A guide to assisted Living and Costs in the UK

Assisted Living Costs and Facilities in the UK In March 2024

Contrary to common opinion, the term ‘Assisted Living’ does not just cover elderly assisted living homes or sheltered housing.

Rather, it encompasses a range of housing options. This includes residential assisted living for those over 55, as well as supported living for vulnerable adults.

A blend of independence and care, assisted living provides a community for those who need assistance provided in order to live their daily lives but who still crave autonomy.

On this page, we will explain:

  • What Assisted Living is and how it works
  • Questions you should ask yourself when looking at Assisted Living homes
  • 6 top tips on choosing  between Assisted Living facilities
  • Assisted Living costs
  • Alternative options you could consider

Topics that you will find covered on this page

Below we have answered the main questions you might have about assisted living.

What is Assisted Living in the UK?

There once were only a small number of limited options available to anybody needing or considering care in later life. As people begin to explore the range of care options the question of what is assisted living is increasingly being asked.

Yet recently a rapidly ageing population here in the UK has led to a number of innovative new solutions which have been developed to suit different types of care needs and individuals. These include Assisted Living or early retirement living as it is sometimes known.

With so many care options now available, it can be confusing and difficult to choose the type of care which best suits your needs and personal preferences.

At UK Care Guide we understand that any decision affecting your independence and lifestyle can be daunting, which is why we’ve compiled our helpful guides to different types of care.

In this section we discuss assisted living, and offer advice and guidance to help you determine whether assisted living accommodation might be suitable for you.

Here is a short video on how assisted living works and its benefits.

How does Assisted Living work?

Assisted living facilities provide housing and care services for older adults as an intermediate option between living completely independently and the comprehensive care of a nursing home.

This takes the shape of a home environment like a private apartment, where residents are still able to maintain some autonomy while receiving in-home essential care services.

It is important to note that residents in assisted living communities have private living quarters and access to 24-hour assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing and medication management.

Consequently, they can enjoy the freedom of living in their own space, but with the reassurance of support staff on hand. 

These facilities are often seen as more effective than sheltered accommodation as they provide more comprehensive care services. Many assisted living communities also offer communal facilities for residents to engage and socialise with each other, fostering a strong community spirit and consequently promoting a good quality of life.

Assisted living is not just for the elderly, as vulnerable adults of all ages can benefit from the services provided in these communities.

It is important to note that a suitable property can be supplied to suit each individual need, whether it is a younger person with a physical disability or a patient in recovery from a hospital stay.

ALthough assisted living offers more care than independent living, it is necessary to recognise that it provides less intensive medical support than skilled nursing facilities.

Consequently, ongoing health needs may eventually require transitioning from assisted living to nursing home care over time.

How to qualify for assisted living

Qualifying for assisted living, also known as supported living or assisted care living, typically involves several factors.

Start by assessing your care needs and determining if assisted living is the appropriate level of support.

Contact local authorities or social services departments to inquire about the application process for assisted living in your area. They can provide guidance on eligibility criteria, documentation required, and any assessments that may be necessary. 

The specific qualifications for assisted living can vary, but factors such as health condition, level of assistance required, and financial circumstances are often considered.

It’s advisable to gather the necessary information, complete the application, and follow the designated procedures to apply for assisted living and determine your eligibility for this supportive living option.

What are the alternatives to Assisted Living accommodation?

Due to the cost of assisted living, more and more people are looking at Live in Care as an alternative option.  It means that you get to stay in your home and get personalised 1 to 1 care.  You just won’t get this in an assisted living facility.

Here is a short video that explains how Live in Care works.

What help would I get at an assisted living facility?

Care offered at assisted housing facilities can range between help with basic everyday tasks (like cleaning and shopping) to more advanced care (personal care, medical attention) and caters for a variety of needs and requirements. What is on offer can vary between assisted living providers.

You’ll normally have 24 hour on call assistance and fitted alarms in each property, which can offer peace of mind for those who are infirm or have mobility issues. Care can be administered on a regular basis or one-off, as much or as little as you would like.

