Advocating Change for Older People
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We’ve caught up with Juanita Williams, Independent Advocate at Sandwell Advocacy 😍, to hear her thoughts on how things have changed for her and some important people in her life during this latest lockdown. Here’s what she said.
"I’ve certainly noticed a far greater need for contact – demand is greater than ever! And this has made me acutely aware that there are people in my life that I should be calling, just as a friend. There’s someone that I used to work with, who was a bit older than me, who I saw as a work colleague every week, and she and I really hit it off. I realised I hadn’t spoken to her in a while, so I rang her, just to see how she was. I’m so glad I did.
My friend had lost two people who are close to her this year. One of them was her travelling companion, whose funeral she was not able to attend. She told me that she will never go to America again now. She said she has only been out a few times since March and that she was desperate for some kindness and companionship.
I feel that the physical effects of what has happened to us this year, is nothing compared to the impact of the isolation. We need to speak to people, and whilst phone calls and zoom calls are a poor substitute, they have to be better than nothing at all. I would urge everyone to reach out as and when they can. You can really make a difference to someone’s day.”
We couldn’t agree more Juanita – let’s all do our bit to try to combat loneliness this winter!
And if you need help with an aspect of your life, an independent advocate could help you. Click to learn more about advocacy providers in your area.
opaal.org.uk/locations/
It’s lockdown…but this time it’s winter. 🥶❄️
So what can we learn from our Scandinavian friends who are well used to coping with coldness and darkness meaning it is difficult to leave the house. Here are some tips we found.
1. Lighting a flame – a candle indoors or a bonfire outdoors gives a special feeling of cosiness that we all enjoy. A flame gives us both heat and light and a unique, living light that just boosts everyone’s mood! 🔥
2. Invest in a winter wardrobe. Online shopping including pre-loved sites like Ebay are still in full operation. Invest in a winter wardrobe that is going to enable you to enjoy your time outside. Layers is best. But if we can only exercise once a day, we don’t want the temperature to put us off, so cozy outerwear is the thing!🧤🧣
3. If the sun shines, get outside close your eyes and allow it to wash over your face for just a few moments. There will be vital Vitamin D generated which is wonderful for your health and an overall sense of wellbeing. For those who can’t get outside, a Vitamin D supplement might be useful at this time.😎
4. Embrace it! Celebrate this special time with a positive winter mindset. Enjoy the frost patterns, allow yourself that special hot drink and marvel at how lovely nature in all her glory can be at any time of year.
And let’s all get through lockdown, safely, together.❤️
www.opaal.org.uk
Covid Christmas - are you dreaming of it or dreading it?😃🎅😞
There seems to be a couple of distinct views.:
1. "If I can't be with my loved ones, I will be miserable, and that will be worse than taking a risk about my health."
2. "It's only 1 Christmas. I'll cope. It's a short term loss with the potential for long term gain. I'd rather play it safe."
Which statement do you most agree with? Please comment below!
www.opaal.org.uk
Image by a href @Pixabay
73 years! What an achievement! We are sending all our best best wishes to the Queen and Prince Philip on their 73rd wedding anniversary!
Queen and Prince Philip mark 73rd wedding anniversary with new photo
bbc.in
The royals are pictured looking at a homemade card from their great-grandchildren.It's International Men's Health Day 2020. So let's not forget to cherish and celebrate all the wonderful men in our lives, and make sure that they are in the best possible shape for a happy life all year round!😀❤️
💙 So any boys that feel blue - remember we're here for you.
⭐️ For any lads that are low - you're the star of our show.
🥇 Any guys feeling glum? We think you're number 1!
🙋♂️ And any dudes that feel down - we're just glad you're around.
Let's look after each other - after all we are all in this life together.
opaal.org.uk/