Pros and cons of sheltered housing  

If you are considering home care, then you are probably also looking at other options. If you want to keep your independence then another solution could be sheltered housing. Whilst with domiciliary care you stay in your own home and a carer comes to help you with your daily life, sheltered housing is in a complex of flats, maisonettes or bungalows which have access to a warden and emergency call centres. 

Sheltered housing can be either council run or private. Whoever is running the elderly care scheme, the pros and cons will basically be the same. Advantages of sheltered housing as opposed to care in the home are: 

• The housing will be good quality and repairs will be paid for 
• All units have extra security, possibly entry phones, good quality locks and security lighting etc 
• Schemes will have support plans agreed with the warden, who may or may not live on-site 
• Sheltered housing units have 24 hour access to a Care Centre via a pull cord 
• You will be part of a community 

In addition, many sheltered housing schemes offer the following: 

• Communal lounge 
• Free laundry 
• Communal gardens with gardeners 
• Social activities 

There are, however, drawbacks to sheltered accommodation. The service charges can be high, whether you rent or buy your property. These will often include heating costs but not always, so make sure you check this. Most sheltered housing units are small and you may have to down-size. Pets are not always allowed, so if you have an animal you will need to check lease agreements carefully.  

Whether you decide to have domiciliary care in your home, or move into sheltered housing, you will be able to keep your independence for longer.