Extra Care Living FAQs

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What is Extra Care living?

Extra Care Living is designed for people who require additional assistance to look after themselves, but not at the level provided by a residential care home. People living in Extra Care apartments enjoy the security, freedom and independence of having their own front door, while having the reassurance that care staff are available if needed, allowing residents to live life to the full, without the responsibility and costs of maintaining a home. You can make new friends in the spacious communal lounge and still enjoy the private space your own high quality apartment offers.

Our residents can expect peace of mind with a 24/7 maintenance and repairs service, security, professional staff and personal assistance if required. By living in an apartment complex designed with the needs of active older people in mind, residents can also be involved in a variety of activities, programs, fitness and fellowship.

Who is Extra Care Living suitable for?

Extra Care Living residents should still be relatively self-sufficient with help and a care plan in place if additional support is required. Our residents also normally need to meet certain eligibility criteria. Extra Care Living offers more support than over 55s housing, but still allows you to live independently.

What’s the difference between Extra Care and housing for the over 55s?

Extra Care living caters for older people who are physically or cognitively unable to care for themselves or who require some extra support with their personal care needs. A care provider is based on-site and will provide care to residents who require additional help. In our over 55s housing communities, most adults live alone or as couples, without the need for personal care support or skilled nursing.

Extra care is suitable for people with low level care needs who may just need help with things such as preparing a meal or remembering to take medication through to those with higher care needs such as bathing, getting dressed or getting in and out of bed. The care provision is flexible so as your needs change the care you are provided with can change in line with your needs.

How much does Extra Care Living cost?

Our rents and service charges are set for affordable living. Compared to the costs of homeownership, which includes insurance, property maintenance/improvements, utilities, groceries, and possibly housekeeping, an over 55s property may be more affordable than you think. Plus, you won’t have to worry about added costs associated with safety and security modifications. Our on-site caretaker and scheme co-ordinator can provide you with additional peace of mind.

How can I pay for Extra Care Living?

Depending on your personal circumstances, you will either pay the rent and service charge from your income or savings. You may be eligible to claim Housing or other benefits to cover the cost of your rent and service charge.  We can advise you further on this throughout the application process.

What is the average age of Extra Care Living residents?

Our residents range in ages from 55 and over.

Are residents allowed to bring their own furniture and belongings?

Yes. Our Extra Care Living residents are encouraged to furnish and decorate their own apartments to reflect their style and desired level of comfort.

What amenities are available for Extra Care Living residents?

In our communities, resident amenities can include indoor and outdoor recreational facilities, scooter recharge room, hair dressing salon, parking, gardens and social events (subject to availability) with fellow residents.

What kind of common areas are available for Extra Care Living residents?

Our communities feature several common areas and social spaces, including lounges, kitchens, gardens space and some apartment blocks have libraries or games rooms as well.

What safety features or security measures offer for Extra Care Living residents?

Our apartment developments have door entry systems, so you can control who you let into the building, social alarm systems which are manned 24 hours a day enabling you to call for help in an emergency and an on-site caretaker if there are any issues with your apartment.

Do Extra Care Living facilities allow pets?

It varies, depending on the type of scheme you want to live in.  You can discuss this further with the scheme coordinator when giving you your apartment tour.

Learn more about Extra Care Living with Jigsaw

Want to learn more about the amenities and security available in our over 55s housing or Extra Care apartments? Feel free to contact our Extra Care Housing team today to find out more.

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