The personalisation of adult social care in rural areas

摘要

In March 2008 the Minister of State for Pensions Reform predicted the numbers of those aged over 75 will increase by 90% in rural areas, compared to just 47% in urban areas, over the next twenty-five years. An ageing population offers a number of benefits to rural communities. Older people are an important social resource. Their investment in the local economy and deep social networks can be the backbone of a strong rural community. Older people also help make rural communities sustainable through voluntary work, active involvement in a wide range of community groups and their support for local services, as well as being economically active. However, as people grow older they are more likely to need care and support to maintain their independence and wellbeing in later life. Many older people receive support from families and friends, but this can be difficult to sustain and is not always possible or practical. For those who are eligible, formal social care is provided and covers a huge variety of services from residential care and drop-in centres to meals on wheels and at home support.