Often the facilities within the home are aimed at helping to make your life easier.  For example, you will often find electric or riser chairs.  These will help you as you get in and out of your chair.  More specifically, they are designed to help those with painful backs.

Choosing the Right Assisted Living Facility

It is crucial to choose an assisted living society that aligns with care needs, preferences, and the budget.

The best assisted living facility for you or your family member will depend on several factors which includes the level of necessary care services, the desired location, and the assisted living cost.

When selecting a facility, making the effort to visit many assisted living apartments is essential. This is because in-person visits will give you a feel for the actual environment of the facilities.

Looking for comfortable private rooms and stimulating shared spaces is a must, as is meeting staff members and speaking with other residents and their families to gauge their satisfaction with the services offered.

Furthermore, consider the location of the assisted living home in regard to its proximity to family, friends, and loved ones, and whether or not it is in a familiar area.

These elements can make a significant difference in the comfort and happiness of the inhabitants.

A full understanding of the expenses involved is essential, as assisting living costs can vary greatly depending on the provider. It is also necessary to include additional expenses such as council tax, energy bills, and service charges. 

Assisted living for couples

Assisted living for couples, also known as couples assisted living or supported living for couples, provides a supportive living environment for partners who wish to live together while receiving necessary care and assistance. 

Care homes for couples offer a range of services tailored to the unique needs of each individual, fostering companionship and allowing couples to maintain their relationship while receiving the appropriate level of care. 

These facilities aim to create a comfortable and inclusive atmosphere where couples can enjoy their lives together while benefiting from the support and assistance provided by professional care staff.

How much does assisted living cost for a couple?

The cost of assisted living for a couple can vary depending on factors such as location, level of care needed, and specific services provided. It is recommended to contact individual assisted living facilities for accurate pricing information tailored to couples.

Can you get assisted living for couples with dementia?

Yes, there are assisted living facilities that provide specialised care for couples with dementia. These facilities offer dedicated programs and services to support both individuals in the couple who are living with dementia.

Can you get assisted living for couples with different needs?

Assisted living facilities can accommodate couples with different needs. They are designed to provide personalised care based on individual requirements, ensuring that each person receives the appropriate level of support and assistance.

 

How much does assisted living cost?

The cost of assisted living in the United Kingdom varies substantially based on the services and care required, as well as the individual’s location. In general, living in a large city is more expensive, and assisted living is typically rather costly.

Depending on the degree of care required, an average month at a residential care home in London might cost around £4,000 per month. This includes services such as food, laundry, and community activities.

For those getting nursing care or requiring specialised help for conditions such as dementia or physical disability, this cost will be much greater, in some cases reaching £6,000 per month.

Outside of London, expenses are reduced, but still fairly expensive if you want specialised assistance or extensive care. Depending on the type of care required and location, residential care homes in the north of England may cost between £2,000 and £4,000 per month, while those in Scotland may cost between £2,500 and £4,000 per month.

There are additional expenses involved with assisted living, including home insurance, meals, and medications. It may be worthwhile to browse around for a package offer that includes all of these things and the basic cost of living.

The cost of assisted living in the United Kingdom can vary widely based on an individual’s circumstances and requirements, but it is typically more expensive than conventional housing and care.

Who would benefit from assisted living facilities?

Assisted living facilities are usually more appropriate for those with low-level care needs (which may or may not deteriorate), such as mobility issues, Alzheimer’s or memory loss.

The best thing to do if you feel you may need care provision now (or in the near future) is to speak to your GP or social worker, or a consultant if you have ongoing medical needs.

They may arrange a care needs assessment, which determines exactly which type of care you need and which will be best for you.

Here is a useful video that explains what a care needs assessment is and how it works.  Well worth a watch!

 

What to consider before moving into an assisted living facility?

Prior to deciding to move into an assisted living facility, a number of critical factors must be considered.

Here is a list of considerations.

Cost

As previously noted, the cost of assisted living can vary substantially based on the type and level of care needed. It is essential to calculate how much money you will require to live comfortably.

