About half a million elderly people live in UK residential homes and hospitals. 70% have hearing problems (1). Hearing loss increases the risk of developing dementia by up to five times. Hearing aids can help to prevent or delay dementia (2) but they require regular cleaning and their plastic tubing needs replacing every few months. … Continued
As we age, we all can experience changes that can cause glitches in our brain functions, making things we have always found easy to do, much harder. It can sometimes take us longer to learn and recall things; we’re maybe not as quick as we once were; and we can start to worry about our … Continued
An overview ‘People of all sexualities have the right to equal respect, value and integrity’ (Davies, N. et al. 1996, 22). Societal attitudes towards people who identify under the LGBTQ+ umbrella have undergone a significant change since the Equality Act (2010) affording greater protection from discrimination. However, although many LGBTQ+ people are able to live … Continued
Here is the wonderful Maureen, who has been involved in a really tough battle with cancer. Maureen has had two volunteer advocates to help her during this difficult time – but she helps them in return by being so inspiring! Here is what Maureen had to say about her involvement with advocates. “Although I don’t … Continued
Loneliness and isolation are words indicate that a person may feel abandoned or left alone against their wishes or choice. However, it is possible to feel lonely or isolated when living with others, maybe even in the company of relatives and friends. Therefore it is important to distinguish between loneliness and being alone. For example … Continued
Elderly and isolated people can be vulnerable when ill health adds to their existing problems. Patients may need extra support to express and secure their choices for treatment, especially where the patient’s choice may differ from the medical team. The advocate can help the patient formulate his or her expressed desires into a treatment plan … Continued
Older people can be particularly vulnerable to isolation and loneliness leading to anxiety, depression and lack of confidence, which in turn can cause serious health problems. We can all help the elderly find ways to overcome loneliness, even if they live alone and find it hard to get out. There are thousands of older … Continued
Members will be glad to know that the EY report on Society’s Return on Investment in older people’s cancer advocacy services is now available to download from the OPAAL website here. Legal restrictions mean that the report can’t be freely shared without completion of a disclaimer on the website and once downloaded should not be … Continued
Transparent as ever we’ll be honest, this is our first attempt at a document of this kind. We aim for you to get to know us, learn of the exciting things we do with and for older people, perhaps then you’d like to join us. Download our Impact Statement here.
The OPAAL e-bulletin for April 2018 can be found here.