A point in time may arise when the person with dementia will require 24/7 professional care. This will most likely be delivered by a care home with trained Health Professionals on hand.
Selecting a care home
Choosing a care home is important, as not all offer dementia beds. The key term to look out for is ‘Category of Care’. Some care homes may only offer Residential Dementia and not Nursing Dementia, which is worth taking into considering.
Research is vital, as you may find that many care homes operate a waiting list. Arranging viewings is well worth doing, as it will help you get a feel for the care home.
Another key component of your research should be to check the regulators most recent inspection report. Normally unannounced, the inspection will provide an independent report on the care and services of the home. The regulatory bodies for the UK are:-
- RQIA in Northern Ireland
- CQC in England
- Care Inspectorate in Scotland
- Care Inspectorate in Wales
The reviews and comments on independent websites can provide a helpful insight into the residents’ and their families thoughts.
How much does it cost?
The weekly fee is often a combination of Bed Rate and 3rd Party Top Up.
Bed Rate – determined by the Department of Health for the local area, this is typically reviewed annually in April. There is a set amount for Residential Care and a set amount for Nursing Care.
3rd Party Top Up – determined by the care home operator, this is often linked to the quality of the accommodation, activities offered and the care offering. For example, this could be a higher ratio of staff or an extensive activities programme.
Local Health Trust operated care homes typically do not charge a 3rd Party Top Up. Almost all independent care homes will charge a 3rd Party Top Up.
How does the funding work?
Payment is Means Tested on an individual basis, with the assessment undertaken by the local health trust. Their assessment normally considers the individual’s Income and Capital.
- Income will typically include (1) interest on savings; (2); pension income (private & state); and (3) any social services benefits.
- Capital will typically include (1) savings; (2) investments; and (3) property (which includes primary dwelling house).
For more information check out the authority’s website – Northern Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales.
