Why is this National Indicator important?
People tell us they want to stay at home as long as possible. Not only is this understandable from their personal perspective, there is also significant evidence that this helps them remain more independent for longer. This makes it a Government priority to increase the availability of home care and support for people, particularly those with high levels of care needs. As the population ages, and the number of people with complex care needs increases, the need to provide appropriate care and support becomes even more important. Innovative approaches such as re-ablement, 'telecare' and 'telehealth', which use new technology to support people at home, will have an increasing part to play.
What will influence this National Indicator?
The place where people are cared for is influenced by a number of factors, above all their needs and their level of dependency. But the availability locally of affordable appropriate alternative care services, and accommodation is also important. Personal factors include: individuals' dependency levels; whether they live alone; and whether they have a carer. Access to personal income is becoming increasing important also, as public funding becomes more challenging as budgets are spread thinner. The extent to which comprehensive, intensive home care packages are available to keep people at home safely and well supported is also a key factor. The increase in access to telecare support means more people can be looked after at home. The importance of enabling carers to continue their caring role cannot be overstated.
What is the Government's role?
Central, local government and the NHS have a major role in delivering progress on this indicator. This can be achieved through moving services closer to people's own homes, developing more joined up home care services with NHS Boards and ensuring that people have their needs for care properly assessed through, for example, single shared assessments. Jointly commissioned flexible care will become increasingly important through the integration of health and social care.
How is Scotland performing?
There has been an increase in recent years in the percentage of people receiving personal care at home, rather than in a care home or hospital. The latest figure of 60.6% for 2010-11 is an increase compared to 59.4% in 2009-10.
The data for this chart is available at the bottom of the page
Source: Scottish Government and ISD
Criteria for recent change
The evaluation is based on: any difference within +/- 0.5 percentage points of last year's figure suggests that the position is more likely to be maintaining than showing any change. An increase of 0.5 percentage points or more suggests the position is improving; whereas a decrease of 0.5 percentage points or more suggests the position is worsening.
Further Information
For information on general methodological approach, please click here.
Scotland Performs Technical Note
Who are our partners?
NHS Scotland
Local Authorities
Third and Independent Care Providers
Related Strategic Objectives
Wealthier and Fairer
Healthier
Safer and Stronger