Social care must adapt to digital age, as research predicts a generation of “Silver Tweeters”

People across the country will come face to face with their future selves from today, as Care Services Minister Phil Hope launches the Big Care Debate “Face of Care”.

People will be encouraged to have their say on proposals for a radical reform of the care and support system, including the creation of a new National Care Service that is fairer, simpler and more affordable for everyone.

The launch comes as new research out today shows that the next generation of pensioners are more likely to be found basking on the beach or tweeting on their 3-G phone than joining their local bowls club.

Over three-quarters (80%) of those questioned said that they would be checking their emails daily when they reach 70 years old, while a third (33%) said that they will have the latest technology, like a 3-G phone. Over half reckon they will spend their retirement travelling abroad.

The older people of tomorrow will be a toe-tapping bunch too, with a quarter (24%) saying they’ll be putting the latest music downloads on their MP3 players, while half the respondents said they would be going to music festivals and rock concerts at 70 years old.

Secretary of State for Health Andy Burnham said:

“The challenge for Government is to build a care and support system that delivers fairer, more affordable and more joined up support for older people.

“At the moment, there’s a big gap between people’s aspirations and what is affordable under the current care and support system. That’s why we’re changing care and support and we want to get people’s views on how the system needs to change.”

For further information about the Big Care Debate and links to the ‘Shaping the Future of Care Together’ green paper visit www.careandsupport.direct.gov.uk