Why Elderly Care is in high demand for Monmouthshire
The population has continued to age. Across Wales, more than one in five people (21.3%) were aged 65 years and over on in 2021. This is a higher percentage than ever before!
There were more people than ever aged 65 years and over in Wales
Monmouthshire, with its picturesque towns like Monmouth, Usk, Abergavenny, and Pontypool, has long been a haven for those seeking a fulfilling life, and now a peaceful retirement.However, data from the latest 2021 Census reveals significant demographic shifts that are reshaping the landscape of elderly care in the region.
An Ageing Population: The Statistics
Between 2011 and 2021, Monmouthshire’s population grew by 1.8%, reaching nearly 93,000 residents. This is higher than the overall increase for Wales (1.4%), where the population grew by 44,000 over the decade period. This ageing trend underscores a growing need for comprehensive elderly care services.
Wales has seen an increase of 17.7% of the population aged 65 years and over, a decrease of 2.5% in people aged 15 to 64 years, and a decrease of 1.0% in children aged under 15 years. Whilst specifically Monmouthshire compares; an increase of 26.0% in people aged 65 years and over, a decrease of 3.5% in people aged 15 to 64 years, and a decrease of 8.6% in children aged under 15 years.
This ageing trend underscores a growing need for comprehensive elderly care services.
The Shift Away from Traditional Care Homes
Recent data reveals a telling trend: while the population of people aged 65 and over continues to grow in Monmouthshire, the proportion of those living in residential care homes has actually declined—from 3.2% in 2011 to 2.5% in 2021. This shift reflects a clear and growing desire among older adults to age in place—that is, to remain living in the comfort, safety, and familiarity of their own homes for as long as possible.
There are many reasons behind this change. For one, today’s elderly generation values independence and autonomy. Their home is not just a building—it’s a lifetime of memories, community connections, and a deep sense of belonging. Moving into a care home often feels like losing that identity and control.
At the same time, advances in in-home care mean that high-quality, compassionate support is more accessible than ever before—enabling people to receive professional assistance without relocating. Personal care, medication reminders, mobility support, and even dementia care can now be delivered right in the heart of their home.
However, while the desire to remain at home is strong, the practicalities of supporting an elderly parent or loved one can be overwhelming for families—especially those juggling jobs, children, and long commutes.
We regularly hear questions from families in Monmouth, Usk, Abergavenny, and Pontypool like:
“How can I support Mum or Dad without giving up my job?”
“What if they forget to take their medication or leave the oven on?”
“They’ve said they never want to go into a care home—what are my options?”
These are real and valid concerns. The emotional weight of ensuring a loved one is safe, healthy, and happy—while also respecting their wishes—can be heavy to bear alone.
That’s exactly where Home Instead Monmouthshire steps in.
We bridge the gap between the desire for independence and the need for care. Our flexible, relationship-led home care services provide peace of mind for families and practical support for older adults—whether it’s a few hours a week or round-the-clock live-in care.
“After weeks of worrying about Dad living alone, Home Instead became our lifeline. The same carer visits him daily, and now I sleep easier knowing he’s not alone.”
– Emily, daughter of a client in Pontypool
From personalised care plans and companionship visits to dementia support and live-in care, we make it possible for older adults in Monmouthshire to thrive at home—just as they wish.