Charity calls for more discussion on ageing

Independent Age, a charity for older people, has called for a better awareness about what it means to age, after a poll revealed two out of three over-65s have never talked to their family about the issue.

The survey suggested that many people avoid talking about the process of ageing and in particular, sensitive subjects such as end-of-life care. However, Independent Age has warned that cuts to social care budgets mean it is now more important than ever for families to talk about the future.

One in four over-65s said they were not planning to broach the subject at all, with many claiming that they were uncomfortable with bringing up the subject of who would look after them, if they were no longer able to look after themselves.

The charity cautioned that a reluctance to face the issue of ageing could mean families would make rushed decisions about care, health, housing and financial matters and has launched a new guide to encourage families to broach the subject.

The news comes as England faces the prospect of an ever ageing population, with fewer elderly people receiving care from qualified local council staff and more becoming reliant on the informal care of family members.

Janet Morrison, chief executive of Independent Age, said: "For many families, having these conversations will never be easy. For older people, it can mean facing the prospect of losing independence.

"For their relatives, it can mean facing the thought of losing a loved one or feeling overwhelmed by a sense of responsibility.

"But these are issues that only get more pressing with time. It is vital that families start talking about these issues now, so they're not left making important decisions at times of crisis or suddenly struggling to cope with significant caring responsibilities."