Location

Additionally, the location of your assisted care facility is essential. You should choose a location that meets your needs, whether that be proximity to family and friends or proximity to particular amenities such as shops and hospitals.

Services

Ensure that the facility you select offers the services you require, such as meals and laundry service if necessary. Some may even provide transportation or financial assistance.

Licensing

Additionally, you should ensure that the assisted living home you select is licenced and regulated by the local health authorities. This will ensure that all care services supplied are of a high standard and comply with all legal requirements.

By considering these aspects, you can locate an assisted living home that suits your needs and is within your financial means.

Legal Regulations for Assisted Living in the UK

Assisted living in the UK is strictly regulated to ensure the safety and well-being of residents, and so providers. This means that they are subject to regular inspection by local authorities, and must meet specific standards.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) oversees the regulation of assisted living facilities in England, and similar organisations are in place in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Legal requirements are associated with the various aspects of assisted living, including staffing levels, training requirements, and the physical environment.

These requirements are designed to protect residents, guaranteeing that they receive the necessary care.

There are also laws in place to protect resident rights, such as the right to dignity, the right to live without discrimination, and the right to choose their care.

When deciding on an assisted living facility, residents and their families or friends should be aware of these rights.

You can then use this along with your personal preference to choose whether assisted living care (or a different type of care altogether) is suitable for you.

However, despite this, lots of people choose to enter into assisted living facilities at an early stage, when they do not require additional care. This is because they feel comfortable being in a safe environment with the appropriate facilities, should they feel they need additional care provision in the future.

Where can you I find an assisted living facility?

You can find a list of assisted living providers on the internet – but often, this can be confusing and time-consuming.

Using a local directory or a dedicated website, such as here which lists only the most relevant results to you cuts down on time and ensures you’re more likely to find an assisted living facility which is right for you.

You can find some assisted living accommodation in our residential care home search section.

Furthermore, you can also use your favourite search engine to find an assisted living facility in your area. Just use keywords like ‘assisted living facility near me’ and other similar phrases to obtain more specific results. 

It’s also worth asking for personal recommendations from people you know. This ensures that you’re getting a personal perspective or word-of-mouth recommendation – both are much more valuable than advertising.

The biggest number of assisted housing facilities can be found in London.

"Some assisted living facilities that are near you are likely to be comprised of self-contained apartments, whilst others feature small houses or bungalows. These are safe, secure compounds which are often only accessible to residents and staff."

What are the different types of assisted living near me?

Some assisted living facilities near you are likely to be comprised of self-contained apartments, while others feature small houses or bungalows. These are safe, secure compounds which are often only accessible to residents and staff.

Some larger complexes have hairdressers, shops, cafes and leisure facilities on site.

Often there are gardens or outside areas you can enjoy – and some properties even have personal gardens so that you can continue to tend to your own space. All these amenities and facilities are available in assisted living retirement villages. These are perfect for retirees who don’t mind paying extra money for a comfortable and stress-free retirement living experience. 

Generally, retirement villages have several benefits. For instance, you can enjoy independent living within a property you own or rent.

You can also get the most out of social opportunities since you’ll be surrounded by other residents with interests similar to yours. If you’re concerned about your safety, assisted living retirement villages provide reliable security measures to keep everyone safe. In addition, if you need access to support, these facilities have 24/7 emergency care services. 

Can a person with dementia live in assisted living?

A person with dementia can live in assisted living with dementia care. Assisted living facilities often have dedicated units or programs specifically designed to provide specialised care and support for individuals with dementia. These facilities offer a safe and supportive environment where staff members are trained to understand the unique needs and challenges associated with dementia.

They assist with daily living activities, medication management, and engaging social activities tailored to the cognitive abilities of residents with dementia.

Assisted living with dementia care allows individuals with dementia to receive the necessary support while maintaining a level of independence and quality of life within a structured and compassionate environment.

Will I own or rent the assisted living property?

As an individual, you usually have the opportunity to own or rent your property independently.

Other options like shared ownership or lease schemes are sometimes available. There may be a service and maintenance charge and additional costs for care on top of your initial outlay or built into your rent or mortgage as appropriate.

