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Call for change to 'unfair' care system
Calls for an end to the "cruel lottery" facing people in old age have been made as Sunderland's ageing population grows.
A new "National Care Service" could be set up to look after the elderly, under Government proposals.
In 20 years time, nearly half Wearside's population will be over 50, but adequate care is not in place.
Older people with cancer receive the care they need for free on the NHS, but those with dementia or Alzheimer's have to pay once they start requiring 24-hour care.
Alan Patchett, head of Age Concern Sunderland, said: "Our view is that the current system is very unfair.
Older people who have assets are being forced to sell their homes for the care they need.
"We know Government resources are not unlimited, but at the end of the day people should get the care that they need and deserve."
Mr Patchett said people of a certain age were becoming increasingly worried about their future and how they will pay to be looked after during their old age.
He said: "I think it's very difficult because people who go into care homes are often those who don't have relatives or people to care for them so they are already isolated.
"They are the unseen and the forgotten of this community."
Care worker and activities co-ordinator Chris Walker, of Thornbury Care Centre, Thorney Close, said society had turned its back on older people.
A recent bid to raise funds for residents who cannot afford days out or treats failed when no one donated raffle prizes.
Chris said: "We used to have raffles and people put forwards lots of prizes but now big supermarkets like Asda and Sainsburys are only interested in cancer charities.
"No one wants to give to dementia or Alzheimer's. It's absolutely terrible."
On Monday, the Government said the retirement age of 65 could be scrapped or raised, allowing people to work for longer to pay for their old age.
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Friday 10 February 2012
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