Advances in health care have helped people in England to live longer than ever before. This is good news for all of us but it creates a challenge for the society – as we get older we tend to get long term conditions and need more health and social care.
In 2017, 18,2% of the UK population was over the age of 65, according to the Office for National Statistics. The number of people over the age of 65 is projected to reach around one in every four people (24%) by 2037.
It is clear from the ONS data that the UK’s ageing population, particularly in rural areas, could be severely detrimental to the wellbeing of British people. Social isolation and loneliness, as well as deteriorating health due to poor transport links or an unreliable health service, are becoming increasingly likely as a result. However, with appropriate government funding, community support and thorough research, a positive trajectory can be achieved.
A report published by the Kings fund and the Nuffield Trust paints a picture of social care providers under pressure, struggling to retain staff, maintain quality and stay in business. Increasing numbers of people are not receiving the help they need, which in turn puts a strain on carers.
More and more care homes and group homes have discovered the benefits of assistive tools for improving the quality of service and providing a more fulfilling life for the residents.
