As we get older we start to think more about where we live. Older Persons Housing may appeal to you if you want to live independently. Perhaps you'd like a smaller and easier to manage home. Or you might like the idea of having someone to call on if there is an emergency.
When you are looking for Older Persons Housing here are few things you might want to consider:
- The location and size of the property
- The level of support available
- What costs you would be liable for
- Any rules that might affect you, such as whether you’re allowed to keep a pet
- Local transport links
There are 3 different types of housing for older people in Fife:
Retirement Housing
This is an area of bungalows or flats for older people (age 60+) who wish to keep their independence. This is suitable for those who want to live independently but in a smaller and easier to manage home with the following benefits:
- Mostly one bedroom properties with a limited number of bedsits and two bedroom properties
- A Scottish Secure Tenancy
- Access, if required, to a community alarm system
- Safety system in communal areas / secure door entry system/fire and smoke detection
- Staff available 9am to 3pm, Monday to Friday, to offer advice and help with tenancy related matters
- Access to our mobile emergency care service (MECs) when the Retirement Housing Officer is off site
- Laundry facilities and a guest room (available in some areas)
- Communal lounge and garden where tenants can socialise (available in some areas)
- Accessible properties with lifts and level access from outside.
- Parking and internet access in the communal lounge (available in some areas)
There is no annual housing support charge; there is only a service charge to cover the cost of communal areas, lift maintenance and laundry facilities.
Who can apply?
Anyone living in Fife or with a link to Fife and aged 60 or above can apply for Retirement Housing and meets one or more of the following criteria:
- Can live independently with minimal assistance
- Feels socially isolated where they presently live
- May have a medical condition which makes their current home unsuitable
Very Sheltered Housing
Very Sheltered Housing is suitable for more vulnerable older people who need support with their daily living.
These developments are similar to Retirement Housing, but with the following added benefits:
- Very Sheltered Housing Officer who contact residents daily in person or through the intercom system.
- Personal response in an emergency any time of the day or night
- Very Sheltered Housing Officers are available 9 am to 3 pm 7 days a week
- Mobile Emergency Care Service available 3 pm to 9 am 7 days a week
- Housing support, which may include:
- Reporting repairs to the customer service centre
- Assisting with the completion of forms and correspondence
- Liaising with other agencies on your behalf
- Assisting with budgeting and money issues
- An optional meals service is in some areas.
Who can apply?
Anyone aged 60 and above who is capable of independent living with housing, social work or health care support.
Extra Care Housing
Extra Care Housing is designed with the needs of frailer older people in mind. Varying levels of care and support is available. 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 comes in many built forms, including blocks of flats, bungalow estates and care villages. It is a popular choice among older people because it can sometimes provide an alternative to a care home.
In addition to communal facilities, Extra Care Housing often includes a café, health & fitness facilities, hobby rooms and computer rooms. Domestic support and personal care are available, usually provided by on-site staff.
Choosing the right option for you
Please click on the map below to give you an idea of what options are available in your area, to help you make the right decision for you.