Navigating Care Options for Couples: Staying Together in Later Life

Introduction

Growing older together is a beautiful journey, but when care needs arise, many couples worry about being separated. The good news is that care homes today offer a range of options designed to help couples continue living together while receiving the support they need.

At Aurem Care, we believe in keeping loved ones together wherever possible. In this blog, we explore the different care options available for couples, ensuring that both partners receive the right level of care while continuing to share their lives.

Understanding Care Home Options for Couples

Couples may have different health and care needs, meaning a tailored approach is essential. The main options include:

1. Shared Living Arrangements – Some care homes offer double rooms or adjoining apartments so that couples can live together while receiving care.
2. Individualised Care Plans – Even if one partner requires more support than the other, care plans can be adapted to meet each person’s unique needs.
3. Mixed Care Support – Some couples require different levels of care (e.g., one needing residential care and the other requiring nursing or dementia support). Many homes accommodate this by providing access to both services under one roof.

Pro Tip:
“Always ask care homes about their options for couples early in your search—some have limited availability for shared accommodation, so planning ahead is key.”

The Emotional and Practical Benefits of Staying Together

Moving into a care home can be an emotional transition, but staying together can ease the adjustment. Benefits include:

• Emotional Support – Sharing familiar routines and experiences provides comfort.
• Improved Wellbeing – Studies show that being with a loved one can reduce anxiety and improve overall happiness.
• Easier Adjustment – Moving together helps maintain a sense of normality in a new setting.

How to Find the Right Care Home for Couples

1. Ask About Accommodation Options

Not all care homes offer shared rooms, so it’s important to check availability. Some homes provide suites or interconnecting rooms for couples who want to stay close while having personal space.

Pro Tip:
“Visit care homes together and discuss your preferences with the care team to ensure both partners’ needs are met.”

2. Consider Future Care Needs

It’s essential to choose a care home that can accommodate both current and future care requirements. If one partner’s health changes over time, the home should have the resources to adapt their level of care without separation.

3. Explore Financial Considerations

Care costs for couples can vary depending on accommodation choices and care needs. Some couples qualify for joint funding assistance, while others may choose self-funding options. Understanding the financial aspects ahead of time can make the transition smoother.

Pro Tip:
“Seek financial advice early to explore funding options for couples, including local authority contributions or savings plans.”

How Aurem Care Supports Couples in Later Life

At Aurem Care, we believe that staying together should always be an option. Our approach includes:

• Flexible accommodation choices for couples wishing to share.
• Bespoke care plans tailored to each individual’s needs.
• Compassionate support that ensures emotional wellbeing for both partners.

We work closely with families to ensure the right solution is found, providing reassurance that couples can continue their journey together.

Conclusion

Finding the right care home for couples requires careful planning, but with the right support, partners can continue living together while receiving personalised care.

At Aurem Care, we prioritise keeping loved ones together whenever possible, ensuring they receive the care and comfort they deserve. If you’d like to explore options for couples’ care, contact us or visit one of our homes to learn more.

More Information

For further insights, check out our blog on How to Choose a Care Home: A Step-by-Step Guide for Families. It provides a detailed overview of key considerations when selecting the right care home for you and your loved ones.