For families navigating the transition to long-term care, understanding the criteria for nursing home placement in the UK is crucial. Whether it’s due to physical frailty, cognitive decline, or lack of home support, the decision is never easy, but knowing the formal process can ease the journey.
This guide outlines the eligibility requirements, how assessments work, and what steps to take to secure the right care for your loved one.
Who Needs a Nursing Home? Understanding the Criteria
In the UK, nursing home placement typically involves both health needs and personal care assessments. A person may be eligible if they:
- Require 24-hour supervision and medical support
- Struggle with mobility, feeding, dressing, or personal hygiene
- Have complex conditions like advanced dementia, Parkinson’s, or stroke recovery
- Face risks when living alone, even with home help
Placement decisions are made after a Care Needs Assessment conducted by the local authority.
Nursing Home Eligibility Criteria at a Glance
| Assessment Area | Criteria | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Needs | Severe mobility issues, risk of falls, incontinence | Frequent falls, unable to bathe or use toilet alone |
| Cognitive Impairment | Advanced dementia, memory loss, disorientation | Wandering, safety risks, forgetting meals/meds |
| Medical Needs | Ongoing clinical supervision required | Feeding tubes, wound care, catheter management |
| Social/Environmental Risk | Living alone without adequate support | Neglect, missed medication, isolation |
| Carer Breakdown | When carers can no longer cope | Spouse/child overwhelmed or physically unable |
How to Start the Process
-
Contact the Local Authority
Request a Care Needs Assessment from adult social services. -
Assessment Visit
A social worker or nurse will assess daily living needs and risks. -
Financial Assessment
If care is needed, a means test will determine how it’s funded. -
Placement Planning
If eligible, the authority may propose nursing home placement options.
Who Pays for Nursing Home Care?
In the UK, nursing home care may be:
Fully self-funded (if assets exceed £23,250 in England)
Partially funded by the local authority (subject to financial assessment)
NHS Continuing Healthcare covers full costs for complex medical needs
Funded Nursing Care offers £219.71/week (2024 rate) for eligible residents
FAQ – Criteria for Nursing Home Placement in the UK
Is a doctor’s recommendation required for nursing home placement?
Not always, but it strengthens the case. The local authority’s care needs assessment is key.
Can someone with dementia go into a nursing home?
Yes. If dementia is advanced and personal care needs are high, a nursing home may be appropriate.
What’s the difference between a care home and a nursing home?
Nursing homes provide medical care by qualified nurses. Care homes offer personal care without 24/7 nursing.
What if the person refuses to move?
If they have mental capacity, their consent is required. If not, decisions must follow the Mental Capacity Act.
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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