Why most older adults prefer staying at home: Key insights from the New Ageing Index research

Discover why a majority of older adults prefer to stay at home according to Home Instead UK’s New Ageing Index research.

Why most older adults prefer staying at home

In today’s changing world, the desire to maintain independence, especially as we age, resonates deeply within our communities. This sentiment is clearly reflected in Home Instead UK’s latest New Ageing Index research, which sheds light on why many older adults choose to remain in the familiar comfort of their own homes.

At Home Instead Bournemouth and Christchurch, we see this every day. Our older clients enjoy the comfort and security of staying at home, and for many, with just a little extra help, they can continue to live well and independently. 

“You have recently started daily visits to my elderly mum, who whilst independent in lots of acts, requires prompt and helpful day-to-day tasks. Your carers are simply perfect for her as she is very jolly and needs and enjoys socialising. Simply perfect, you have enhanced her life and given me reassurance that there are others who I can work with to ensure she is safe and happy.”

Daughter of client, 5-star review on Homecare.co.uk

Key findings from Home Instead UK research

The research at Home Instead UK reveals a compelling trend: the anxiety about moving into a care home vastly overshadows concerns about other major life events. A striking 44% of respondents expressed their apprehension about relocating to a care home, and this figure jumps to 60% among those aged 66-74.

Furthermore, a significant majority — about 80% — stated a preference for receiving medical care at home. This percentage climbs even higher among the oldest respondents, with 86% to 91% favouring in-home treatment. Notably, 54% of those surveyed believe that homes are underutilised spaces for medical treatments, indicating a growing demand for home-based care solutions.

A happy senior wearing eyeglasses sitting inside the kitchen while laughing with her carer wearing green and a pair of eyeglasses with two mugs on top of the table

Our commitment to supporting independence at home in our local area

At Home Instead Bournemouth and Christchurch, we are committed to enabling older adults to live independently in the comfort of their own homes for as long as they wish, respecting their preferences and choices as they grow older.

Our wide range of personalised home care services — from regular visits and companionship to more comprehensive live-in care, specialist dementia care, and complex care — ensures that our clients can continue to enjoy their preferred lifestyle at home, even when they require some additional support.

With our award-winning training programmes, our Care Professionals deliver high-quality care with compassion and understanding, helping clients feel safe, comfortable, and valued in their own homes.

We are proud to serve the Bournemouth and Christchurch communities, including Friars Cliff,Highcliffe, Southbourne, and Mudeford, with our personal touch for every client and every home visit, ensuring that our clients can continue living independently and happily in their familiar surroundings.

Care at home in Bournemouth and Christchurch

Our 9.8 out of 10 review rating (as of Sept 2024) on Homecare.co.uk reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality, compassionate care that is trusted by families throughout the area. We take immense pride in the positive impact we make on the lives of our clients and their families. 

To learn more about our local home care services at Home Instead Bournemouth and Christchurch, call our exceptional team for a friendly and professional conversation on 01202 853197.  

If you’re passionate about making a difference and want to join our team, you can apply to become a local Care Professional online at our website.

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A woman with black blazer and holding an ipad while showing something to an old man wearing black and looking at the ipad while sitting on a couch