The statistical odds that you might need residential care (or go to a care home) are low. These odds do increase with age if combined with significant health and/or other needs, by which time it’s often a perfect solution.
For example: the percentage of the population living in a care home (interRAI New Zealand 2017/18):
- between the ages of 65-74 = approximately 1%
- between the ages of 75-84 = approximately 6%
- and from the age of 85+ = approximately 27%.
If you need support at any stage on your ageing journey, it more likely care will be provided to you in your home in the community. Bear in mind too that residential care is continuing to change and that it can often be used in a flexible way e.g., you can stay for a while and then go home. Care homes may also offer palliative and end of life care; providing essential services for some people.
Updated: 15 Aug 2023