There are several housing options open to the elderly.
i Adapt existing housing
ii Sheltered housing
iii Residential / Nursing Home
iv Moving in with Family
Adapt existing housing
Most elderly people would prefer to stay in their own home if at all possible. For many it is possible if adaptations are made which ensure that they can live safely and comfortably. Examples are stair lift, bath hoist, shower unit, specially designed kettles, plugs, taps, telephones with flashing lights or door entry systems
Sheltered housing
This option provides elderly people with a self contained flat which they can live independently but with the added security of a 24 hour warden service and communal lounge facilities
Housing in these complexes is specially designed to meet their needs. They feature
two way intercom connected to warden's office
compact apartment on one level
lifts available to all floors of complex
emergency alarms throughout
visitor facilities
organised social events
TV licence and heating bills included
Demand for sheltered housing is high and although the number of spaces has increased but cannot meet demand. There is a need for additional investment.
Very sheltered housing provides all of the above facilities as well as providing meals, housework and some care needs.
Residential / Nursing homes
Run by local councils, voluntary groups or private companies
They cater for the special needs of the elderly
This option is suitable for an elderly person who cannot live independently and requires a great deal of support
Nursing and Residential homes provide : a bedroom, regular meals, no worries about bills, no shopping or household chores, company of other elderly people, regular doctors visits
Only Nursing Homes provide : a nurse on duty, specially selected nursing staff who are aware of the needs of elderly people, 24hour nurse call facilities in each bedroom, specially designed diets to meet any medical requirements
4. Cost of Care
Fees in nursing homes can be as little as �20 000 rising to �40 000 in upmarket establishments. Those who have the financial means are expected to meet the cost of care.
In Scotland, government has suggested that nursing home residents will qualify for
up to �65 per week nursing care (money goes direct
up to �90 per week personal care to home)
5. Latest info on the elderly
From the latest census (2001) the statistics show that there are more people over 60 than under 16. There are now 1 million people over the age of 84 in the UK. The cost of staying in a residential home is between �200 and �800 per week
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