The care they need independence

Sheltered housing is specially designed for older people and there are many different types of schemes. Some will have a scheme manager or warden living on or offsite. All should provide 24-hour emergency help through an alarm system.

Sheltered housing is appealing to those who wish to remain independent, but in a smaller and easier-to-manage home. There is the added reassurance of an emergency alarm or responsible person to turn to for help.

Accommodation is usually self-contained, with communal areas like the lounge, laundry room and garden. Many schemes run social events for residents.

Rented sheltered housing may be available through local authorities and housing associations. Care homes provide more personal care. They sometimes offer nursing care too. There is staffing around the clock with all meals provided. Moving to a care home may seem a huge step. The benefits are a safe and comfortable place to live and making new friends.

If the local authority considers that support is needed and can provide the service, it may also carry out an assessment of a person’s finances.

This assessment will determine whether the local authority will meet all the cost of the care, or whether the person or their family will need to contribute towards the care cost or whether they will have to pay the full costs. Personal care workers and assistants are people who come into your home and help with your own personal care or everyday household tasks. This service can often help you become more independent in your daily life.

Or you may just need someone to visit you. Loneliness often makes staying at home more difficult.

For more personal care, such as help with bathing or using the toilet, there are different sorts of care workers and personal assistants.

You can find out what sort of care workers are available in your area from Kent County Council’s care directory.

For more on social care help from Kent County Council, call 03000 416161 or email social.services@kent.gov.uk