Survey Results for Later Life Care in the UK
Survey Reveals Alarming Lack of Preparedness for Later Life Care in the UK
A recent survey conducted by Loveday has revealed eye-opening insights regarding the concerns and preparedness of UK adults for later life care. 2,000 Britons aged 18+ participated in the nationwide survey and the findings highlight some of the fears surrounding ageing, worries about placing loved ones into care, perceptions of care homes and the startling revelation that more people are prepared for their own funeral than for their later life care.
At Loveday, our expert team is dedicated to educating, supporting and empowering. We understand the enormity and emotional toil involved in deciding on care solutions for a loved one and want to help alleviate the anxiety by addressing some of the nation’s key concerns.
Key findings from the Loveday Later Life Survey include:
Widespread Apprehension:
The survey's results indicate that a significant portion of UK adults hold apprehension about later life care. A staggering 83% express concerns about placing a loved one or dependent into care, with 61% worried about the quality of care and 49% anxious about the financial implications. The emotional aspect is also evident, as 33% admit they would feel guilty about making such a decision, emphasising the need for compassionate support.
“Whilst there will always be a certain level of apprehension and emotion involved when choosing care for a loved one, there are many advantages for both the family and the individual receiving care. Enlisting appropriate care can significantly enhance the quality of life, bringing back smiles and improving health and confidence. Our team at Loveday are with our Members every step of the way to ensure all questions are answered and needs are met throughout the entire journey.” Cat Dowling, Membership Manager Loveday.
Perceptions of Care Homes:
The standard of care homes in the UK is much higher than public perception. While 32% of respondents believe the quality of care homes is poor, the reality is that 79% of care homes are rated as Good, and 3.5% are rated as Outstanding by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Loveday highlights the need to recognise and appreciate the exceptional care provided by many care homes in the country and celebrate the wonderful work the care industry does.
James Cook, Managing Director at Loveday comments, “It's important to recognise that numerous care homes are consistently providing a very high standard of care and services and much work needs to be done to educate the public, in order to reduce anxiety. At Loveday, we are proud of our exceptionally high standards and attention to detail. We strive to go above and beyond for our Members and we are passionate about pioneering research and progressing the industry, so more people may benefit from outstanding care.”
Fears About Ageing:
The survey brings to light the profound fears surrounding the ageing process, with 93% of respondents expressing concerns. Declining health tops the list of worries (61%), followed by concerns about dementia and loss of mobility (55%). The gender disparity is evident, with 63% of women expressing more worry about dementia compared to 48% of men.
“These statistics illustrate the urgent requirement for thorough and empathetic assistance in one's later years, covering both physical and emotional requirements as well as maintaining independence.” Darren Pitcher, Care & Quality Director Loveday.
Preparedness for Later Life Care:
Perhaps the most striking revelation is that more people are prepared for their own funeral (28%) than for their later life care (14%). Surprisingly, the lack of preparedness doesn't differ significantly across age groups, with 83% of both the over 55s and 18-34 age groups admitting they are unprepared for later life care. This calls for urgent attention to raise awareness and encourage open conversations about planning for the future.
Knowledge and Preparedness:
The survey indicates a lack of knowledge and preparedness among respondents regarding the process of arranging care. Only 24% claim to be knowledgeable about the process, while 36% admit they wouldn't know where to start when considering later life care. Loveday stresses the importance of education, open conversations and accessible resources to empower individuals in navigating the complexities of later life planning.
“Planning for care in later life is crucial for avoiding a care crisis and ensuring a dignified and comfortable process. It allows individuals to make informed decisions about their well-being, promotes autonomy and provides peace of mind for both the individual and their loved ones,” adds Darren Pitcher.
Planning is paramount:
The Loveday Later Life Survey highlights the pressing need for increased awareness, open conversations and comprehensive support for later-life care. Addressing concerns, dispelling myths and providing accessible resources can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their own care and that of their loved ones. At Loveday, we believe it is time to bridge the gap between perception and reality to ensure that society is better prepared and informed about the challenges and options associated with later life care.
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