Care for older people inquiry

Older people are receiving such poor homecare that their human rights are being ignored.

Cases of neglect and a general lack of respect for the dignity and privacy of older people have been highlighted by an inquiry by the Equality and Human Rights Commission into homecare visits for the over 65s.

Short visits by staff can mean that people have to choose between a wash and a cooked meal. There have been cases of people being left in bed for 17 hours or more between visits according to the report.

The commission gathered evidence for the inquiry from 250 care home providers, a survey completed by 54% of local authorities and 500 written submissions from older people and their families, along with 101 from home care staff.

Care services minister: No place for poor quality care

Age UK: Basic rights are being breached

ADASS: Older people must complain more