Elderly care (also called aged care) is the fulfillment of the different needs that senior or adult citizens can have. Residential cares in nursing homes, assisted living or hospice care are some examples. Elderly care varies a lot depending on the countries one resides in. For instance, whereas in some countries in Asia traditional methods of taking care of the eldest are preferred, in the UK the elderly care has traditionally been funded by the state and there are an increasing number of retirement villages for those senior whose needs are simple. The fact that the elder population is increasing in so-called developed countries has entailed changes in architecture. Extra care buildings involve safety and controlled entries to nursing homes, accessible housing design and assistive and easy community alarms. In these buildings the eldest usually need to have access to care and support services 24 hours a day, as well as activities and communal spaces. So architects should pay close attention to the new demands of this part of the population. Design and elder-friendly devices should be focused on improving mobility: safe stairs, well lighted spaces and better baths are only some examples regarding this approach.

In countries like Canada or Australia the eldest may pay for their care based on their annual income. In Canada, the scale depends on whether they need what they call “Assisted Living” or “Long Term Care”.

If you want to work with the social care of the eldest in the UK, you need a level two in care to become a senior care assistant. This usually takes up to two years to complete. The next qualification would be a level three, which takes up to a year. Aged care assistants continue studying to hold a Certificate IV Ageing Support CHC43015. However, if you hold a level two you can work with the elderly as a residential care worker, personal advisor and health promotion officer or counsellor.

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