WHAT'S NEW? PERSONAL ALARMS HELP TO ALLEVIATE ELDERLY PEOPLE’S CONCERNS ABOUT LIVING ALONE


A recent survey from Taking Care sheds light on why older people choose to invest in a personal alarm, and it’s clear that one key factor stands out: living alone.


The survey, which was completed by nearly 2,000 personal alarm customers, found that living alone was the primary reason for choosing an alarm.


The survey found that: • 82% of personal alarm users live alone. • 58% of personal alarm users said that ‘Living alone’ was their main reason for choosing a personal alarm.


• 88% said having a personal alarm reduced their concerns about living alone and feeling vulnerable.


According to Age UK, 3.6 million elderly people in the UK live alone and 270,000 people aged 65+ in England can go a full week without speaking to a friend or family member, while information from the NHS suggests this could be as long as a month.


Lauren Frake, Taking Care Customer Services Manager, said: “We speak to a lot of older people who live alone, and many quietly admit they feel lonely or vulnerable, especially at night or when family aren’t nearby. Sometimes just being able to talk about that makes a difference.”


Loneliness is a huge issue for elderly people in the UK and this research by Taking Care confirms that having quick, easy access to an Emergency Response Team can help to alleviate concerns related with living alone.


https://taking.care/collections/find-the-best-personal-alarms


Click here to view the Taking Care Personal Alarms. https://taking.care/


OVER 50% OF UK UNFAMILIAR WITH COST-SAVING SOCIAL CARE METHOD DESPITE BENEFITS


New research from social care provider Surrey Choices revealed that over half of the UK public has never heard of Shared Lives, a community-based care model proven to deliver personal, cost- effective support for adults with care needs.


Shared Lives offers a unique approach to care, where individuals who need support – such as adults with learning disabilities, mental health needs or older people – move into the homes of approved Shared Lives carers, or are supported by them in the community. This model provides a family-like environment and a more personal alternative to traditional residential care, fostering independence and community integration.


The survey results highlight a pressing need to raise the profile of Shared Lives. Despite its proven benefits, including being a highly cost-effective and flexible care solution, its low public recognition means many who could benefit from or provide this service are unaware of its existence. According to Shared Lives Plus' recent impact report, the Shared Lives scheme can save councils between £8,000 to £30,000 per person annually.


Louise Hayes, Operations Director at Surrey Choices, said: "The fact that our study revealed that over half of people haven't heard of Shared Lives points to a significant challenge, but also a tremendous opportunity. This model of care is


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not only incredibly personal and proven to deliver excellent outcomes, but it also offers a genuine alternative to more institutional settings."


The Shared Lives model is celebrated for its ability to: • Provide personalised care: Individuals receive tailored support in a family home environment, promoting dignity and independence.


• Be cost-effective: Shared Lives is oſten a more economical solution compared to traditional residential care options.


• Offer a proven model: It has a long track record of positive outcomes for both individuals receiving care and their carers.


• Empower communities: It enables people to live fulfilling lives within their local communities and offers a meaningful way for carers to make a difference.


This lack of awareness signifies a major hurdle in expanding access to community-based care and connecting individuals with a truly impactful way to contribute to society. Efforts are now being focused on increasing public understanding of Shared Lives, advocating for its wider adoption, and encouraging more people to consider becoming Shared Lives carers.


www.surreychoices.com www.tomorrowscare.co.uk


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