Older People's wellbeing
TIPS & RESOurces
There are over 11 million people aged 65 and in ten years’ time this will have increased to 13 million people, 22% of the population. (https://ageing-better.org.uk/ageing-population)
Although we are now living longer and enjoying a better quality of life, as we age our physical and mental needs may also change such as , and some older people may experience a decline in health, cognitive or memory decline, poor health, mobility and independence which can make later age and enjoying the ‘golden age’ more challenging than in previous years.
Risks impacting the wellbeing of older (elderly) people’s wellbeing:
Although getting older doesn’t mean a major loss in any of the functionality suggested, there is an increased prevalence as we reach older age which may impair our daily living and ‘normal’ functioning.
For example, research from The National Institute of Care and Excellence found that ‘Older people, including those living in care homes, often experience depression, loneliness and low levels of satisfaction and wellbeing.’ (Promoting positive mental wellbeing for older people | Quick guides to social care topics | Social care | NICE Communities | About | NICE)
According to charity Age Concern, ‘millions of older people are living in poverty, struggling to pay their bills, or are feeling lonely and forgotten.’
Other factors that maybe more prevalent as we getting older are the impact of loss and bereavement of loved ones and friends, increased loneliness and isolation as social, work connections reduce, as well as Ageism and discrimination.
There are 5 daily needs reported that can be beneficial for older people’s wellbeing:
The Five Daily Needs of Seniors that Must be Met
- Staying Mobile
- Getting Personal Care
- Managing Medical Care
- Getting Proper Nutrition and Exercise
- Engaging in Activities and Recreation
Activities that help boost wellbeing:
Enjoying your life in later life to the maximum is possible with the right support and life adjustments can help boost wellbeing during this stage.
· Staying meaningfully active such as paid work or volunteering for a charity
· Attending community groups, online meet-ups, for social, leisure and interest groups can help you stay engaged and socially connected.
· Maintaining a healthy balanced diet and regular exercise especially outdoors in nature can help support both physical and mental health
· Maintaining practical independence via support services eg help with transportation, home chores, shopping, advice, personal care, financial advice
· Gaining health care support eg GP Support/healthcare – medication control
Supporting Services and Resources
Age Concern Charity
Provide advice on finance, benefits, legal, care and support.
Freephone number 0800 678 1602 8am-7pm daily
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/
The Silverline Helpline
Providing friendship, conversation and support
Freephone 0800 470 80 90 24hrs a day 7 days a week
https://www.thesilverline.org.uk
Centre for Ageing Better
Tackling the inequalities faced by older people, call out and challenge ageism in all its forms
For More Links Visit DIRECTORY
If you would like 1-2--1 support or free online community sessions, access to our discounted wellbeing services or information and support Contact Us .
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