This is the main advantage of choosing assisted living over residential care, as overall, the costs are lower when compared to residential or nursing care.

How can I pay for assisted living housing?

Paying for retirement living home is slightly different compared to residential or nursing care.

If you move into assisted housing you can use your PIP (Personal Independence Payment) or Attendance Allowance (if you are over 65) towards the monthly cost of maintenance and care.

However, if you are moving into assisted housing you’ll need to pay for the initial outlay (usually the purchase of your property) yourself.

This is something the government does not subsidise – this unfortunately means that it is not normally a viable option for those with low incomes and few assets or funds.

However, it may be possible for you to sell your existing home and purchase an assisted living property with plenty of cash to spare. You could then invest this in another property or into a savings account to help towards the cost of future care.

For more information on paying supported living fees, please read our section on the different way that you can pay your care costs.

You will find details of the 6 main ways in which you can typically meet your care fees, as well as details of the advantages and disadvantages of each option.  Getting this is right is really important, so we do strongly recommend that you read this.

Can I use equity release to pay for my care?

Equity release allows you to take money out of your home as a tax-free cash lump sum.

Here is a short video that explains how equity release works.

How much does the government pay for assisted living

Several factors influence how much the government spends for assisted living. The government of the UK offers financial support through a number of initiatives, including Local Authority financing, Attendance Allowance, and Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

Although the government may pay a portion of the cost of assisted living through these programmes, the precise amount depends on a person’s specific situation, including income, assets, and the degree of care required.

To ascertain the precise financial assistance offered for assisted living and to evaluate eligibility requirements, it is advisable to contact local authorities, social services departments, or appropriate government organisations.

How do I find out if I’m eligible for any benefits which can help towards the costs?

You can use certain benefits (like Attendance Allowance) towards the cost of assisted living, as well as any pension funds you may have.

To find out whether you’re eligible for benefits, it’s best to visit your local Age UK Centre or Citizens Advice Bureau, where somebody can help you to determine your current situation and can identify which benefits you’re entitled to.

They can also help you to fill out an application form. Your GP or another medical professional may need to carry out a care needs assessment or another kind of assessment to determine which benefits you can claim, and how much you will receive.

You can also find details of benefits available here on the UK Care Guide website and on the gov.uk website.

How is assisted living accommodation different from residential or nursing care?

Assisted living accommodation promotes a slightly different ethos than traditional residential or nursing care. The idea behind senior assisted living is for the individual to maintain independence and live independently or with a partner as they have done previously.

Individuals in assisted housing often directly own or rent the property they live in, which is of course, less expensive compared with comprehensive residential care.

Are assisted living homes the same as sheltered accommodation?

In lots of ways assisted living homes similar to the type of provision offered in sheltered accommodation.

Yet assisted living is a more modern take on sheltered accommodation and often assisted living homes are more contemporary and up-to-date. Additionally they’re usually larger than older sheltered accommodation units.

Can I opt for a senior assisted living home if I need nursing care?

Your eligibility for senior assisted living homes will depend on the severity of your care needs.

Although senior assisted living facilities do provide medical and nursing assistance, it is usually only appropriate for those with lower-level care needs. The philosophy of senior assisted living is independence, and residents are usually free to come and go.

Nursing care usually involves a lot of time spent inside with medical attention and attendance, so most assisted living homes are unequipped to take on individuals with intensive care needs.

How to find an assisted living facility

Several measures can be used to find an assisted living facility. Start by doing some research and compiling a list of suitable facilities in the area you choose. 

Take into account elements like location, services offered, price, and resident and their family feedback. Speak with each facility to learn about their services, admissions requirements, and availability. 

Visit the facilities that made the short list to evaluate their surroundings, personnel, amenities, and overall fit for your needs. During your trips, don’t be afraid to clarify things and ask questions. Additionally, seeking advice from medical experts, social workers, or neighbourhood senior services can be a great way to narrow down your search for the best assisted living facility.

How to find affordable assisted living facilities

In the UK, there are a number of ways to locate economical assisted care homes. Start by doing some research and building a list of suitable facilities in the area you choose.

