What happens when the money runs out?

[annii1]

Mum has been in an nursing home for a couple of years. She is self funded but as the money goes down we are not sure what to do ? Dad has joint house with mum, will he need to sell? Do we need to top up when we get to a certain amount of money? I may apply for continuous care at some point as mum has deteriorated and needs more nursing care. Any advice would be very welcome. Thank you

 

[nitram]

As long as your dad stays in the house it will be disregarded in any LA financial assessment.

If your mum's capital is approaching the upper limit of £23250 you should ask for both needs and financial assessments by the LA.

Only half of any joint funds are included in this assessment.

 

[Pete R]

Mum has been in an nursing home for a couple of years. She is self funded but as the money goes down we are not sure what to do ? Dad has joint house with mum, will he need to sell? Do we need to top up when we get to a certain amount of money? I may apply for continuous care at some point as mum has deteriorated and needs more nursing care. Any advice would be very welcome. Thank you

No, your Dad will not be forced to sell as long as he stills lives in the house. When your Mum's money gets down to £23,250 the LA become responsible for paying her fees but will use any pensions/benefits to offset their bill. They will also take £1/week for every £250 above £14250. That £14,250 is for your Mum to use whenever and on whatever she wants. Your Mum will be allowed to keep £24.90/week to spend on anything apart from care (pocket money).

The main problem you may encounter is if the LA will not fund the cost of your Mum's current home if it is more expensive than their current budget. Their obligation is to provide you with details of at least one CH that they will fund that meets your Mum's needs. If you do not want your Mum to go their then your only option is to pay a top up.

http://www.ageuk.org.uk/Documents/E..._in_a_care_home_if_you_have_a_partner_fcs.pdf

 

[geum123]

If you do not want your Mum to go their then your only option is to pay a top up.

It is worth arguing that it would be detrimental to move your Mum.
You are under no obligation to personally pay a top up.

 

[nitram]

"You are under no obligation to personally pay a top up".

Nobody is under an obligation to pay a top up, additionally first party top ups on LA funding are only allowed when a property is involved, either during the 12 week disregard or if a DPA is agreed.

 

[arielsmelody]

It is worth arguing that it would be detrimental to move your Mum.
You are under no obligation to personally pay a top up.

Also it may be policy at the home to keep residents even after they become LA funded so check with the home before worrying about top ups.

 

[annii1]

Thank you all. I will check with the home first it would be awful for mum to have to move so that would be the last resort.

 

[d4109125]

Hi Anni, don't forget to ensure your Mother is getting HR AA if self funding.