In the UK, care can be provided either in your own home or in a residential setting. While both options involve financial assessments, the rules about which assets are included and how costs are calculated differ significantly.
This article explains the key differences between paying for care at home and paying for care in a care home, so families can make informed decisions.
Financial Assessments for Care
A financial assessment determines how much an individual contributes toward the cost of care. It takes into account:
Savings and income – always included in both types of care.
Property value – treated differently depending on whether care is at home or in a care home.
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Paying for Care at Home
When receiving care at home:
- Your property is not included in the financial assessment, as you continue living in it.
- Only your savings and income are taken into account.
- In Scotland, councils may disregard part of your savings when calculating contributions if you are above State Pension age.
This means that care at home usually protects the value of your property, making it financially less demanding for many families.
Paying for Care in a Care Home
When moving into permanent residential care:
- Your savings, income, and property assets are usually included in the financial assessment.
- Certain exemptions apply: if a spouse, partner, dependent child, or relative over 60 lives in the home, the property is not counted.
As a result, the financial contribution required for care in a care home is often higher than for care at home.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Care at Home | Care in a Care Home |
|---|---|---|
| Property Value | Excluded from assessment | Included (unless exempt) |
| Savings and Income | Always included | Always included |
| Living Arrangements | Remain in your own home | Move to residential setting |
| Financial Impact | Protects property value | Often requires greater personal contribution |
Which Option Is Right for You?
The choice between home care and care in a care home depends on:
- Level of care needs.
- Availability of family or community support.
- Financial circumstances and eligibility for local authority funding.
For some, care at home offers independence and asset protection. For others, residential care may be necessary to meet more complex needs.
FAQ – Paying for Care at Home vs Care in a Care Home
Is my home counted in a financial assessment?
Only if you move into permanent residential care. For home care, your property is excluded.
Do savings and income always count?
Yes. Both are included regardless of whether you receive home care or residential care.
Are there exemptions for property in care home assessments?
Yes. Property is not counted if a spouse, partner, dependent child, or elderly relative lives there.
Which option is more affordable?
Care at home often costs less in terms of financial assessment, but care needs and service levels may vary.
Can my financial status change over time?
Yes. If your savings decrease, you may move from self-funding to partial or full local authority support.
Need help finding a care home?
Senior Home Plus offers free personalized guidance to help you find a care facility that suits your health needs, budget, and preferred location in the UK.
Call us at 0203 608 0055 to get expert assistance today.
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