Stiltz survey finds that over half of older Brits avoid thinking about ageing until too late
As the UK’s ageing population continues to grow, a new report from home lift company Stiltz reveals that over half (52.2%) of older adults in the UK rarely think about accessibility and mobility needs until it becomes an issue.
With ONS figures estimating that nearly one in four people in the UK will be over 65 by 2043, Stiltz is urging families to start early conversations about ageing, mobility, and future care plans before crisis strikes.
With residential care costs reaching over £65,000 a year, many families are left scrambling for alternatives when no plan is in place.
In response to rising care costs and a desire to stay connected, an additional report by Stiltz found that 60% of Brits say they are open to multi-generational living, with elderly relatives moving in with adult children. This shift offers a practical alternative to care homes, fostering stronger family bonds and offering support across generations.
Mike Lord, CEO of Stiltz, commented: “As care becomes increasingly unaffordable for many, more families are likely to consider multi-generational living as a practical solution.
“It’s a win-win for everyone. Older family members get the support of live-in carers, while younger family members benefit from free childcare, making it easier for them to keep working without the added costs.”
Instead of waiting for mobility to decline and to help families navigate these difficult but essential conversations, Stiltz has created a guide on how to talk to ageing parents about their future care needs.
Before bringing up the topic, Stiltz advises families prepare ahead of time with options such as home adaptations or local care facility services to get a better idea of what could work for their family member.
Stiltz advises listening carefully to what their family members are saying, not just about their health but also their feelings and concerns. It also suggests picking a time when their parent or loved one is relaxed, calm, and in a good mood as timing matters for this type of serious conversation.
Earlier this year research commissioned by Stiltz revealed that while the majority of older adults in the UK want to stay in their homes as they age, many feel that the support they need to do so is lacking.
