Preparing for later life in Norfolk

This report is part of a three-year project run by Healthwatch Norfolk for Norfolk County Council Adult Social Care. The project looks at how people aged 55 and over are preparing for later life, and how health and social care services can support them to stay independent for as long as possible. 

Healthwatch carried out focus groups and a survey across the county to find out what people expect from later life, what steps they are already taking, and what help they would like.  They heard from 237 people.

 Most people had negative expectations of later life, often linking ageing with decline, poor health, loss of independence and limited support from health and care services. Many were worried about long waiting times, feeling dismissed by professionals because of their age, and experiencing what they saw as ageism in health services. Money worries and the rising cost of living were also major concerns. Some people did describe positive expectations, especially around family life, hobbies and social connections, but these were less common. 

When it came to preparing for later life, most people said they were eating healthily, staying physically active, making a will, and keeping socially connected. Fewer people had set up a lasting power of attorney, adapted their homes, or used technology to support independence. People with long-term conditions and disabilities were more likely to adapt their homes or use technology, but often found it harder to maintain social connections. People from minority ethnic backgrounds faced particular barriers with pensions and wills, often due to having spent less time in the UK. 

When asked to prioritise, people felt the most important preparations were staying active, eating well, and keeping socially connected. Many were reluctant to set up a power of attorney, often due to lack of trust, confusion about what it involves, or the belief it is expensive. Others were motivated by personal stories from friends or family, showing that peer experiences have a big influence on decisions. Most people welcomed the idea of taking more responsibility for staying independent, but they stressed that not everyone can prepare alone. Some lack money, confidence, health, or social networks, and would need more support. 

People wanted balanced services that encourage independence but still provide help where needed. They also wanted clear, timely, and non-patronising information about preparing for later life, available in a mix of formats—leaflets, websites, and local drop-in sessions—and provided in places people already use, like GP surgeries, libraries, supermarkets, and community centres. 

People said the main types of help they wanted were: affordable opportunities to stay active, ways to stay socially connected, practical support with adapting their homes, more accessible information, and support for carers. Community centres and local groups were seen as vital but underused resources, and many people valued intergenerational activities rather than being placed only in “older people’s groups.” 

The  findings suggest that most older people want to prepare well for the future, but need the right support and information to do so. Services should make the best use of community resources, recognise the needs of different groups, and address people’s concerns about ageism in health care.