More people 'fear losing independence in old age than death', survey says

More people are afraid of losing their independence in old age and being forced to move into a nursing home than they are of dying, a survey has found.

By Andrew Hough

As elderly care becomes more expensive, more than two in three Britons fear becoming a burden on friends or family in their old age, it found.

While three in four people said they feared getting ill in their old age, just 29 per cent said they feared dying, according to the survey.

The research, from the national Disabled Living Foundation charity, also found almost half of people feared moving into an aged care facility.

The government has previously warned the health care system was facing a “time bomb” due to Britain's ageing population.

Ministers have previously said Britain's ageing population poses as big a threat to the country as climate change, as the government grapples with how to help the 1.7 million more people expected to need social care over the next two decades.

With the recession leaving many retirees and people approaching retirement with substantially less pensions, almost half feared being financially secure as they aged.

The research also found that almost two thirds of people currently help an elderly "family member, neighbour or friend with basic tasks to help them get by".

Christine Shaw, the DLF's chief executive, said with an ageing population, the system needed more people living in their homes for longer.

“People want to remain in control over their own lives, to be able to do things for themselves and carry out everyday living tasks independently, like dressing, bathing and cooking,” she said.

"Getting older should not be a barrier to having choice and control over the quality of your life, or be a reason to move out of your own home.

"Many older people just need help, ideas and advice about the simple equipment that exists to help them with daily tasks and to lead full, active and safe lives.”

She added: "It is reassuring that … a huge number of people out there are caring for neighbours, friends and family members who can’t cope with these daily living tasks.”

Mrs Shaw said the DLF had many services, which could help people maintain an independent existence.

Source: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/elderhealth/6836648/More-p eople-fear-losing-independence-in-old-age-than-death-survey- finds.html