The Limits of Signposting: Financial Capacity and Responsibility in Later Life Social Care

The ability to manage money is crucial for independent living in later life, yet financial capacity often declines with age and cognitive impairment. This study explored how social care practitioners in England understand and enact responsibilities when older people experience difficulties managing money. Data from 28 semi-structured interviews with practitioners across local authorities, housing, homecare and voluntary organizations were analyzed via thematic analysis and triangulated with 19 professional guidance documents. Practitioners commonly recognized financial difficulties but felt untrained and uncertain about their role. Most reported "signposting," i.e. directing older people elsewhere rather than offering support, despite often not knowing which services could help. Professional guidance emphasized empowerment and safeguarding but provided little practical direction for routine financial support. The paper argues that signposting functions as an institutional mechanism that deflects responsibility for financial wellbeing, leaving many older people in a "missing middle" between financial inclusion policy and safeguarding. Strength-based approaches risk reinforcing this neglect. Policies should clarify practitioner roles, expand workforce training on financial capacity, and integrate social care with financial inclusion and consumer protection agendas. Supporting financial capability in the presence of cognitive decline must become a core element of aging and social care policy.