Everybody has different needs, requirements and preferences. This is certainly the case as people grow older, and many start to need some level of support in order to go about their daily lives. Some people will be able to remain in their own homes with the assistance of family, friends, carers and health services, whilst others may need to consider more long-term options such as moving into a facility where a greater degree of care is provided. Here is a summary of the main types of care which are available:

• Domiciliary (home) Care. This type of care allows people to remain in their own homes, retaining the majority of their independence. Support will be provided for the person by care workers, medical staff, charities or families in order to give them help in the areas where they’re struggling. Many of these services can be provided through the NHS on a short or long-term basis, for as long as required. However, private care is also an option. It’s likely to be a lot more flexible and there may be other related services which you can take advantage of, such as professional home cleaning or ironing. If needed, live-in care services are available to provide round-the-clock care.
• Respite care. If an elderly or vulnerable person needs regular domiciliary care but their carers need a break, respite care is usually the best option. There are plenty of care facilities which provide this service – perform an internet search or speak to a healthcare provider for more details.
• Sheltered accommodation. This tends to be for people who are beginning to need some extra support but who are still quite independent and mobile. There will usually be additional alarm systems in case of falls, and there may be some care facilities on site. There won’t be a great deal of care, however, and residents will live essentially independently.
• Retirement villages. These are similar to sheltered accommodation but usually have additional communal activities available. There is an emphasis on social living and leisure facilities may include anything from bars and restaurants to gyms, saunas and bowling greens.
• Care homes. These provide full-time living accommodation for residents who need more support on a regular basis. People who move into care home are usually too frail to live independently, or may be affected by conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia. There will be carers on hand all the time to assist wherever needed. If elderly people require medical care but don’t need to be in a hospital to receive it, there are also care homes which are suitable for them. Many homes will have varying levels of facilities, so that as residents grow older and have more complex care needs, they won’t have to move to a different premises. It’s also possible that people may stay in a care facility for a short period of time, for example, if they have an injury and need rehabilitation.

For any further details, speak to a healthcare provider, a charity or call a care facility directly. There is plenty of support out there – it’s just about finding the right level for the needs of you or your family members.