Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK said:

“This latest evidence of the acute pressures on older unpaid carers reflects what we hear from those of all ages; that thousands are at breaking point, exhausted after more than two years of little or no outside support and an increasing sense of isolation.  Just a few weeks ago we published new research showing that the impact of caring on carers’ mental and physical health was topping their list of concerns and this evidence shows just how bad things are getting for older carers.  It is heart-breaking to see so many carers struggling and makes no sense.  If carers’ health breaks down, an overloaded NHS and underfunded social care system end up with vastly increased costs of providing care not just for one person but for two.

“If Government brought forward a Recovery and Respite plan, it would bring the much needed help for older and young carers, helping to repair their broken health, support family and relationships, sustain our health and care system and above all, would make families providing care feel valued and supported. “