Look for facilities that provide financial aid programmes that are offered just to UK citizens or that have cheap price choices. Inquire about the facilities’ fee schedules, including any subsidies or income-based choices that might be available to UK citizens.

Additionally, look into government-funded initiatives that can help pay for assisted living, such as Local Authority funding or benefits like Attendance Allowance or Personal Independence Payment.

Speaking with regional non-profits, community resources, and senior services organisations can help you learn more about the reasonably priced assisted living options available.

How do I choose which facility is right for me?

Many people who are looking at senior assisted living or home care as options, struggle to choose between the two – as both have particular benefits. Which you choose will come down to;

– your personal preference

– your financial status: and

– the future prognosis for your health

Your personal preference

Some key questions you need to consider, from a personal perspective, if you are thinking about moving into an assisted living home, include: 

  • Would you like to live with other people of a similar age group?
  • Would you like to take part in activities with others?
  • Is security and feeling safe in your home important to you?
  • Do you feel isolated and would like to get social?
  • Is general mobility an issue (perhaps you don’t drive), which means your independence is compromised where you live now?
  • Would your partner need more intensive care than you – would you prefer to stay together?
  • Alternatively, would you prefer to reside in your own home?
  • Do you have friends and family nearby?

Your financial status

Some key questions you need to consider, from a financial perspective, if you are thinking about moving in to an assisted living home, include:

  • Would you rather sell up and have money left over to contribute to your pension?
  • Is assisted living a more financially viable option when compared with residential care or home care?
  • Alternatively, is the prospect of assisted living too costly for you long-term?

The future prognosis for your health?

Some key questions you need to consider, from what the future holds perspective, if you are thinking about moving in to assisted living home, include:

  • Is your health (or your partner’s health) likely to deteriorate in coming years?
  • Is it best to settle in an appropriate environment early on rather than waiting until care is required?
  • Alternatively do you feel you’ll be able to live at home for a long time?

Considering the above questions should help you form a clearer picture of your current situation and prospective future needs.

You can then choose whether to opt for home care or assisted living. It’s worth noting that you can choose home care in the interim while deciding which retirement assisted living homes to choose or whether to move into assisted living at all.

What is the difference between retirement assisted living homes?

There is only one type of retirement assisted living – but all providers differ in their offering. Of course the location and environmental surroundings of assisted living facilities are different.  

Some providers allow you to ‘pay as you go’. In this situation you move to an assisted living facility and purchase your property and pay the basic fee for maintenance and additional services. You then pay or apply for additional care as it is needed – so you don’t waste money by paying for a full package early on.

If you are taking ill health retirement then these could be a good option for you.

What alternative options should I consider?

There are alternatives to assisted living, but they are quite different. The closest alternative (which still allows you to remain independent) is home care, and in particular live in care, or traditional sheltered accommodation.

Here is a short video that explains what Live in Care costs.

Aside from the above some providers also offer ‘Supported Housing’ schemes.

In these situations individuals or couples live independently in their own room or small flat. Unlike residential care you are free to come and go as you please and you’re normally situated near local amenities such as shops.

Carers will work with you as needed and you’ll also have access to 24 hour assistance. However it’s important to note that unlike assisted living you won’t have access to facilities on-site and accommodation may be smaller.

Again, which you choose comes down to your situation, personal preference and any financial constraints placed upon you.

If you don’t feel that assisted living is for you but are confused as to which other option may be more appropriate for you, speak to your GP or social worker, visit your local Age UK centre or take a look at our related articles on different types of care here.

Assisted Living for Vulnerable Adults

Vulnerable adults, such as the particularly elderly and those with physical disabilities or mental health conditions, benefit from assisted living that caters to their unique needs.

Assisted living homes for this group are designed to provide a safe and nurturing environment, allowing people to live independently and receive adequate care.

By living in flats or private rooms., assisted living residents gain a sense of autonomy.

At the same time, they have access to care services and appropriate support from trained staff. Again, this creates the compromise between independence and personalised health care which is still a key feature in assisted living for vulnerable adults. These homes are also often part of a larger assisted living community, allowing residents to socialise and participate in community activities.

