Pictured above: Sofia Tayton
A loved one going into care can be an agonizing experience for
families, says Sofia Tayton, a solicitor and associate in the
private client department of Stratford-upon-Avon law firm
Lodders.
Remembering how mum or auntie had once been so active and
watching them deteriorate would be upsetting to anyone.
But, warned Mrs Tayton, family and friends should not lose sight
of the things that could be done to ease the journey through the
complexities of multiple agencies, such as the GP, the local health
service, social services and care home operators.
"It is important to explore all the options particularly when
care can cost so much and denude an elderly person of their savings
very rapidly.
"But things can be done to help and advice is available. In
particular, the family solicitor is there for them."
Mrs Tayton said anyone going into a care home, whether a
residential or nursing home, should get assessed by their local
council.
"It is important to ascertain the state of their health before
worrying about financial issues."
Mrs Tayton said how much a local authority might pay would be
related to individual medical needs. Also, under the continuing
care programme, those with severe health needs should qualify for
NHS funding.
And the Registered Nursing Care Contribution, attendance
allowance and disability living allowance all need to be
explored.
Those with assets of more than £23,250, usually including
the family home, will not get help towards care costs.
But the house doesn't come into it if a spouse, partner or
relative aged 60 or over is living there.
However, a person going into care also has their income assessed
including any state or private pension, and they may have to make a
contribution.
"All this is complex at the best of times," said Mrs Tayton.
"But we do our best to cut through the red tape and ease the
transition. Old people and their relatives do not have to be left
out in the cold."
For more information about Lodders, please visit their website
here: www.lodders.co.uk