Growing older together is something that many couples hope for. However, when one or both partners require extra support and assistance, questions about living arrangements often arise. One common concern is whether care homes can accommodate couples who wish to stay together.
In this article, we examine whether care homes accept couples, identify considerations that may influence this arrangement, outline practical tips for couples contemplating a move into a care home, and explain how Swarthmore Care Home can support couples in making this decision.
Key Takeaways
- While it’s relatively uncommon for couples to move into a care home together, it can be arranged in certain circumstances. Availability is often limited, and each situation is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Factors to consider include individual care needs, desired living arrangements, health and safety, and costs.
- Tips for couples looking for a care home together include planning ahead, researching a variety of homes, viewing potential homes, considering finances, and seeking expert guidance.
- Swarthmore Care Home provides person-centred care in a warm, welcoming environment. Couple accommodation options are reviewed individually to ensure comfort and compatibility.
Do Care Homes Accept Couples?
It can be discussed and arranged in particular circumstances. Availability for couples is often limited, and each situation is assessed on a case-by-case basis to ensure both partners can be supported safely and comfortably.
Below, we outline key considerations that couples and their families should discuss when thinking about a joint move into a care home.
What Are the Care Needs of Each Partner?
The first step is determining the level of care each person requires. Care homes assess each partner individually to see whether they can both be supported appropriately and safely.
Often, one partner may be in more need of professional care than the other, as they are at different stages of health. It may be after discussing the options, that the care home recommends separate rooms so the levels of care can be provided without disturbing each other.
Can Couples Share a Room in a Care Home?
Certain care homes may offer double or adjoining rooms so couples can stay together and maintain a sense of closeness. However, the majority of care homes are designed with individual occupancy in mind, and therefore, shared rooms are relatively rare, with demand often high.
When a shared room isn’t possible, care homes may provide couples with nearby rooms within the home, such as in an adjoining area, so partners can easily and frequently visit each other. Staff can also help plan daily activities and routines to help the couple spend more time together while still receiving the care they need.
It is also common for couples to prefer separate rooms, particularly if they have value privacy or have varied care needs and daily routines. Separate rooms can feel more familiar and relaxing, especially if the couple is used to having their own bedrooms at home.
What Are the Health & Safety Considerations?
Certain health conditions, such as advanced dementia, mobility challenges, or complex medical needs, may make it unsafe or difficult for both partners to live in the same setting together. Care homes carefully assess each situation to identify any possible risks and determine how best to support both parties.
In some cases, it may be feasible for the couple to stay together with extra assistance or rooms located close to each other within the home. In others, moving in together may not be a safe option, and only one partner may initially move in. However, even in this situation, care homes will support couples in maintaining contact and facilitating regular visits.
Is It Affordable for Couples to Move Into a Care Home?
Whether a care home is financially viable for both partners is an essential consideration.
If you are unsure or concerned about costs, care homes can provide advice and guidance on their individual fees as well as available funding options to help you make an informed decision.
Tips for Couples Looking for a Care Home Together
Making decisions about a joint care home move can feel overwhelming for many couples, as well as their families. The following tips are designed to help you make a well-informed, confident choice.
- Plan ahead: Begin the discussion of care needs, daily routines, and personal preferences as early as possible. These conversations allow couples to consider their options carefully and make decisions without feeling pressured.
- Carefully research a range of homes: Take the time to explore numerous care homes, browse reviews, and consider the options. By gathering this information, families can make a more knowledgeable and confident decision in choosing a home that is the right fit.
- Tour potential homes together: When possible, visit possible care homes together with loved ones. By seeing the environment in person, meeting staff members, and observing daily routines, you can gain clarity on whether a home seems welcoming and suitable.
- Consider finances: Take into account the full fees involved and whether a dual move into a care home is financially viable. These discussions can make planning costs less stressful and easier to navigate.
- Seek expert guidance: Speak with GPs, social workers, or care advisors, who can offer professional advice according to the couple’s individual circumstances. This expert support can provide reassurance to families about the decision they are making.
Swarthmore Care Home in Gerrards Cross
“Every couple’s situation is unique, and at Swarthmore, we work closely with families to explore the best possible care options for both partners,” says Sally Warminger, Success Manager.
Swarthmore Care Home provides person-centred care in a warm, welcoming environment with a genuine family atmosphere. We discuss potential couple arrangements on a case-by-case basis to ensure both partners receive the support and care that is best and right for them.
Our care home in Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, offers a generous range of modern amenities and personalised services, such as:
- Ensuite rooms for privacy and comfort
- Wi-Fi and a 32” smart TV in all rooms
- Customised wellbeing programs to ensure all residents enjoy a balanced and relaxing lifestyle
- A variety of activities to assist with physical, emotional, and social well-being
- Dedicated care from a trained and compassionate team.
Family members and loved ones can feel reassured that every resident at Swarthmore receives personalised support to ensure comfort, safety, and happiness.
At Swarthmore Care Home, we offer tours of our welcoming home, so you can personally see the care we offer our residents. If you would like to learn more about moving into our home, whether as an individual or as a couple, contact us today to discuss your needs with our friendly team.
