Housing Options for Older People
Sheltered housing may be a suitable option for older people who want to continue to live independently.
See Housing for Older People to find out about other options.
Important advice
Sheltered housing can be bought or rented. Additional services such as home help and meals on wheels may be available.
What is sheltered housing?
Sheltered housing gives older people the independence of having their own flat with the security of having an alarm system and staff who visit. The flats are usually all self-contained units in a complex, which often has a communal social area.
The sheltered housing staff should check on you if you need it and would be able to assist you in an emergency. They would not be expected to provide care or do things like shopping.
Additional care in sheltered housing
If you require additional services, you can still have care provided by the social services department, such as meals on wheels, or someone to come in to get you up in the morning, or to help you wash, or do your housework. Alternatively, you could move into very sheltered housing or extra care sheltered housing, where services such as meals and personal care are usually provided.
Who provides sheltered housing?
A number of housing providers have sheltered housing complexes. These include Trent and Dove Housing, the largest social housing provider in East Staffordshire. Others include:
- Abbeyfield - search by area
- Almshouses - information and vacancies
- Elderly Accomodation Counsel - “Services” & the “Hoop” tool
- Housing Care - “Accommodation”
- Age UK - “Information and Advice”
Buying sheltered housing
It is sometimes possible to buy a flat in a sheltered housing complex. If you already own your home, it may be easier for you to buy than to rent, as home owners are usually not given priority on waiting lists to rent from the council or a housing association.