Question 57
Can you get care support if you are under 65?
Adults under 65 with disabilities, long-term health conditions or acquired brain injuries are entitled to the same care needs assessment and potentially the same funded support as older adults. The same capital thresholds and funding rules apply. For younger adults the focus is often more on independence, employment and community participation. Young people transitioning from children's services should have a transition assessment before their 18th birthday. NHS Continuing Healthcare is available at any age to those who meet the health needs criteria. Being told the care system is only for older people is incorrect.
If you have been told adult social care does not apply because someone is under 65, this is wrong — request a care needs assessment directly from the council.
What changes the answer
- The nature and severity of the person's condition
- Whether they are transitioning from children's services
- Whether NHS Continuing Healthcare eligibility has been considered