Some interesting information about services for the elderly
Hearing
Are you aware that a hearing test is available to you over the phone?
A hearing test is available from Action on Hearing Losson 0844 800 3838 (local rate call), this is just an initial screening test and should be not be seen a substitute for a full hearing test.
For further information call the above number or visit the website at weblink
hearing problems
Care at home / help from social services
Help can be provided at home through paid workers employed by the local authority to assist with nursing care at home and intermediate care.
Financial support can be provided and more information can be found at web link
Financial support for caring
Equipment can also be provided and help people to be more independent this can be accessed via Social Services:
Web link - community care assessment.
Directgov website can provide advice about assessments:
Web link – Needs Assessments and social services
Services available include:
healthcare
equipment
help in the home orin a care home
community support and activities
access to day centers
help for people with disabilities
financial support
information and advisory services
support for carers
Charitable organisations
Home warmth
Keeping warm over the winter months can help to prevent colds, flu and serious health problems such as heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia and depression.
NHS Choices has helpful tips to keep you & your home warm in the winter weather, how to travel safely in wintery conditions and links to the met office weather forecast.
Age UK has a guide for keeping warm and healthy during the winter months. The guide covers preparing for winter, staying healthy, keeping your home warm and what extra money people could be eligible for. It also covers a list of helpful organisations.
Carers Trust website
Carers Trust is a charity that provides breaks for carers, local schemes can offer local services to allow carers to take a break and know the person they look after is being cared for. Referrals can be made by carers, families of carers,your social services department, health workers and voluntary organisations.
Acare manager from Carers Trust will discuss with you:
the kind of help you need,
how often you would like them to visit,
how long you would like them to visit for, and
a suitable time for visits to take place.
Respite services available include:
extended care,
hospice at home
overnight services,
palliative care,
rapid response team, and
traditional respite.
Private Organisations
Care Watch
Care Watch is a private organisation that can help provide home care support in the community with domestic tasks, personal care and support for stroke or dementia rehabilitation. All of these services can be provided in the person’s home and is an alternative option to residential care and nursing homes.
Other
Safety checks
Safety recommendations include;
Have a cordless phone /mobile on the person at all times
Make sure any external stairs have a hand rail fitted
Ensure rugs and mats are slip resistant and are stuck down to prevent trips or falls
Secure any hazardous wires and remove clutter from walkways
Make sure adequate lighting is installed
Dressing or mobility aids, and trolleys may help people to move around more easily
Check fire & carbon monoxide alarms are installed and working correctly. The fire brigade may be able to fit and check free fire alarms.
New boilers and home insulation are being offered to certain people on pension credit, which will save money on electricity bills. The links below offer more information.
W:\Clinical area\GP FORMS\E\Elderly\Some interesting information about services for the elderly.doc