What is the difference between sheltered housing and assisted living?

Sheltered housing and assisted living are two distinct types of accommodation that provide different levels of support to individuals.

Sheltered housing offers self-contained apartments or bungalows for independent living, along with on-site support and security measures. It is primarily designed for older adults and includes communal facilities, fostering a sense of community.

The average cost of sheltered accommodation can vary depending on factors such as location, size, and amenities. Private sheltered housing options are available for purchase or rental.

In contrast, assisted living provides higher support, including assistance with daily activities, medication management, and personal care services. It is suitable for individuals who require more significant assistance while still maintaining a degree of independence.

Assisted living generally costs more than sheltered housing due to the additional services and care provided.

Future of Assisted Living in the UK

The UK’s ageing population will likely increase demand for assisted living. This is because the popularity of care options which support independent living has grown, and facilities are expected to expand to meet these needs.

Technological innovations are also likely to play a significant role in the future of assisted living, as advancements in telecare can help to improve the quality of care and support independence. Additionally, solutions like remote health monitoring and on-demand video calls with staff will aim to increase engagement and safety. 

There is also a growing recognition of the importance of mental health and well-being in care, which is likely to influence the development of future assisted living communities.

Consequently, these communities will place greater emphasis on social activities and community spirit.

While it undoubtedly houses challenges, assisted living in the UK has a future of growth and evolution.

With the right support and resources in place, the scheme can provide a valuable solution for those who need assistance but are still determined to maintain their independence.

Living Services in Assisted Housing

Assisted housing is another form of assisted living accommodation, designed to support residents who need consistent help with daily living.

These services range from help with taking medication to assistance with meals and personal care. This allows residents to remain in their own homes or self-contained flats within the community.

Residents in assisted living housing are supported by a medical professional or care worker, who is on hand to provide assistance when it is needed, offering care that extends beyond basic tasks to focus on health and nursing care.

The presence of trained staff ensures that residents’ health and well-being concerns are addressed promptly.

Although the cost of these services is often included in the service charge for the assisted living residence, verifying the services included in these charges and what might incur additional costs is still essential. Consequently, cost transparency helps residents and their families to plan their care more effectively.

Communal areas, such as lounges or gardens, are common in assisted housing, allowing residents to socialise with one another and to participate in community activities.

These shared spaces are an integral part of creating a vibrant, supportive community that reduces any feelings of loneliness, and residents can enjoy their leisure time.

Furthermore, when touring potential assisted housing, getting a clear sense of staffing levels and care worker qualifications is key. Therefore, make sure to meet with staff to understand their training background and experience. However, higher staff-to-resident ratios and more extensive training typically come at a higher monthly cost.

Extra Care Housing and Its Benefits

Extra care housing is a form of assisted living accommodation offering increased care for those who need more extensive support, but who still wish to live in their own home or a self-contained flat. The support provided in extra care housing is personalised to meet the needs of each resident, often including the provision of personal care services such as help with bathing or medication.

Again, the combination of maintained dignity and the autonomy of independent living and the reassurance of readily-available care is the focal point.

Extra care facilities typically have an onsite scheme manager, offering a valuable point of contact for residents and families. They are responsible for overseeing daily operations and addressing resident concerns, as well as ensuring the appropriate delivery of care and services.

Whilst the accommodation in extra care housing can vary, it mostly takes the form of self-contained flats. This can provide residents with private space which is able to be decorated and furnished to individual tastes.

This contributes to a homely feeling that is extremely important for comfort and well-being within assisted living, enhancing residents’ comfort and well-being.

Senior Living and Personal Care Services

‘Senior living’ encompasses a range of living options designed for the needs of older adults, including assisted living care. These facilities are specifically designed to cater to the unique needs of seniors,  again offering a range of personal care services tailored to each individual’s requirements.

Care services in senior living include the same help with the daily tasks, with services provided by trained staff who respect the dignity and privacy of each resident.

Therefore, the staff help residents to maintain their independence while supplying them with necessary care and support.

