One in three Britons anticipate becoming an unpaid carer within the next decade yet nearly half confess they wouldn’t know where to turn for support when the time comes. A survey of 2,000 adults revealed that two thirds fear they will need to provide escalating levels of care for ageing parents, or loved ones as their health deteriorates.
Cooking, cleaning and other domestic duties were key tasks associated with being an unpaid carer. This was along with assisting with washing, dressing and mobility. Two thirds also considered organising medical appointments – including eye tests and hearing checks – as a key role of being a carer.
Only 39 per cent said they would know where to turn for support for friends and family who can no longer leave their homes without help, while 46 per cent remain oblivious to the services available.
The study was commissioned by Specsavers Home Visits as part of its Most Valuable Portrait campaign, which honours the hidden contribution of unpaid carers through a portrait by renowned artist Colin Davidson.
The research found two thirds (67 per cent) believe unpaid carers don’t get the recognition or support they merit – despite their efforts being valued at roughly £184 billion annually to the UK economy, according to Carers UK.
The artwork features carer Jaycee Le Bouche and seeks to highlight carers’ selflessness and commitment, having been symbolically ‘priced’ at £184 billion by auction house Roseberys – matching the value of the UK’s invisible care system.
Chris Smith, director of Specsavers Home Visits, said: “When a loved one becomes ill, it can turn your life on its head – both practically and emotionally.
“Many people become carers overnight, with no training and little idea where to turn, which can be overwhelming, especially while juggling work and a personal life in tandem.”
A third would feel more at ease talking about future care if they understood what choices were on offer, the survey found, carried out through OnePoll.
Whilst 29 per cent would be more willing if they had a better grasp of the financial consequences of failing to plan ahead.
The study also showed two in three frequently consider whether they might eventually require care themselves. Four in ten stated a significant life event would prompt them to start such discussions with family members.
Chris Smith added: “Unpaid carers shouldn’t have to do it alone. That’s why we’re doing our bit through our Home Visits service – delivering essential eye and ear care at home to help ease the load and support both carers and those they look after.”