Older generations dependent on relatives

Mary Youlden
Authored by Mary Youlden
Posted Wednesday, July 30, 2014 - 10:54am

Who will look after your Mum and Dad when they need full-time care? Research has found that many of us would shy away from bringing up the topic, and wouldn’t look after our parents if faced with the decision.

An increase in the ageing population, who are more dependent on those around them means UK care services are in high demand, and new research has today confirmed that there is a worrying trend emerging. More than two thirds (67%) of adults worry about what will happen to their parents as they get older, yet a third (32%) of Brits wouldn’t look after their parents when they need full-time care, and only 7% have any plans for the future in place.

The national study conducted by healthcare provider Care UK spoke to 2000 people with parents aged 60 or over, and found that of those who would not want their parents to live with them, the majority (41%) said it was because they wouldn’t be able to cope. This comes as the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) has estimated that by 2030 more than two million people aged 65 and over will have no child living nearby to give care if needed.

A further 20% did not think it would be wise as they lacked the necessary skills to care for their parent. It also revealed that family bonds are not as strong as previous generations, with the research finding that over a quarter (26%) would not want their parents living with them because they did not have that sort of relationship.

What’s more, the research revealed an interesting change in attitudes towards parental care according to age, with 18 to 24 year olds most likely to say that they would look after their parents compared to those who are 55 years old or more who were most likely to say they would not.

The sensitive subject has not even been broached by many families (66%), as it proved to be too upsetting, both parties refused to talk on the matter or it simply has not ever come up.

This, combined with feelings of sadness, guilt and concern, makes for a tough time for families across the country to make an informed decision about the future care plans for their parents.

Jeni Rushton, Care Manager at Care UK, said: “From our experience, the thought of putting parents in a care home can come with great concern.  Often the decision is made at crisis point – when parents need a level of care which families may not be able to provide. 

"This can lead to a big decision that nobody was prepared for, which only heightens the anguish for parents and their families. This is why we encourage people to discuss the subject of care with their parents before it becomes a necessity.”

Older Generation Dependent On Relatives For Care

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