This is getting back to the workhouse.
I know why it happens - I have worked in SSD - it is to do with the cost of care and assessed needs. At one time, if you wanted to go into a home, you could choose to do so, and, if you qualified, get help from the state with the fees via income Support rules.
A new rule then came in that you had to have an "assessed need" before the state would help with the fees, so everyone now has a "community care assessment" which decides whether you really need residential or nursing home care. If you are assessed as needing it, then you get help, if not then you don't. Clearly in this case, the wife is fitter than the hubby and that is why they have finished up in separate homes.
There is no doubt that this is complete nonsense - I can understand that they do not want to see a valuable nursing home place taken up with someone who does not really need it; but surely they can put two beds in the one room and be a bit flexible.
Definitely a case for ringing the national newspapers, contacting the MP and Age Concern etc. and making a big stink about it - is there family who can take this on?
I remember being referred a lady in hospital in her late 70s who had had a stroke and everyone said she needed to be in a home. I talked with the OH (who was a sprightly 92!) and he said "We have had a 60 year love affair and I am not about to let her go now." I got her home!! - no way was I going to let them be parted. They need a sympathetic SW to fight for them who is prepared to stick his/her neck out - this is truly a disgrace. What a way to make them end their lives!