Planning these things early is easier for everyone, and most of them cost little or nothing.
Quick facts
- Sheltered housing
- Independent living with support nearby
- Rent and support charges
- Housing Executive means test
- Enduring Power of Attorney
- Set up while you have capacity
- Registered with
- Office of Care and Protection, if needed
- Elder abuse
- Tell a social worker, GP or police
Sheltered and extra care housing
Tenants of sheltered accommodation are independent, free to come and go and have visitors as they wish. The Housing Executive can carry out a means test to see if you are eligible for help for rent, rates and service charge.
You can rent or buy extra care housing, usually through a leasehold arrangement.
Enduring Power of Attorney
You can formally appoint a friend, relative or professional to hold a power of attorney that will allow them to act on your behalf. It must be set up while you have capacity and registered by your Attorney with the Office of Care and Protection if you become incapable.
You can grant the power at any time provided you are over 18 years of age and mentally capable of understanding what an Enduring Power of Attorney is.
Help collecting your money
If getting to the bank is hard, or someone needs to receive payments for you, there are ways to let another person collect or manage your benefits and pension.
Elder abuse
You can go to a social worker, GP or police officer in complete confidence. You may feel too afraid to report abuse, especially if your carer is the abuser, but you are entitled to the protection of the law and to dignity and respect.
Common questions
When should I set up an Enduring Power of Attorney?
While you can still understand what it is. It must be set up while you have capacity.
Can I get help with sheltered housing charges?
The Housing Executive can means-test you for help with rent, rates and service charges.