Understanding the different types of senior housing
In the UK, senior housing encompasses a wide range of accommodation options, from independent living communities to highly supported schemes. The eligibility criteria differ for each, making it essential to understand the distinctions before applying. A key factor is the level of care and support offered. Some options cater to active, independent individuals, while others are for those with significant health and care needs.
Sheltered housing (Retirement Living)
Sheltered housing, also known as retirement living, is designed for active older adults who want to live independently within a supportive community.
Typical Eligibility Criteria
- Age: The minimum age is often 55, though some schemes require residents to be 60 or older.
- Independence: Applicants should be capable of living independently with minimal support.
- Residency: For council-owned or housing association properties, there may be a requirement for a local connection or being on a housing register.
- Disability: Some schemes may consider applicants aged 55 with a disability for entry to a scheme usually reserved for over 60s.
Extra care housing (Housing with Care)
This type of housing provides a higher level of care and support than sheltered accommodation, offering greater independence than a traditional residential care home. Residents live in their own self-contained flats but have access to 24-hour on-site care staff.
Typical Eligibility Criteria
- Age: The minimum age is commonly 55, but can be higher depending on the scheme.
- Care Needs: Applicants must have eligible care and support needs, as determined by a local council's Adult Social Care assessment.
- Local Connection: For council-run or housing association schemes, a local connection to the borough is often a requirement.
- Financials: Means-testing is standard for council-provided extra care, potentially including limits on income and savings.
Residential care homes
Residential care homes provide accommodation and personal care for older people who can no longer live independently. They are suitable for those with significant, round-the-clock care needs.
Typical Eligibility Criteria
- Care Needs Assessment: Eligibility is based on a care needs assessment by the local council to determine if a care home is the most appropriate setting.
- Financial Assessment: Local council funding is means-tested. If savings or assets exceed the threshold, the individual may be required to pay for their care.
- Terminal Illness: Eligibility criteria can be fast-tracked for those with a terminal illness.
Comparison of senior housing options
| Feature | Sheltered Housing | Extra Care Housing | Residential Care Home |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Independent flats/bungalows | Self-contained flats/apartments | Individual rooms in a communal building |
| Age Requirement | Usually 55+ or 60+ | Generally 55+, or 60+ depending on scheme | Varies, depends on need |
| Care Level | Low support; emergency alarm | Medium to high, 24/7 on-site staff | High, around-the-clock personal care |
| Independence | High degree of independence | Independent living with care available | Limited independence, highly supported |
| Provider | Councils, housing associations, private | Councils, housing associations, private | Private, local authorities, charitable |
| Cost | Rent, service charges, purchase cost | Rent, service charges, care costs, purchase cost | Weekly fees covering accommodation and care |
Factors affecting eligibility
- Financial Situation: For council or housing association schemes, income and savings are often assessed. For private retirement homes, there is no means-testing, but properties can be expensive.
- Local Connection: Many social housing providers require applicants to have lived in the local area for a set period. This can also apply to some extra care schemes.
- Disability or Health Needs: Being disabled or having a chronic health condition can make a person eligible for some housing schemes at a younger age.
- Couples: When a couple applies, typically only one partner needs to meet the age criteria. Extra care housing can be a good option for couples with different care needs.
How to apply
- Assess Your Needs: The first step is to evaluate your current and future needs regarding care, support, and independence. Consider your financial situation and preferred location.
- Contact Your Local Council: For social housing or extra care, contact your local council's Adult Social Care department to request a care needs assessment. If you have been assessed as having eligible needs, you may be added to the housing register.
- Explore Private Options: For private retirement housing, contact developers like McCarthy Stone or housing providers like Housing 21 directly to check their specific age requirements and availability.
- Consider Financial Support: Investigate financial support such as Housing Benefit or Pension Credit to help cover housing costs, especially for those with lower incomes.
Conclusion
Understanding who qualifies for senior housing in the UK depends heavily on the specific type of accommodation and the provider's criteria. While age is a common factor, eligibility can also involve care needs, disability, financial status, and local connections. Whether you seek independent living with light support, assisted living with 24/7 care, or a full-time residential care home, careful research and a formal needs assessment are crucial first steps. Prospective residents and their families should explore all options thoroughly to find the most suitable and secure home for their later years.
Shelter England: Suitable accommodation options for older people
