Staying temporarily in a care home
The circumstances why you might want to stay in a came home temporarily include:
- to help you decide to if a particular care home would suit your needs on a permanent basis
- to aid your recovery after an illness or a stay in hospital
- as a break for you or your carer - this is sometimes called respite care
- as a break for you if you live alone
- to receive help and support if you have recently become disabled
It is not always easy finding a care home to stay at on a temporary basis. What some care homes do, however, is to keep some rooms to one side especially for short term stays.
The fees for temporary stays at care homes can vary a lot. If you cannot afford to pay the complete cost of your temporary care on your own, you can ask your local authority to assess you for respite care services. If you meet their criteria, they may be able you to help you to pay for it. Also, you may be able to claim benefits to help with the costs.
It's worth pointing out that carers are also entitled to an assessment for their own health needs. This may include help with short term care for the person they look after. Your health authority should pay for this.
Some care homes offer day care services for people who want to continue living at home. This care can be every day or just a few days a week.
Other care home advice articles in this section:
General Information about care homes
What to look for when choosing a care home
Care homes and how benefits are affected
What happens to your possessions when you move into a care home
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