Are You Paying Too Much for a Care Home? Discover the Hidden Fees!
Care home fees can feel like a minefield – one price on the brochure or website and a whole bunch of hidden costs that catch you off guard later.
While most fees cover accommodation and food, where you live, the type of care you need and even extras like haircuts or outings can all add to your fees. So, how do you know if you’re getting a fair deal or paying too much? Keep reading to learn more about the factors affecting care home costs and how to avoid overspending.
What Factors Affect the Cost of a Residential Care Home?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to care home fees. The cost can vary massively based on several circumstances. Here’s what you need to know:
Location
Residential homes in London and the South East of England? Expect to pay a lot more than care homes in the North or rural areas. It’s a simple case of supply and demand.
Type of Care Needed
The more care you need, the more it’ll cost. Residential care is less expensive than nursing care, which includes more medical support. Read about how healthcare is handled in care homes to learn more.
Quality of the Home and Facilities
Not all care homes are created equal. Some offer luxurious settings, private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, gardens and even on-site salons – these are the higher-end homes and you’ll pay for that extra comfort. A home with basic facilities will cost less but still provide essential care.
Extras and Services
Don’t forget the ‘extras’. Hairdressing, outings, beauty treatments and even certain therapies are usually not included in the base fee. These little add-ons can stack up, so it’s worth asking management what’s included and what costs extra.
What’s Typically Included in Care Home Fees?
Only some things will be covered in the standard costs unless you opt for a premium, all-inclusive care home. Here’s what you can generally expect to be covered:
Accommodation and Meals
Your set fee covers a room, all daily meals and utilities like heating and electricity. Meals are provided throughout the day, but check that catering for special diets come at no extra cost.
Personal Care and Support
This includes help with daily tasks like dressing, bathing and medication. Care homes provide staff to assist residents with these needs.
Basic Activities
Most homes offer social activities like games, movie nights or exercise, which are usually included in the fee. However, off-site trips or events just might incur an extra charge.
Healthcare Services
While general medical care is covered, specialist care, like dementia support or physiotherapy, often costs extra. Always check what’s included.
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How to Avoid Hidden Fees and Save on Care Home Costs
Hidden fees often pop up in areas you don’t expect. But don’t worry, there are ways to avoid these surprises and keep costs under control.
Some practical tips:
Ask for a Detailed Breakdown
Before committing to a care home, ask for a total breakdown of what’s included and what costs extra. It’s not always apparent that some services within the home might come with an additional charge. By knowing this upfront, you’ll avoid being hit with surprise bills.
Plan for Long-Term Care
Care home stays often last longer than expected, so planning for the long haul is a smart move. Ask the care home team how often and by how much fees increase. Some homes adjust their fees annually, so budgeting for potential increases helps to avoid financial strain later.
Explore Funding Options
Your loved one might be eligible for local authority funding or NHS Continuing Healthcare. Even if you don’t qualify for full coverage, partial financing can significantly reduce costs. It’s also worth looking into deferred payment agreements if you own a property, allowing you to cover fees without immediately selling any assets.
Negotiate the Fee Structure
You might not know this, but some care homes are open to negotiation, especially for optional services. You can get discounts for long-term stays or package deals that bundle in services like laundry or outings. It doesn’t hurt to ask!
Keep an Eye on Extras
Extra services that sound appealing but can quickly add up, such as beauty treatments, personal shopping and hosting private events, can all have hefty price tags. Decide what’s really necessary, skip the extras or find cheaper alternatives to save money.
Take Control of Care Home Costs
Managing care home costs doesn’t have to be overwhelming when you know what to look out for. Remember, hidden fees don’t have to surprise you – by being proactive and exploring funding options, you’ll be well-prepared to make smart, cost-saving decisions for you or your loved one’s care.
