Growing crisis as charges for older people's home care top £7,000

Published 30 December 2011

A new survey of care provided by local councils reveals shocking increases and wide disparities in charges for services for vulnerable older people.

The survey, published today (Friday, 30 December 2011) by Labour, found that councils are increasing charges for vital services including home care, meals on wheels and transport to day centres. It also highlights huge differences in the price people pay for care, depending on where they live. The number of people receiving free services has dropped by more than 15 per cent in the last two years.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'Many people with dementia and their carers are being forced into a position where they cannot afford to pay for home care, or choose not to due to the extortionate costs in some parts of the country. This is a disgrace that should shame any civilised society. Home care services are vital in helping to maintain quality of life for people living with dementia. This survey is a damning indictment showing why the current system to pay for care needs to be reformed.'

Andrew Chidgey
Director of Policy and Public Affairs
Alzheimer's Society

- Ends -

Notes to editors:

One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just ten years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051
Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them
Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk
Alzheimer's Society and Tesco have mapped the number of people with dementia in each part of the UK and the percentage who receive a diagnosis. To view the 'Mapping the Dementia Gap' study visit alzheimers-tesco.org.uk