When the time comes, it can be traumatic when a loved one has to leave the family unit to be relocated into a residential care home. There are many elements to consider when choosing a care home for a family member; one has to take into account the location, the level of care needed, the desired facilities, the funds available, and most importantly the cost of living in the care home. Working out the care home costs can be a bewildering business, but here is your simple step-by-step guide to explain what care home costs consist of and how they are calculated for each individual. Your needs are assessed First and foremost, the individual’s needs are assessed in order to conclude what type of home they require. This is either residential care which offers accommodation, meals and personal care, or a nursing home which provides accommodation, meals and personal care but there is also at least one trained nurse on duty in order to care for the residents on a 24 hour basis. The assessment of needs is crucial in the process of choosing a care home and working out the relevant costs; it ensures that you are placed in an appropriate establishment that will best suit your needs. Your funds are assessed The next stage in working out the care home costs is an analysis of one’s income and capital. Income refers to the money which is regularly being received, including pensions and benefits. On the other hand, capital consists of savings, investments and the total value of one’s house. If you possess over £23,250 in capital you are considered as capable of paying your full care home costs. Or, if your capital works out to be £14,250 or under, your capital will be disregarded when working out how much you have to contribute to your care. ‘Pocket Money’ Regardless of the amount that is paid towards fees, the relocating resident will be left with £24.40 a week as a sort of pocket money to pay for miscellaneous personal purchases. Overall, the care homes costs differ greatly depending on the level of care required and where the care home is located in the country. It is always best to take a substantial amount of time to shop around for the most reasonable priced care home which fulfils the needs of the resident. It is also worth researching care homes in your local area as your local council may consider you to be eligible for funding.
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