EXCLUSIVE: The Positive Ageing Company has launched an online programme that aims to help employers support employees with eldercare responsibilities.
Its programme, AgeingWorks, is a one-stop shop of information and services that employees can use to better prepare for and manage the challenges and opportunities that ageing can present.
The information and services provided include:
- Health and wellness, including information on topics such as nutrition, exercise and dementia.
- Care including emergency care, live-in care or home help.
- Safety and security, such as falls awareness, home safety and personal safety.
- Legal issues, including wills, power of attorney and government assistance.
- Independent living, such as mobility, home adaptations and occupational therapists.
- Financial matters, including care planning, equity release and pension advice.
- Social and loneliness topics, such as friends and family, activities and volunteering.
The programme includes:
- Information, checklists and tips that can be shared with family members online or via Royal Mail.
- Action steps linked to resources, which aim to save employees time and stress.
- 24/7 access to the online portal.
Chris Minett, managing director of The Positive Ageing Company, said: “The Positive Ageing Company has recognised that organisations are becoming increasingly aware of the significant direct and indirect challenges and opportunities that our ageing demographics present to their business.
“Employers that are already taking a proactive and forward-thinking approach to managing their ageing workforce will reap significant competitive advantages.
“This means recognising the changing needs of their ageing workforce and supporting employees to deal with family ageing-related pressures. Particularly affected are those caught in the sandwich generation, working carers and expatriate employees.
“Traditionally, employee benefits have focused on childcare and child support for employees in their role as parents. However, these employees now also have to deal with the multiple challenges that ageing presents, to their family and to themselves.
“They are increasingly looking for support and benefits from their employer that are relevant to their changing needs and lifestyles. This is what the AgeingWorks programme delivers.”
