Elderly care is considered to be in a bit of a crisis in the UK; many elderly people either don’t want to go into residential homes, they or their families can’t afford the costs, or, they cannot find a suitable placement.
Having some sense of independence and dignity is important for an elderly person, that’s why many children now choose to have their parents close by in their older years; either living with them or in a granny annexe. Below we discuss the benefits for both parent and child of elderly care in a granny annexe.
Elderly Care Crisis
According to Age UK, 1.4 million elderly people in the UK are struggling with care. They list several issues that are currently having an impact on elderly care;
- Underfunding – in the last 5 years there has been a £160 million cut in total public spending on older people’s social care despite a rapidly increasing demand because of our ageing population
- Postcode lottery – despite the 2014 Care Act introducing a national system of eligibility, local variation is still leaving many older people without any support
- Unmet need – 1.2 million people aged 65 plus don’t receive the care support they need with essential living activities
- Declining access – cuts in local authority care services have placed increasing pressure on unpaid carers
Some people, in a bid to ensure that their parents don’t fall into a system that is failing, are choosing to look after their relatives at home. It isn’t uncommon to find many families who have an elderly relative living with them. One of the very best solutions for elderly care at home is a granny annexe.
Elderly Care at Home in A Granny Annexe
As mentioned, some people are choosing to care for their elderly parents at home in a granny annexe. This can provide an excellent solution for both you and your parent/s.
Firstly, there may be financial benefits to building a granny annexe. The cost of private care in the UK is high, both at home care and residential homes. If a parent has a property to sell, all if not most of the profit may have to be spent on present and future care. A granny annexe can be a cheaper option for some families.
Older people want to live, not just exist – another reason why a granny annexe can be a better option. Living in a granny annexe, your Mom, or Dad, would be able to live as independently as possible for as long as they can. Surrounded by their belongings, memories, and, with their family close by.
If your parents are pet owners, a granny annexe is ideal – many residential homes or assisted living communities do not allow pets. Caring for a pet can be a great source of comfort for an older person and living in an annexe would afford them the space to do that.
In addition to giving your parents their own space, a granny annexe will give you yours too. The idea of a parent moving in can be daunting – nobody wants to live in each other’s pockets. A granny annexe situated away from the main house gives you both the best of both worlds; privacy and independence, with the option to be there quickly when something is needed.
Even for a relative that may need more intensive care; help with getting dressed, cooking and cleaning, for example, could still benefit from living in a granny annexe. You could help them with the tasks they need assistance with, leaving them to remain independent in other areas.
Caring for an elderly relative in a granny annexe can also be good for their peace of mind – and yours. Many people today have busy lives and worrying about their parents or having to travel long distances to visit them can add stress. if you know your relative is in the annexe in your garden, you can rest your mind, knowing that they are safe. it’s also quick and easy to check up on them.
Considering a Granny Annexe For Your Relative?
If you or a parent are considering building a granny annexe, why not take a look at our core range? Designed and built to provide comfortable elderly care, you and your relative can both benefit.
If you have any questions about our annexes, please contact us.
