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Growing old alongside a life partner is a privilege that many of us hope for in later life, but it’s something a lot of people miss out on in care homes. 

Moving away from a partner, no matter how long you have been together, can make the transition to a care home a distressing process, but that doesn’t need to be the case.

At Berkley, we do our utmost to cater for couples and depending on the specific setting, you may be able to share a room or have separate rooms if you would prefer.

Benefits of care homes for couples

Being together:

You can continue to live with your partner, both receiving the care and support you need in later life.

Being together can alleviate feelings of loneliness and anxiety that often accompany moving into a care home. Couples can provide each other with comfort and companionship.

It can be a smoother process financially

Moving to a care home can not only be difficult emotionally, but there are also lots of financial decisions to make when it comes to paying for care. 

Moving to a care home together will make it generally easier to work out future finances, without the need to consider a range of scenarios. 

The most important financial decision for many couples when it comes to care is what happens to your home. If you decide to move to a care home as a couple, then you will be free to sell your home and use this to directly fund your care, if you need to do so, without worrying about your partner needing to downsize or relocate.

Moving to a care home together has a positive impact on emotional wellbeing

Having to separate from a loved one is arguably the hardest part of moving to a care home, particularly for couples that have been together for a long time.

Moving into a care home as a couple can have a really positive impact on each person’s wellbeing, offering a sense of familiarity and helping both individuals to settle in much easier.

How do our care homes enhance your day to day lives as a couple:

Coordinated Care: our staff trained to recognise the needs of couples. Individual care plans will be coordinated to address the health needs of both individuals, ensuring that they receive appropriate care without unnecessary separation.

Social Programs and Activities: We offer activities specifically designed for couples, such as dances, movie nights, or games. We also offer activities that may appeal to one person, and you can participate in this whilst being confident your loved one is not alone.  

Health Issues: One partner may face more significant health challenges than the other, which can be emotionally taxing for both individuals. Care staff can help manage these situations with sensitivity and support.

Celebrating Milestones:  We can assist couples in celebrating anniversaries, birthdays, and other significant events, helping to maintain a sense of normality, consistency, and joy.

At Berkley we find couples living in our care homes can find comfort and joy in their shared experiences, but they also face unique challenges that require understanding and support from care staff, family, and the community.  We strive to create an environment that fosters connection, dignity, and quality of life for couples as they navigate this stage of their lives together.