Public more likely to choose care at home since pandemic, poll reveals

A poll of over 2,600 people has revealed the vast majority (80 per cent) would choose to receive care in their own homes rather than anywhere else and over a third (38 per cent) of those aged 65+ are more likely to opt for home care since the pandemic.

People chose home care in light of Covid-19 pandemic restrictions and the effect care at home would have on their ability to live the way they want (64 per cent); how much control they could have (54 per cent) and their ability to maintain their relationships with family and friends (53 per cent).

Homecare gives people ‘independence and control’

The survey of 2,618 people was conducted by YouGov on behalf of the Homecare Association.

Jane Townson, chief executive of the Homecare Association (formerly called UKHCA) said: “Homecare workers have been a lifeline for many people throughout the past 18 months, showing real selflessness and resilience in providing invaluable support to people in their own homes in incredibly challenging times.

“Homecare services can give people a wider sense of independence and control. Nine out of 10 people aged 65 and over – 88% – agreed that people would prefer to be supported at home rather than in a care home.”

More than four out of five people (84 per cent) agreed that care is skilled work that requires standards, training or qualifications. Some 89 per cent of people aged 65+ said care workers make a positive difference to the people they care for.

'Celebrating Homecare' day

In light of this, the Homecare Association and The Care Worker’s Charity (CWC) launched the first ever national ‘Celebrating Homecare’ day on 22 September to recognise the highly valued services that home carers deliver.

Whether this is filming a TikTok clip or arts and crafts, care workers and home care clients are being encouraged to celebrate something they have made or shared together.

Dr Townson added: “The government’s announcements on social care last week make it even more important that we should celebrate homecare and raise public awareness of the benefits that receiving support and care in our own homes brings to all of us.”

Karolina Gerlich, chief executive of the CWC said: “It’s right and proper every so often to take a step back from the day to day and look at what you have achieved.

“Care workers do such amazing work, bringing companionship, care and comfort to so many people. It’s wonderful to have the opportunity to celebrate what they do.”