Inquiry by Equality and Human
Rights Commission Investigates Homecare for Over 65s in the UK
Reports of elder abuse have
appeared in the media for some time now, and with a significantly growing
senior population, this is an issue which requires addressing.
A recent inquiry by the Equality
and Human Rights Commission has found that in some cases the care of elderly
people in their own homes is so poor that basic human rights are being
ignored.
The Commission’s full report
is due to be published in November but it has been revealed that its investigation
uncovered worrying examples of neglect of our elderly population, as well
as breaches of lack of respect, dignity and privacy.
As the over-65 population
in the UK rises, this report highlights some “major problems” in the homecare
system. And as there is not enough nursing home space or funding
to cater for the ageing tsunami, how we can deliver care in the home for
older people in the UK will become more and more vital.
The report was conducted
by gathering information from surveys with NHS local authorities; primary
care trusts and private home care providers. 54% of local authorities
completed the survey, along with 250 home care providers and over 500 independent
submissions from older people and 101 from home care staff.
Some elderly people described
how undignified it felt to have to repeatedly disclose personal information
every time a new care worker visited their home; or even being undressed
in front of visitors. It was discovered that in many cases home care
workers operate on such a limited time allocation during a home visit that
an elderly person may have to choose between having a hot meal or taking
a shower.
In some cases an elderly
person was left immobile in bed for 17 hours or more between visits, or
went without a hair wash for several weeks.
A fifth of elderly people
who had completed the survey claimed that they feared complaining as they
did not want repercussions and were not sure how to go about it.
Although this inquiry has
exposed some “serious neglect” issues, it is but a snapshot at present,
and exposed many complaints, therefore emphasizing the problems.
Despite much being done to recognize the needs and human rights of our
elderly, the cuts to social care budgets naturally affects the level of
provision that can be offered and sustained.
Paul Burstow, the Care Services
minister is quoted as saying that “there can be no place for poor quality
care in care services, either in the hoe care system or in residential
homes.”
It is hoped the full report
by the Equality and Human Rights Commission will help to improve standards
of care for the elderly and expose bad practice.
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