Assisted Living facilities provide a safe and secure environment where vulnerable individuals can receive the care and support they need. The need for Assisted Living accommodation in the United Kingdom is increasing year on year, fuelled by a growing aging population as well as by the constant demand from people of all ages who require assistance with daily living.
According to a report by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the number of people aged 65 and over in the UK is expected to reach 15.2 million by 2026, an increase of 19% from 2021. This increase in the elderly population is likely to result in a greater demand for Assisted Living facilities, as many of these individuals will require assistance with daily living.
A report by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), projects the number of people aged 85 and above to increase by 70% over the next 25 years. By 2046, this will mean approximately 3.5 million people over 85 in the UK, compared to just over 2 million in 2021. This will place a significant strain on our healthcare and social care systems, heightening the need for Assisted Living facilities.
A marked decline in family support also contributes to the increasing demand for Assisted Living accommodation. With more people choosing to live alone, having smaller families, or living distanced from close family, along with today’s propensity for capable adults to be in full-time employment, there is a decrease in the availability of family members to provide care for individuals with disabilities or for elderly relatives.
The UK government recognises the need for increased support for individuals who require assistance with daily living activities and is committed to improving the quality and availability of Assisted Living facilities. Several initiatives have been introduced aimed at improving quality of life for these individuals. These include the provision of funding for the construction of new Assisted Living facilities as well as help in regulating the quality of care provided by existing facilities.