Anchor asks 'Are we ready for ageing' through new infographic

The country’s largest not for profit residential care provider has published an infographic asking whether the UK is ready for the impact of aging on society.

With the number of people aged over 85 set to increase from 1.46million to 2.72 million by 2030, Anchor has produced the infographic to highlight the level of people’s understanding about the future impact of the ageing population, and details the public perception of the Government’s ability to cope.

Mario Ambrosi, head of public affairs at Anchor, said: “The Care Act 2014, which received royal assent last week, includes important measures relating to care and support for older people. This is particularly important given the ageing population.

“But there are significant concerns, including that the new system will still be extremely difficult for many people to understand. The amount people pay for care will be capped, however the cap does not cover the full costs for care, such as accommodation costs. This means many people will pay significantly more for their care than would be implied by the word “cap.”

The infographic demonstrates that nearly half of the public have not considered how they will pay for their own care in old age, and half admitted to having no idea of the actual cost of care homes.

Mr Ambrosi continued: “Anchor believes these considerations are all the more important given the knowledge gap among the UK population about paying for care. That’s why we have produced an infographic to highlight people’s understanding of care costs, as well as perceptions around how prepared the Government is for an ageing population. It also shows significant support for Anchor’s calls for a Minister for Older People in the Cabinet.

“Is society ready for ageing? Is the Government ready for ageing? Anchor doesn't think so.”

The infographic also highlights the high number of people backing the charitable organisation’s calls to create a Minister for Older People, echoed by 76 per cent of people want a cabinet level role to be created. Anchor has called the government to take notice of their petition on the subject which has now received over 137,000 signatures.

To view the infographic visit: http://www.anchor.org.uk/sites/default/files/news_articles/documents/Anchor_inforgraphic_Are_we_ready_for_aging_download.PDF