// BBC UK NEWS — CRONACA
Will my life savings be wiped out by care costs?
George and Jean Cooke say they have spent more than £60,000 of their own money on his care
Cakes. Holidays. Great music. All enjoyable things to think about.
Financial planning for your end of life care? Not so much.
Perhaps this explains why it can come as a major shock when people arrive at the later stages of life, only to see their savings wiped out by a costly care bill as a result of a stroke, dementia or age-related conditions.
George and Jean Cooke, from Derbyshire, recently shared how they had spent more than £60,000 of their own money on continuing care for 85-year-old George following a stroke last year.
Jean said she felt "gutted", telling the BBC: "I just think the system is not fair. People should not have to pay when they've worked all their life."
So how many of us are facing a similar fate? And is there anything we can do about it?
Age UK says about two thirds (68%) of people older than 80 are living with two or more long-term health conditions
The sad fact is not everyone gets to enjoy a retirement filled with afternoon teas and Mediterranean cruises - many of us will see our sunset years marred by serious health conditions requiring ongoing round-the-clock care.
When this situation arises, the cost of the necessary care is means tested by your local council following an assessment of your financial circumstances.