Woman sat alone in living room next to empty chair

Preferences for Models of Care for Older People With High Care Needs: Survey of People Aged 50 years and Over in England

by mdnmslw7 | 9 Apr 2026 | Care, Economics, Healthy ageing, Publications | 0 comments

Background

The rising number of older adults, many with long-term conditions or limitations in activities of daily living, is expected to increase demand for social care services and for housing options to accommodate their future care needs. Additionally, an increasingly diverse population may require care models that respond to different preferences, beliefs and values. This study aims to explore how preferences to meet future care needs vary across demographic, socioeconomic and care-related factors.

Methods

An online survey was conducted among 2104 participants aged ≥ 50 in England. The survey collected data on participants’ sociodemographic characteristics, experiences with care and preferences for their future care and support. Descriptive statistics were used, mean and standard deviation for normally distributed continuous measures and proportions for discrete and categorical variables. Logistic regression was used to analyse the associations between these variables.

Results

Forty percent of participants would prefer to stay in their own homes (with adaptations if needed). Forty-seven percent did not have enough information on their care options, and 59% did not know where to find information. A strong socioeconomic gradient was observed in access to information and having substantial choice over care. Preferences varied significantly by age, income and ethnicity regarding communal living arrangements and community assets, such as access to cultural spaces and places of worship.

Conclusions

The study underscores the need for person-centred, flexible care models that respond to the diversity of preferences, particularly in relation to socioeconomic status and ethnic background. Most participants valued maintaining independence and control over their care, particularly those participants with prior care experience. Policymakers should prioritise a range of care options to meet diverse needs, ensuring equitable access to information and resources to support independent living. Addressing these disparities will help create more inclusive and person-centred care systems for the ageing population in England.