How much does convalescent care really cost?

Let's look at the realities around the cost of convalescent care in the UK, including typical fees, funding options, and practical tips to plan for your loved one’s recovery.

What is convalescent care?

Convalescent care is a type of short-term support that is personalised to the needs of anyone recovering from an injury, illness, surgery, or anything that has resulted in a hospital stay and a temporary loss of independence at home. Whether visiting care or live-in care, convalescent care is designed to help older adults and their families cope with the unexpected challenges of care during recovery. Convalescent care might include a combination of:

Personal care and hygiene
Home help and housekeeping
Meal preparation and cooking
Medication reminders or assistance
Continence care (if needed)
Simple wound care
Mobility support
Emotional support
Transport to follow-up hospital or doctor appointments
Vital signs monitoring

How much does convalescent care cost?

Home care costs depend on the frequency of care, the services, and the location in the UK, as different areas have a higher cost of living. The NHS estimates home care (including convalescent care) to be around £20ph, while Homecare.co.uk suggests this could be anywhere from £26 to £38ph. For convalescent care, this may require specialist services like medication management or wound care that are more in line with medical assistance care, and therefore the hourly cost may be higher.

Sometimes a more holistic live-in convalescent care package may be needed, which could range from £1,350 to £2,000pw, depending on needs. Live-in care can be tailored and adapted as you recover, but it could be more cost-effective than a move to a care home.

Can I access funding for convalescent care?

After a hospital stay, the last thing anyone wants is to worry about how they will pay for care. Thankfully, like other types of care, convalescent care can sometimes be covered by NHS Continuing Healthcare, or by your local council, who offer means-tested financial support for those eligible. The first step is usually a discussion with the hospital before discharge, or the local council to arrange a Care Needs Assessment. This can determine whether or not you are eligible for funded care. You can learn more in our guide to paying for care.

Private home care may also be an option, which includes dedicated convalescent care from a trained Care Professional to help you confidently return to your daily activities.

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How to get started arranging convalescent care

The move from hospital to home can be challenging. If you have gone through a difficult illness or injury–whether it requires a hospital stay or not–getting back on your feet may take time, patience, and assistance at home. Convalescent care exists to make this transition easier, and typically the hospital discharge team will arrange this for you to ensure you have everything you need for a stress-free recovery at home.

To get started with convalescent care, speak to the doctor in charge of your care, or reach out to your local council to arrange a Care Needs Assessment. If you decide to pursue private care options like Home Instead, you can learn more about how to choose and arrange home care from our helpful team.

Why Home Instead?

Our flexible, compassionate Care Professionals can offer the recovery-focused care older adults need to continue improving their health and mobility, and get back to living independently at home. Whether you are recovering from a challenging illness, an injury or a recent surgery, we can help.

We are proudly rated 9.6 on Homecare.co.uk, with many of our locations also rated “outstanding” by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), so we are well-equipped to provide the practical and emotional support you need. From help with personal care tasks, to providing companionship to help with mental health struggles, to managing medications for a speedy recovery, our Care Professionals are ready to help you start feeling like ‘you’ again.

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FAQs

What is convalescent care, and who is it for?

Convalescent care is short-term care designed to support people recovering from illness, surgery, or injury. It provides assistance with daily tasks, mobility, and rehabilitation, helping the person regain strength and independence in a safe and supportive environment.

How much does convalescent care typically cost in the UK?

The cost of convalescent care varies depending on the level of support required, the duration of care, and whether it is provided in a care home or at home. On average, home-based convalescent visiting care can range from £20 to £30 per hour, while live-in care may cost £1,350 to £2,000 per week.

Is convalescent care covered by the NHS or local authorities?

In some cases, convalescent care may be partially or fully funded by the NHS or local authorities, particularly if it is part of a hospital discharge plan. However, many people may need to arrange and pay for private care if they do not meet the eligibility criteria for funding.

What factors influence the cost of convalescent care?

The cost of convalescent care depends on factors such as the complexity of care needs, the duration of care, and the location. Additional services, such as physiotherapy or specialist equipment, may also affect the overall cost.

How can private home care be a cost-effective option for convalescent care?

Private home care allows you or your loved ones to receive tailored support in the comfort of their own home, avoiding the higher costs of residential care. It also offers flexibility, as visits from our Care Professionals can be arranged for specific hours or tasks, ensuring you only pay for the support you need.

Diane WIlliams , Head of Quality & Standards

I have worked with Home Instead since July 2016 as a member of the Quality Team, taking the role of Head of Quality & Standards in 2020.

Before joining Home Instead, I built a comprehensive career in the social care sector, beginning in 1991 as a frontline care worker and advancing to senior leadership roles across both private and voluntary sector businesses.

Throughout my career, I have supported diverse care groups in a variety of settings, including community, residential, nursing, and secure environments. My experience spans working with older adults, including those living with dementia; individuals with physical disabilities and complex, long-term health needs; people with learning disabilities, including autism; individuals with enduring mental health challenges; individuals with current or past substance use and those with forensic backgrounds.

In 2002, I qualified as a social worker and have since maintained my professional registration with Social Work England.

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