Everyone wants to remain at home as they grow older. And there is no reason, other than certain circumstances, why you or your loved one shouldn’t be able to.
Understandibly, one of the most common queries people have about home care is regarding finances. Concerns about costs can be off-putting. However, it doesn’t have to be. And there is support available.
With twenty five years experience, Choice Care knows the problems that people face and want to help. And so we’ve written this to hopefully answer some of your questions.
Read on to find out the different ways that people can access and pay for home care. As well as some of the different financial benefits that you, or the person assisting you, might be entitled to.
What are the first steps?
If everyday tasks are becoming harder to manage such as cooking, getting dressed or washing. Then it could be beneficial to have a care needs assesment. This is a way of working out what would help you or your loved one, stay at home indpendently, for as long as possible.
How do I access a care needs assesment?
A care needs assessment is carried out by your local council. Get in touch with your adult social services department and ask for one to be arranged. Explain the situation and that you, or your loved one needs some support in managing everyday tasks.
Know that a care needs assessment is free and you are entitled to one regardless of your financial situation or what your needs are.
After the assessment, if you are eligible for home care, then the council will carry out a means test. This takes into account your income and savings and unless your going into a care home, will not factor in the value of your property.
You can find a thorough breakdown of the means test here: Financial Assessment for Care Explained | Age UK
If you are eligible for financial support then your local council can arrange home care services for you. Alternatively, you can choose to receive direct payments and arrange for home care yourself.
How much does home care cost?
The cost of home care varies across the country. If you are looking for information regarding home care in Blackburn, then why not contact Choice Care for more information. Our team are more than happy to advise and guide you.
Alternatively, your local adult service department and the UK Homecare Association can give you details of home care providers that follow its code of practice. Or even just ask for recommendations from friends and family.
Can I get financial support for home care?
There are certain benefits available to help people access assistance. Have a look at what they entail and whether you are entitled to any of them.
Attendance Allowance
You are able to claim Attendance Allowance if you meet the following criteria:
- You’re over state-pension age.
- You have any type of disability or illness.
- You could benefit from some help with managing everyday tasks.
- You have needed help for at least six months.
Personal Independence Allowance
You are able to claim Personal Independent Allowance if you meet the above criteria but are under the state-pension age.
This can give you a little extra money if, for instance, you have to give up work or reduce your hours.
Carer’s Allowance
You could be eligible for a Carer’s Allowance if you meet the following criteria:
- You spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone.
- You do not earn more than £132 a week.
- You are not in full-time education.
- You care for someone who receives the higher or middle rate of Personal Independence Allowance, or an Attendance Allowance
Hopefully, this has helped answer some of your questions regarding financial support for home care. If you would like any more information about this or home care in general, then please visit our website at Choice Care, or contact us at 01254 504905.