The UK government is reportedly drawing up alternative plans for adult social care funding reform after cooling on ideas for a Dilnot-style cap system.
According to the Daily Mail, the government is considering a plan for universal basic care with the ability to pay for better service.
Such a scheme would see residents pay more if they wanted larger rooms, better meals or more frequent trips, the newspaper said.
The private pension-style system could have the option of paying a lump sum of £10,000 or £20,000 on retirement for the promise of better care should people need it.
The Daily Mail also reported Downing Street had been close to announcing a £40,000 cap on social care costs, with the state stepping in to pay the rest.
However, it is said that senior government figures are uncomfortable with a cap because it may fall foul of the Tory election manifesto pledge that people would not have to sell their homes to pay for care.
The Daily Mail said the government's Autumn Statement, which is currently expected to be delivered by Chancellor Rishi Sunak (pictured) in late November, would be the earliest opportunity for any details on adult social care reform to be announced.
Earlier this month Health Secretary Matt Hancock refused to say when social reforms would be unveiled when quizzed by MPs during a select committee hearing.
