At a time when we are all expecting to live longer than ever before, an undercover Which? investigation into life in UK care homes revealed a shocking lack of even the most basic care for residents.

The report revealed inadequate feeding and under stimulation were a major concern for dependent residents and their relatives amid a funding crisis being hailed as a ‘ticking time bomb’ for an ageing population.

Solid investment

James Clarke, European Marketing Manager at Premier Care in Bathing said the answer lies in staying in your home for longer coupled with solid investment in care for the elderly: “Old age comes to us all and it’s only fair to expect a decent standard of care when you need it most.

Staying in your own home is easier than ever before because of the range of aids that can make living longer in your own home a realistic option for more of us than ever before.

“Of course not all care homes paint such a bleak picture; some provide an excellent service to their residents. But with funding from councils being cut, coupled with the low status and low pay for care home workers and the increasing numbers of older people that need help, it’s clear everyone will need to ensure they can look after themselves for longer at home.”

Rising costs

Last year more than 20,000 people had to sell their homes to pay for rising care costs, an issue blamed on severe budget cuts and an ageing population. The problem could get even worse if funding is withdrawn from people already receiving residential care.

For further information about Premier Care in Bathing’s Walk-in baths and Easy- Access showers, please call 0800 018 0606 or alternatively log on to www.premierbathrooms.co.uk and request a free brochure.