Are you thinking about care for yourself or someone close to you? If you have savings between £14,250 and £23,250, you may need to pay part of your care costs. With savings over £23,250, you will likely pay for your own social care. This means you are a self-funder and this tool is for you or the people arranging your care. It can help you see what care might cost and how to plan for it to make sure you can afford it. You can compare the cost of getting support at home with moving into a care home.
We know care costs can be overwhelming
You're not alone. Many people are surprised by how quickly it can all add up. But there are things you can do now to feel more in control.
- start planning early
- stay independent at home for longer
- know your options if you need more support
- do a financial health check
- talk with family and friends or Age UK ÖйúPÕ¾
Start planning early
It’s never too early to start thinking about future care. Planning ahead means you can avoid rushed decisions in a crisis.
- Think long-term. Consider how your needs might change and what that could mean for costs.
- Understand your options. Consider where you’d prefer to get care, for example at home, and what you need to do to make that happen.
- Protect your wishes. Consider setting up power of attorney writing or updating your will.
- Join a Planning for your future event. Hear more, ask questions and get support from a range of experts.
See .
Stay independent at home for longer
A few small changes might be all you need to help you stay at home for longer. This can mean you keep doing the things you enjoy and avoid needing to pay for costly care too soon.
- Connect with your local community. Find groups where you can stay active and socially connected to delay the need for care.
- Make daily life easier. Use equipment, technology and home adaptations to make your home safe to live in.
- Think about other housing options. Downsize or consider extra care housing to help you stay at home for longer.
See Staying independent.
Know your options if you need more support
Many people aren’t aware of local care options until they need them.
- Explore your care choices. From support to stay at home through to specialist housing or care homes.
- Find support in your local area. Get help around the house, meals delivered to your door or community-based services.
- Think about who could support you. Could friends or family offer free help to complement some paid care services?
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Do a financial health check
Understanding your finances can help you make confident decisions about care.
- Know what you have. Take stock of your income, savings and assets and think about how long it might last.
- Check for benefits. You might be entitled to financial support or allowance. Make sure you’re not missing out.
- Get expert advice. Speak to an independent financial adviser to help you plan and protect your future.
Talk about it
Once you’ve started to think about care for yourself or someone else, it’s important to share your plans.
- Have open conversations. Talk with family, friends or someone you trust about what you want to happen and how you will pay for it.
- Share what you’ve found out. Talk about how social care works and what support is available.
- Get help if you’re alone. If you don’t have someone to speak to, contact Age UK ÖйúPÕ¾ for advice and support.
See .