Senior living facilities can often go beyond providing basic care by offering recreational activities, social events, and wellness programmes that focus on ameliorating the overall well-being of residents. These contribute to a richer and more fulfilling lifestyle for residents, consequently improving their physical and mental health.

In addition, many senior living facilities help residents to develop a financial plan by assessing funding options, depending on the services provided.

Financial assistance options from the local authority or other sources can be explored in an effort to make senior living more accessible for those who may not necessarily be able to afford it. 

How to rent assisted housing?

There are a number of online and in-person resources for renting assisted accommodation.

In the United Kingdom, Rightmove and Zoopla are excellent sites to begin your search for assisted living choices. These websites enable you to narrow your search by location, budget, size, and services provided by the facility.

In addition to these websites, numerous local authorities provide their own listings of assisted living facilities in the area.

It is advisable to contact them personally if you have particular questions about costs and services offered at each facility.

Finally, real estate agents with experience renting out assisted housing may be able to assist you in locating a suitable property.

How to buy assisted housing?

Purchasing assisted living accommodations is similar to purchasing a traditional home, but there are some additional considerations to keep in mind.

The initial step is to contact your local council for guidance on the types of homes available in your area and which will best fit your needs. You may also require support from a financial institution that specialises in assisting folks who are purchasing assisted housing.

It’s vital to understand that there may be unique laws for buying assisted properties, such as restrictions on who can live in them or limits on how long they can stay in the property.

You should also be aware of any government programmes that assist individuals in purchasing this type of housing.

Finally, it is essential to research and evaluate the quality of local service providers.

By considering these variables, you can purchase an assisted living residence that suits your demands in terms of pricing and location.

Additionally, ensuring the facility is professionally controlled and provides sufficient services for your needs can provide peace of mind. A suitable assisted living facility should be easy to find with the proper attention and study.

6 Tips on how to choose an assisted living provider?

There are many providers of private assisted living to choose from – so deciding which is best for you can be a daunting task. It’s best to adopt a targeted approach, considering several key factors before making a shortlist of the assisted living companies who you feel best suit you.

Tip 1. Identify your preferred location

The first thing to do is narrow down your choices by location. If you’d like to stay close to family and friends, you’ll need to search for an assisted care facility in your local area – or perhaps if you’d like to move closer to relatives you’ll need to search the area in which they currently live.

Tip 2. Decide what facilities you need

Some key questions you need to consider, from a facilities perspective, if you are thinking about moving in to assisted living include:

  • What facilities does this assisted living provider offer?
  • Is a fitness centre important to you?
  • Do you want to do your shopping within the complex?

From company to company the above can differ – and some may also be subject to tiered packages incurring separate costs. Certain mainstream providers will provide the same offering across the board.

Tip 3. Think about what help may you need in the future?

Is there room for manoeuvre in this assisted living facility should your care needs change? It’s best to choose somewhere you’ll be able to stay should your circumstances not remain the same. If you know your health or condition may deteriorate, consider options which allow flexibility for the future.

Tip 4. Work out what the Assisted Living facility will cost you?

Cost will of course be a factor when you choose a care provider. You should be able to obtain quotes from facilities based on your independent circumstances.  We strongly recommend that you consider all options available to you when it comes to paying for your care.  So many people pay more than they need to

Tip 5. Read some reviews of assisted living providers

Before making your shortlist, it’s a good idea to check comments made by those already using the company in question. This way you can ensure that you are getting the high quality service they promote.

You can also check some reliable third-party review websites to know what other clients have to say about your prospective assisted living providers. 

Tip 6. Find out if there are there any rooms available?

Some assisted living homes unfortunately get booked up quickly. Occupancy rates vary and naturally people come and go if they need to move to a nursing home or unfortunately pass away – but generally occupants stay for life.

Check availability before anything else – as you could be disappointed if you find your shortlisted facilities are all full and have long waiting lists.

Once you’ve made your shortlist, you should then arrange visits to each facility you’ve chosen. You should try to turn up on spec, as this way you won’t be shown a ‘false’ impression of the environment you’ll be living in. Bear in mind that you may need to book to view a property within the facility.

