Saving for Long-Term Care

Planning ahead for long-term care is crucial to cover future healthcare needs. Learn how to strategically allocate funds for medical expenses to ensure you have the financial resources needed to maintain your quality of life and receive the care you need as you age. Thoughtful financial planning can help secure your health and peace of mind.

Understanding the Fair Deal Scheme

The Fair Deal Scheme, managed by the Health Service Executive (HSE), provides financial support for those needing long-term nursing home care. Under the scheme, you contribute a portion towards your care costs, and the HSE covers the rest. This applies to approved private, voluntary, and public nursing homes in Ireland.

  • What Fair Deal Covers: Accommodation, nursing care, food, and basic aids.
  • What Fair Deal Does Not Cover: Short-term care, extra services like hairdressing or therapies.
Long-Term Care Planning
Fair Deal Application

Applying for the Fair Deal Scheme

The application process for the Fair Deal Scheme involves four key steps:

  • Fill in the Nursing Home Support Scheme application form.
  • Complete a Care Needs Assessment to evaluate if long-term care is necessary.
  • Undergo a Financial Assessment to determine your contribution.
  • (Optional) Apply for a Nursing Home Loan to defer payments based on assets like property.

Visit the HSE for Full Details and Application

Get the full breakdown of how the scheme works and access the application form directly from the HSE website.

Key Considerations and Next Steps

Understanding the costs associated with long-term care and your available options for financial support is essential. Consider consulting with a financial advisor to help you make the best decision based on your individual circumstances. Review the Fair Deal Scheme guidelines to ensure you’re fully prepared for the application process and understand your responsibilities and benefits.