Many people could struggle to pay for the long-term care they may need during retirement.

According to the international Bupa Health Pulse study, only 30 per cent of individuals in the UK believe they need to save money to cover the cost of medical care in later life.

Furthermore, just 33 per cent of those over the age of 65 have started making monetary provisions for when they finish work.

UK director of Bupa Care Homes Oliver Thomas said it usually costs retirees around £50,000 to pay for care as well as additional services such as home adaptations, care home fees and meals on wheels.

"Most people assume all care in old age is covered by the NHS, but it's not, so paying for care can come as a shock," he added.

Director-general of trade body Safe Home Income Plans Andrea Rozario said there is a "very real chance" individuals will have to pay for some kind of care in future, although many will struggle to do so if they rely solely on their retirement income and savings.

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