What is Extra Care Housing?
Extra care housing combines:
- Independent Living: Your own self-contained flat or bungalow
- On-Site Care: Care staff available 24/7
- Flexible Care: Care levels can be adjusted as needs change
- Security: Secure buildings with safety features
- Community: Opportunities to socialise
- Support Services: Access to various support services
Who is Extra Care Housing For?
Extra care housing is suitable for:
- Older People: Usually aged 55 or 60 and over
- People with Care Needs: Those who need regular care
- People Wanting Independence: Those who want to live independently
- People with Health Conditions: Those with ongoing health needs
- Couples: Can accommodate couples with different care needs
Benefits of Extra Care Housing
Independence with Care
- Your own home with your own tenancy
- Care available when you need it
- Flexibility to adjust care levels
- Maintain your lifestyle and choices
- Privacy and autonomy
Quality of Life
- Security: Safe, secure environment
- Support: Help available 24/7
- Community: Social activities and connections
- Facilities: On-site facilities and services
- Peace of Mind: Knowing help is available
Types of Care Available
Personal Care
- Help with washing and dressing
- Medication management
- Support with meals
- Help with daily tasks
Health Support
- Health monitoring
- Support with medical appointments
- Coordination with healthcare services
- Emergency response
Social Support
- Social activities
- Community connections
- Support with relationships
- Help accessing services
Finding Extra Care Housing
Application Process
- Contact Providers: Contact housing associations and councils
- Assessment: Assessment of your care needs
- Financial Assessment: Assessment of ability to pay
- Viewing: Visit potential schemes
- Care Planning: Develop a care plan
- Moving In: Support with transition
What to Look For
- Location: Is it in an area you want to live?
- Care Quality: What is the quality of care?
- Facilities: What facilities are available?
- Cost: Can you afford the costs?
- Flexibility: Can care be adjusted?
Costs
Housing Costs
- Rent (social or affordable rent)
- Service charges for facilities
- May be eligible for Housing Benefit
Care Costs
- Care charges based on care needs
- May be funded through local authority
- Personal budgets may be available
- NHS Continuing Healthcare if eligible
Your Rights
Housing Rights
- Right to a secure tenancy
- Right to privacy
- Right to have visitors
- Right to make choices
- Right to complain
Care Rights
- Right to quality care
- Right to be involved in care planning
- Right to have preferences respected
- Right to review and change care
- Right to complain
Browse Extra Care Housing Providers
Find extra care housing providers in your area. These schemes offer independent living with flexible care services.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is extra care housing?
Extra care housing provides independent accommodation with on-site care services available 24/7. It offers the perfect balance of independence and care for people who need regular support.
What is the difference between sheltered housing and extra care housing?
Sheltered housing provides basic support and security, while extra care housing provides more intensive care services with care staff available 24/7 for people with higher care needs.
Who is extra care housing for?
Extra care housing is for older people and people with care needs who want to live independently but need regular care and support. It's suitable for people with ongoing health or care needs.
What care is available in extra care housing?
Care can include personal care, help with daily tasks, medication management, health monitoring, emergency response, and support accessing services. Care is flexible and can be adjusted as needs change.
How much does extra care housing cost?
Costs include rent, service charges, and care charges. Rent may be covered by Housing Benefit, and care costs may be funded through local authority assessments or personal budgets.
Can I adjust my care levels?
Yes, care levels can be adjusted as your needs change. Your care plan should be reviewed regularly, and you can request changes if your circumstances change.
Is extra care housing the same as a care home?
No, extra care housing provides independent accommodation with your own tenancy and care available when needed. Care homes provide 24/7 care and accommodation together.
Can couples live in extra care housing?
Yes, extra care housing can accommodate couples, even if they have different care needs. This is one of the advantages over care homes.
What facilities are available?
Facilities can include communal lounges, restaurants, shops, hairdressers, activity rooms, gardens, and guest rooms. Facilities vary by scheme.
How do I apply for extra care housing?
Contact housing associations and local authorities that provide extra care housing. You'll need assessments of your housing and care needs, and may need a financial assessment.