Personal care describes the support a person receives for everyday activities. These include getting in and out of bed, getting to the toilet and having a bath or shower, getting dressed or preparing a meal.
Providing older people with the necessary care and support they need to maintain their independence, dignity and ability to enjoy later life is what we expect in a compassionate society. However, today, in England, receiving such support has become a game of chance: based on where you live and your ability to pay.
We don't believe this is right and it is time for change.
Independent Age is calling for the introduction of free personal care for older people. Initially this will be based on current eligibility criteria, but the ultimate goal is that all older people who need personal care will receive it free at the point of need.
Read more about our work on free personal care and learn why Independent Age is calling for its introduction and how this can be made a reality.