Simon’s father self-funded care from age 95. Simon consulted a financial adviser to help him maximise his father’s income to pay for his care fees and protect his capital assets as far as possible. He trusted the financial adviser and was very satisfied with the advice he received.

Sue’s mother self-funded care from age 87. After her father died, Sue’s mother deteriorated in her dementia. She had a spell in hospital after a fall then received some interim care at home provided by the NHS. Sue’s mother now lives in a purpose-built annexe at Sue’s house and pays for her own care.

Deryck’s mother self-funded care from age 87. Deryck’s mother lived in a retirement apartment about half an hour’s drive from where he lived. He visited often but realised that she was not looking after herself. It was a relief to Deryck when his mother moved to a care home where she was safe and happy.

Hazel’s father self-funded care from age 94. Hazel was increasingly worried about how her father was coping. She did his shopping online and visited every week or so. When they went on holiday, Hazel’s father would stay at home and they paid a careworker to check in on him each day.

Sarah’s parents self-funded care from age 81 and 83. Sarah looked after her parents at home herself with support from her brothers and then they gradually paid for more and more care. Eventually Sarah and her brothers made the difficult decision to move their mother and father to a care home with nursing.

Frances’ father self-funded care from age 77. When Frances could not find suitable accommodation for her father and his dog, she decided to sell their family home and her father’s house and purchase a house together. They paid for care at home for 4 years until he moved to a nursing care home.

Tracey’s parents self-funded their care. Tracey’s father was diagnosed with dementia and her mother struggled to care for him. He moved to a nursing home that could cope with his challenging behaviour. When her mother needed care at home they self-funded both residential and care at home.

Jacky’s parents self-funded care from age 85. Jacky’s mother and father both needed care, first at home and then moving into residential care. After her father died, her mother moved nearer to Jacky in the south of England. Care home fees were much higher there and her savings were quickly depleted.

Andrew’s mother self-funded care from age 80. Andrew’s mother lived nearby and he visited regularly and made sure she was safe. Following an intensive course of treatment for cancer, his mother spent a few weeks in a hospice where she was assessed and awarded CHC. However, this was later withdrawn.

Paula’s mother self-funded care. Paula has arranged live-in care for her mother for 5 years. They have one carer Monday to Friday and another over the weekend. A third carer helps out occasionally and Paula and her family are always on hand to give extra help and oversee care.