Increase in the elderly population
The population is ageing, and with this demographic shift we can expect a rise in demand for SLT stroke and dementia services.
Longer life expectancies bring higher rates of long-term conditions and multi-morbidities, and SLTs will have to work with a wide range of different professionals and services to provide a joined-up service. Furthermore, the role that SLTs play in palliative care may also be expanded.
Related Sectors Related Specialities
- Healthcare
- Social care
- Public health
- Allied health professionals
Related Themes Related Projects
Size of impact
Level of uncertainty
Proposed workforce impact
- Increased demand for specialist stroke and dementia services perhaps require more SLTs specialised in stroke and dementia care.
- SLTs will continue to work in diverse MDTs to provide these services.
- Increased training may be needed to raise awareness in the workforce of care for the elderly.
Sources or references
- www.ons.gov.uk/ons/dcp171776_258607.pdf
- http://www.economist.com/topics/ageing-and-elderly
- http://blog.asha.org/2013/01/24/aging-population-communication-disorders/
Additional research questions
- Can technology help in delivering care for the elderly?
- How much will demand for services increase?
Some of the information in this section is provided by stakeholders and expert groups, and does not necessarily represent the views of the CfWI.
