Care homes and independence

Sir, While Nick Sanderson is correct in endorsing the right to independence in older age, he loses sight of an individual’s right to choose (“Home care”, letter, Mar 15). He is very wrong to assert that no one wants to live in a care home. Many people in care homes enjoy the companionship of their fellow residents, as well as the dedicated and high quality care available in the overwhelming majority of homes. For some people, the independence Nick Sanderson demands for them is only a degree of separation from isolation and loneliness.

Moreover, as many health economists will concur, the future demographic will demand an array of care solutions, including care homes, to meet the needs of the growing older population. All these will need to be properly funded (via a mixed economy but including public funding) to give all older and vulnerable people the independence, choice and equality they deserve.