Extra Care Housing

Key Features of Extra Care Housing

1. Housing Options

• Residents live in self-contained apartments or bungalows within a purpose-built development.

• Homes typically include:

  • A bedroom, living area, kitchen, and bathroom.

  • Adaptations for accessibility, such as grab rails, wheelchair access, or wet rooms.

• Developments often have communal areas like lounges, gardens, and dining facilities.

2. Care and Support Services

• On-site care teams are available 24/7 to provide assistance as needed.

• Services offered include:

  • Personal care: Help with bathing, dressing, and medication management.

  • Practical support: Housekeeping, laundry, and shopping.

  • Social support: Encouragement to engage in activities and build friendships.

  • Emergency response systems for added safety and peace of mind.

3. Flexibility of Care

• Residents can adjust the level of care they receive based on changing needs.

• Suitable for people with minimal support requirements and those with more complex needs, such as mobility issues or mild dementia.

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Benefits of Extra Care Housing

1. Independence:

   • Residents have their own home, retaining autonomy and privacy.

2. Community Atmosphere:

   • Access to social activities and communal spaces reduces loneliness and isolation.

3. Safety and Security:

   • Developments are designed with safety in mind, including secure entrances and 24-hour staffing.

4. Cost Efficiency:

   • Extra care can be a more affordable alternative to residential care for those who need some but not intensive care.

5. Aging in Place:

   • Residents can remain in their homes even if their care needs increase, avoiding the need for a disruptive move.

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Who is Extra Care Housing For?

• Older adults, typically aged 55 and over, who want to combine independence with access to care.

• People with physical disabilities or long-term health conditions who need some support.

• Individuals who may feel isolated at home but do not need a care home environment.

• Couples, where one partner requires care but the other does not, allowing them to stay together.

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Funding for Extra Care Housing

1. Housing Costs:

   • Rent, service charges, and utility bills apply.

   • Housing Benefit or Universal Credit may cover some or all housing costs for eligible individuals.

2. Care Costs:

   • Care services are means-tested and may be funded by:

     • Local authorities following a care needs and financial assessment.

     • Self-funding for those above the financial threshold.

     • Direct payments or personal budgets for those managing their own care.

3. Purchase Options:

   • Some developments offer homes for purchase, shared ownership, or outright rent.

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Regulation and Oversight

• The Care Quality Commission (CQC) regulates the care services provided within extra care housing in England.

• Housing providers must meet standards for accessibility, safety, and maintenance.

• Local authorities often oversee the allocation of places in extra care schemes.

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Differences Between Extra Care Housing and Other Options

Feature	Extra Care Housing	Residential Care	Independent Living
Housing Type	Self-contained homes	Communal living in a care home	Private homes
Care Services	On-site, flexible	Provided as part of the service	Not included
Independence Level	High	Low	Very high
Community Facilities	Available	May have shared areas	Limited
Regulation	CQC (care only)	CQC	None

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Choosing an Extra Care Scheme

1. Location:

   • Proximity to family, friends, or amenities.

2. Facilities:

   • Assess communal spaces, gardens, and services available.

3. Care Services:

   • Ensure care plans can adapt to changing needs.

4. Costs:

   • Understand rental charges, service fees, and care costs.

5. Social Environment:

   • Look for a vibrant, welcoming community with opportunities for engagement.

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Conclusion

Extra care housing offers an ideal balance of independence, support, and community for older adults or individuals with care needs. It is a flexible and cost-effective option that promotes well-being, safety, and dignity while allowing residents to retain control over their lives.