With thanks to the cost of living crisis, the average British household will see their annual energy bill rise to near £3,500. Figures from a recent ONS report show the vast majority of the elderly are seeing an increase in their overall cost of living.
The report indicates that those aged over 70 are finding it hard to afford the essentials on top of the growing essential care costs. It is worrying to know that some have even had to cancel their care visits in order to get by and pay for food and heating bills.
According to the ONS study, the average pensioner would need £215 per week to cover their basic costs which would include:
- Food
- Travel
- Clothing
- Heating
While the current amount for the state pension is £185.15 per week. Something has to give and this is where assistive technology can help.
The Cost of Care Visits:
Over 80% of the elderly wish to stay in their own home and maintain independence. Assistive technology can help this become a reality. This is why it is crucial that it be built into all packages of care.
The average cost of a home visit is between £15-£35 per visit. This type of visit is merely a check in and you would have them 3-4 times a day. The healthcare professional may pop in to help you get up, dressed and get you ready for the day, they may even help you prepare breakfast.
Each subsequent care visit could be to check in, help prepare a meal, give medication and pop the kettle on for a cuppa for you.
These visits can all add up. If you or your loved one where to need/have 4 visits per day, 7 days a week, it could cost you £420-£980 per week. Thankfully, many studies have proven that by using assistive technology, your care visits can be reduced by an average of 4 hours a week when compared to those who do not use it.
Assistive Technology:
In short, assistive technology is an enabler. It allows people to live at home for longer, give them confidence and help them maintain a greater level of independence.
Many of us are guilty of taking the small things for granted. With being able to pop a sock on without issue or make ourselves a cuppa. When the time comes that you are no longer able to do these things, it can have a substantial impact on your:
- Quality of life
- Independence
- Confidence
- Mental Health
It can be a hard transition for many to have to comes to terms with, if they do at all.
How Can Assistive Technology Help?
As assistive technology is an ever growing industry, there are a number of options available to help support many at home:
Personal alarms to help monitor trips and falls at home.
- Wearable GPS devices.
- Dressing aids.
- Mobility/walking aids.
- Daily Living aids to make life safer and easier.
Here at Uccello, we specialise in the design and manufacture of daily living aids for the kitchen. Primarily around the handling and management of hot water. With assistive products like our Uccello Kettle, Muggi Cup Holder and Uccello Grip Mat.
Assistive Technology in the Kitchen:
Investing in assistive technology like our Uccello Kettle etc. can help you greatly reduce your care costs. Studies have shown that those who use assistive technology can have up to a 10% reduction in deterioration.
Our Uccello Kettle (£49.96 ex VAT) can be bought here on our website or in store. Compared to the daily cost of a care visit, the it will have paid for itself after just 2 days.
Leave a Comment