What else do you need to know?

The five most important things that you can do as you are moving to care are:

a) Make a Will 

This will help ensure you determine what happens to your assets.  If you don’t make a will the government will decide what happens to your money and assets. Remember that with a will, you can name your heirs or beneficiaries and designate which properties go to each of them after your death, thereby giving you peace of mind about their financial future. 

Working with a lawyer may be an excellent idea if you’re drafting a will for the first time. They can ensure your will follows the legalities required by the laws of your country for it to be valid. You may also get a will-writing service online to help you with the drafting.

You can read more about what will writing services offer here.

b) Create a Lasting Power of Attorney 

This will help ensure that should your mental health deteriorate there is someone in place to make decisions on your behalf.

We strongly recommend that you read this section as there are two types of powers of attorney that you need to consider.  These are a health and welfare power of attorney and a property and financial affairs power of attorney.

Here is a short video on the benefits of  property and financial affairs power of attorney.

d) Undertake Estate Planning

If you have any assets, you will no doubt have some thoughts about where you want these to go when the time comes.  You can read more about the things you need to think about with regard to Estate Planning here.  You may also find our article on avoiding inheritance tax interesting.  There are a number of perfectly legitimate routes that you can undertake if you wish to minimise the tax that is paid to the government when the time comes,

In addition, the person that is responsible for dealing with your estate will need to get Probate.  This will therefore allow that individual to carry out your financial and legal wishes.   You can read more about what it is and Probate costs here.

e) Consider putting your assets and house into a trust

Whilst it is impossible to put your property and assets into a trust to avoid care home fees, it is perfectly possible for you to put them into a trust for other reasons.  These include ensuring that you determine who owns your property on your death etc.    The three main types of trusts that people consider are:

    • Protective Property Trusts – They allow you to save a portion of your property to pass on to loved ones. They are also known as ‘Property Trust wills’
    • Life Interest Trusts – Allows you to allocate a beneficiary (usually yourself and/or a spouse or family member) who then has the legal right to receive income from or use a property named in the trust
    • Interest in Possession Trusts – It’s a kind of trust fund set up to entitle the beneficiary to any income as soon as it is produced.  They are very similar to Life Interest Trusts.

Meet the author

Jane Parkinson

Jane Parkinson

Jane is one of our primary content writers and specialises in elder care. She has a degree in English language and literature from Manchester University and has been writing and reviewing products for a number of years.

Meet The Team

UK Care Guide - A trusted resource

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Assisted Living in the UK?

There once were only a small number of limited options available to anybody needing or considering care in later life. As people begin to explore the range of care options the question of what is assisted living is increasingly being asked.

Yet recently, a rapidly ageing population here in the UK has led to a number of innovative new solutions which have been developed to suit different types of care needs and individuals.

What are the alternatives to Assisted Living accommodation?

Due to the cost of assisted living, more and more people are looking at Live in Care as an alternative option.  It means that you get to stay in your home and get personalised 1 to 1 care.  You won’t get this in an assisted living facility.

How much does assisted living cost?

The cost of assisted living in the United Kingdom varies substantially based on the services and care required, as well as the individual’s location. In general, living in a large city is more expensive, and assisted living is typically rather costly.

Depending on the degree of care required, an average month at a residential care home in London might cost around £4,000 per month. This includes services such as food, laundry, and community activities.

For those getting nursing care or requiring specialised help for conditions such as dementia or physical disability, this cost will be much greater, in some cases reaching £6,000 per month.

Outside of London, expenses are reduced, but still fairly expensive if you want specialised assistance or extensive care. Depending on the type of care required and location, residential care homes in the north of England may cost between £2,000 and £4,000 per month, while those in Scotland may cost between £2,500 and £4,000 per month.

Share this page


How to pay for your assisted living costs

There are a number of options when it comes to paying for your assisted living costs.  Our guide sets out the options to paying for care

Find an assisted living provider

Use our search facility to look for care homes that may offer assisted living facilities.