1.2 million French people are in Autonomy loss. And this figure is likely to climb to 2 million in 2040, because seniors are more numerous, live longer, and are increasingly affected by neurodegenerative diseases. Yet, according to the national survey “Preferences and heritage in the face of time and dependency risk” (Pated 2) led by the Mederic Alzheimer Foundationin collaboration with TNS-Sofres and the Paris School of Economics, a minority of seniors are concerned about this risk of dependency.
One in three seniors think they will never be addicted
The survey questioned 3,390 people aged 50 to 79 by asking them about thirty questions on their perception of the risk of dependency, on the loss of autonomy of those around them, but also on the aid and insurance available. 63% of respondents say “not be at all concerned about what will happen after 80 years” and 42% do not want to hear about the risk of becoming addicted one day. Similarly, almost a third of participants (27%) believe that they will never be addicted. A confidence mainly expressed by those who are not faced with the loss of autonomy of a person close to them. As for the financial means that would make it possible to cope with a loss of autonomy, the respondents first mentioned their income (73%), then their savings (66% ) and public aid (32%).Only 13% have taken out long-term care insurance on an individual basis, because it is often considered too expensive and binding over too long a period.
Appeal to the spouse rather than the children
But who to call on in case of need? For nearly half of those questioned (47%), the family will bring them the necessary help. But only 4% think of appealing to their children. They therefore prefer to rely on their spouse (33%). 25% believe they will rely on professional help. As for the role of the State in supporting dependency, 49% of participants consider that it should provide more funding, “even if it means increasing social contributions or taxes“.
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