“The want for independence!”: factors influencing care preferences for older people living in a local authority in northwest England

Purpose This paper aims to report a project evaluating public opinions regarding factors determining preferred place and type of care in older age. Design/methodology/approach A service evaluation using appreciative inquiry and co-creation was conducted. Participants were recruited via convenience sampling from public places and care/support facilities. Data were captured using five methods: four innovative, creative approaches (Snap Judgement, 3-Word elicitation, Ideas Board, Scenarios) and a survey. Results were analysed thematically. Findings There were 126 participants in the study; the majority expressed a preference for care in their own home. Closeness to family and friends was the most important factor in choice, followed by cost. A wide variety of sources were identified to gain information about care. A desire was expressed for local community-based care options. Research limitations/implications Findings suggest most people may prefer to remain at home as they age, emphasising importance of domiciliary care in maximising independence. Leveraging technology could aid this goal. Further application of the creative methods used is essential to determine their effectiveness and validity. Practical implications Unless individuals plan for their care arrangements in older age, the location and type of care may be determined at point of need, with minimal or no input from individuals involved. This may result in people not receiving their preferred mode of care. Originality/value Assisted by the local authority’s proactiveness in commissioning the project, researchers actively engaged with the public in a variety of settings. Innovative data collection methods enabled capture of rich data, and data triangulation strengthened trustworthiness.