Extra care housing

Definition: Sheltered or retirement housing for frail older people

New forms of sheltered housing and retirement housing have been pioneered in recent years, to cater for older people who are becoming more frail and less able to do everything for themselves.

Extra Care Housing is housing designed with the needs of frailer older people in mind and with varying levels of care and support available on site. People who live in Extra Care Housing have their own self contained homes, their own front doors and a legal right to occupy the property. Extra Care Housing is also known as very sheltered housing, assisted living, or simply as 'housing with care'. It comes in many built forms, including blocks of flats, bungalow estates and retirement villages. It is a popular choice among older people because it can sometimes provide an alternative to a care home.

In addition to the communal facilities often found in sheltered housing (residents' longe, guest suite, laundry), Extra Care schemes often include a restaurant or dining room, health & fitness facilites, hobby rooms and even computer rooms. Domestic support and personal care are available, usually provided by on-site staff. Properties can be rented, owned or part owned/part rented. There is a limited (though increasing) amount of Extra Care Housing in most areas and most providers set eligibility criteria which prospective residents have to meet.

Use the quick Extra Care Search on our homepage to find your nearest schemes. Or use our Search for retirement housing to find schemes to match your requirements anywhere in the UK. Search by postcode, place name or county/council area, and select 'Housing with care' from the Services dropdown list.

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