Private Elderly Care: What Is It and How Can It Help?

Finding the right care for an older loved one is an important decision. Families often consider private elderly care when they want to explore care options that provide professional support, comfortable accommodation and a personalised approach to their loved one’s needs.

But what does private elderly care actually mean, what does it include, and how can you choose the right care home?

In this guide, we explain what private elderly care is, the types of support available and what to consider when looking for care for yourself or a loved one.

What Is Private Elderly Care?

Private elderly care generally refers to care services that are arranged and paid for privately rather than being fully funded by a local authority or the NHS.

This may include residential care in a care home, nursing care or care provided in someone’s own home. In a care home, residents can receive support with everyday tasks while benefiting from accommodation, meals, activities and opportunities to socialise.

The term private care can therefore describe how care is funded rather than a specific type of care.

If someone pays for their own care, they are often described as a self-funder. According to the NHS, people can choose to arrange and pay for their care themselves, although they can still ask their local council for a needs assessment.

What Does Private Elderly Care Include?

The exact services available depend on the care provider and the individual resident’s needs. Residential elderly care may include:

• Personal care and assistance with daily routines
• Support with dressing, washing and other personal tasks
• Medication support
• Nutritious meals and refreshments
• Housekeeping and laundry
• Social activities and entertainment
• Opportunities to enjoy hobbies and interests
• Support with maintaining relationships with family and friends
• 24-hour care and assistance where required

Personal care is a regulated activity in England when it is provided to people who are unable to provide it for themselves because of old age, illness or disability.

What Are the Benefits of Private Elderly Care?

Choosing private elderly care can offer several benefits for older people and their families.

Personalised Support

A good care home will take the time to understand each resident as an individual. Care can be tailored around their needs, preferences, routines and interests rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.

Professional Care and Support

Care homes provide trained staff who can support residents with everyday activities and personal care. Having professional support available can also provide reassurance to family members.

A Safe and Supportive Environment

Moving into a care home can provide an environment designed around the needs of older people, with appropriate support available throughout the day and night.

Social Opportunities

Loneliness and social isolation can be a concern for older people living alone. Care homes provide regular opportunities to meet other residents and take part in activities.

From baking clubs and arts and crafts to music, games and afternoon tea, meaningful activities can help residents continue enjoying their hobbies and interests.

Peace of Mind for Families

Knowing that a loved one has access to professional care and support can provide valuable reassurance for family members, particularly when their care needs have increased.

Private Elderly Care vs Care Funded by the Council

One of the main differences between private elderly care and council-funded care is how the care is paid for.

In England, a local authority can carry out a needs assessment to determine what care and support someone may require. A financial assessment can then establish whether the person is eligible for financial assistance towards their care costs.

Alternatively, someone can choose to pay for their own care without asking the council to arrange it. The NHS refers to this as self-funding.

It is important to remember that private elderly care does not necessarily mean a different standard or type of care. Private care describes the way the service is arranged or funded, while the actual care provided depends on the individual provider and their services.

How Much Does Private Elderly Care Cost?

The cost of private elderly care varies considerably depending on factors such as:

• The location of the care home
• The type of accommodation
• The level of care required
• Whether nursing care is required
• The facilities and services provided
• The activities and lifestyle options available

For this reason, it is important to ask care homes for a clear breakdown of their fees and what is included before making a decision.

Families should also ask whether there are additional charges for particular services or changes in care needs.

How Do You Choose the Right Private Care Home?

Choosing a care home should involve more than simply comparing prices. It is important to consider whether the environment, care and lifestyle are right for the individual.

Consider the Location

A care home that is convenient for family and friends can make regular visits easier and help residents maintain important relationships.

Look at the Care Available

Ask about the types of care provided and whether the home can support your loved one’s current and potential future needs.

Visit the Care Home

A visit can give you a much better idea of what life is like at the home. Pay attention to the atmosphere, cleanliness and how staff interact with residents.

Ask About Activities

Find out what activities are available and whether residents have opportunities to continue their existing hobbies and interests.

Check the Care Home’s CQC Information

If you are looking for a care home in England, you can use the Care Quality Commission (CQC) to find information about care services, including inspection reports and ratings.

The CQC is the independent regulator of health and social care in England, and its website allows families to search for care homes and compare information about services.

Talk to Staff and Residents

During a visit, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Speaking with staff and, where appropriate, residents and their families can help you understand what everyday life is really like.

Is Private Elderly Care Right for Your Loved One?

There is no single care solution that is right for everyone. The best option will depend on an individual’s care needs, preferences, circumstances and financial situation.

For some older people, remaining at home with support may be appropriate. For others, increasing care needs may mean that a residential care home offers a safer and more supportive environment.

The most important thing is to consider the person’s wellbeing, dignity, independence and quality of life alongside their practical care needs.