Despite its inevitability, the thought of growing old is still rather a worrying one - who will look after us, and how will we afford that care? Increased life expectancy means it is likely that we will require care for longer, whether in our own homes or elsewhere, and although it's tempting not to think about it until it happens, the subject is worth some consideration.

The current pensions crisis has galvanised many people into putting away extra money for their retirement, knowing that residential or nursing care can be very expensive. With this in mind, if you are looking at this type of care for yourself or for a relative, it makes sense to do some research and find out exactly what is on offer.

Residential care is an option for those who would benefit from living in a caring environment, while retaining a degree of independence. You may choose sheltered accommodation, or a residential care home for people who require more support than is possible in their own home.

These homes should provide residents with a wide range of facilities and social activities in a friendly atmosphere, and it is a good idea to make a series of visits to make sure you choose the right home for you. This area is fortunate to have several top-quality homes such as Burcot Grange and Dorset House, both of which offer an excellent standard of care and accommodation in beautiful surroundings.

Burcot Grange, a country-manor style residence, can provide short-term respite care to those recovering from an illness, or to give carers a break, and also offers trial periods. Dorset House in Droitwich, a former hotel, is one of four homes managed by the national charity AgeCare, and now features a specialist nursing wing in addition to residential care. (More information about AgeCare can be found at www.agecare.org.uk).

Heart of England Housing and Care, a not-for-profit organisation with charitable status, offers private residential care at nine homes across Worcestershire, including Bromsgrove, Droitwich and Redditch. The residences, formerly run by the County Council, have been fully refurbished with an investment of around £25 million, and currently provide 449 older people with care and companionship.

Sunrise Senior Living is a concept that originated in the USA to provide 'care communities' for older people who want to retain a high degree of independence and individuality. Now with residences in England, including a soon-to-be-opened Birmingham branch at Edgbaston, Sunrise offer a variety of care choices such as independent living, assisted living, and short-term stays as well as Alzheimer's, nursing and rehabilitation care. Sunrise also run an at-home living programme to give assistance to those not quite ready to move into a residential home.

For those who need full-time or specialist medical care, a dedicated nursing home may be suggested, where trained medical staff are in attendance. A hospice is an option for people suffering from a serious or life-threatening illness, and local hospices such as Primrose in Bromsgrove, Mary Stevens in Stourbridge and St Richard's in Worcester provide vital support for patients and their families.

If at all possible, most people would prefer to stay in their own home rather than move to residential accommodation, and this decision is made easier by the fact that more help is available than ever before. The market for specialist mobility equipment has enjoyed steady growth over the past few years, and a vast range of products, from stairlifts to wheelchairs to walk-in baths, is obtainable in most areas from reputable firms.

Aids to daily living, such as apparatus to raise tables or chairs to a more manageable height and gadgets to assist with cooking, can also make life easier, and it's worth remembering that many chiropodists, hairdressers and therapists will make home visits to elderly or disabled people.

The government offers various benefits to those requiring care at home, such as the Disability Living Allowance and Attendance Allowance, plus the Carers Allowance for people looking after a relative or friend. Information on these benefits can be found at www.dwp.gov.uk.

If you require financial assistance in order to move into residential or nursing accommodation, contact the Social Services department of your local authority - they can help you to choose the right home and may agree to fund all or part of the cost. The NHS will sometimes fund places in care homes.

For advice and information on choosing and affording residential or nursing care,

contact the Nursing Home Fees Agency (NHFA) on 0800 998833 or see www.nhfa.co.uk.