At Home Instead Charnwood, we are proud to share insights from the latest New Ageing Index—ground-breaking research and the first of its kind within the home care sector.
This report captures the public’s attitudes toward ageing, health, social care, and the realities faced by both older adults and family carers today.

Repeated quarterly over the past year, the New Ageing Index gives us a clear picture of how people feel about later life and highlights the challenges, hopes and priorities shaping our community. By understanding these trends, we can continue to provide the most compassionate, tailored and relevant support to local families.

In this blog, we break down the key findings and what they mean for ageing individuals across Charnwood, Loughborough and the surrounding villages.

1. Dementia Concerns Are Rising

One of the most striking findings is that 43% of people now consider dementia a bigger threat than cancer, up from 39% last year.
This growing concern reflects the increasing number of families affected by dementia and the urgent need for awareness, early diagnosis and long-term support.

At Home Instead Charnwood, we specialise in relationship-led dementia care, supporting clients with patience, understanding and consistency. Our Care Professionals are trained to approach each day with empathy, calm and reassurance—creating security for both the individual and their family.

2. Family Carers Need More Support Than Ever

The report shows that 77% of family carers feel they need more help—a significant rise from 68%.
Caring for an ageing loved one is rewarding, but it can also be overwhelming, emotionally draining and isolating.

This statistic highlights a growing pressure on informal carers who balance work, family life and the daily care needs of their loved ones.

Our role at Home Instead Charnwood is to step in and offer practical support, companionship and respite to ease this burden. Whether it’s help with personal care, safe mobility, medication reminders or simply a friendly face to talk to, we are here to support carers as well as clients.

3. Caring Brings Meaning and Purpose

Despite the challenges, the Index also reveals a beautiful truth:
76% of family carers say looking after a loved one brings happiness and purpose, up from 55%.

This rise reflects the deep connections carers build with their loved ones and the sense of fulfilment that comes from supporting someone through later life.

At Home Instead Charnwood, we deeply value these bonds—we see them every day. Our care model is based on building meaningful relationships and providing time for real connection, not rushed visits.

4. Growing Interest in Private Care Options

With confidence in state-funded care declining, 50% of adults would now consider private health or social care options, up from 46%.
Families are increasingly seeking reliable, flexible and personalised care that allows older adults to remain safely at home.

This shift emphasises the need for high-quality, transparent local services—something we are committed to providing.

Our care plans are bespoke, built around each person’s needs, and designed to support independence, dignity and choice.

5. Dementia Should Be Declared a Health Emergency

Another significant insight: 63% of people believe dementia should be declared a health emergency, up from 57%.
This reflects a public call for faster diagnosis, increased funding and improved local support systems.

Timely access to dementia pathways is essential. At Home Instead Charnwood, we guide families through this process, offering clarity, comfort and practical help when it’s needed most.

6. Positivity About Later Life Is Increasing

One of the most uplifting findings is the rise in optimism about ageing:

• Among younger adults: 38% → 54%

• Among family carers: 41% → 66%

This growing positivity shows a cultural shift—people are starting to see later life not as a decline, but as a stage with potential, connection and purpose.

Our goal is to help every older adult in Charnwood experience a fulfilling, meaningful later life in the comfort of their own home.

7. Technology Is Seen as a Key to Reducing Loneliness

Technology continues to play an important role in the wellbeing of older adults.
The Index shows:

• 90% believe older people need more support using tech

• 84% believe AI and smart technology can help reduce loneliness

At Home Instead Charnwood, we are embracing these opportunities—supporting clients to stay connected through digital devices, video calls, apps and online activities.

Technology will never replace human connection, but it can enhance it.

8. Faster Dementia Assessment Is a Public Priority

Finally, 80% of people believe local authorities should speed up dementia assessment and diagnosis.
Early diagnosis can make a life-changing difference, enabling families to plan ahead, access support sooner and manage symptoms more effectively.

We stand alongside the families of Charnwood in supporting this call for urgent improvement.

What the New Ageing Index Means for Charnwood

These insights give us a deeper understanding of the needs, concerns and hopes of the older adults and families we support daily.
As a local care provider, this research helps us tailor our services, evolve our training and deliver care that truly reflects the priorities of our community.

At Home Instead Charnwood, our focus remains clear:
💜 Supporting independence
💜 Strengthening family resilience
💜 Providing compassionate, relationship-led care
💜 Helping older adults feel safe, valued and connected

To learn more about how these findings shape our local approach—or to discuss support for a loved one—contact our team today:

📞 01162165306
📧 [email protected]

You can also explore the full New Ageing Index report here:
👉 www.homeinstead.co.uk/new-ageing-index