Helping older people stay healthy and happy at home
From blood pressure checks and advice on giving up smoking, to getting digital savvy, a whole host of help and support was available when an older people’s short-term services market place event was held in Margate.
Organised by the East Kent Health and Care Partnership and hosted by Age UK Thanet, the event brought together a range of organisations who support the elderly. Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust’s (KCHFT) Immunisation Team and One You Kent Team shared information, alongside Dementia and Me, Crossroads Care Kent, Thanet Safe Haven, Headway Kent, Kent and Medway Talking Therapies, Kent County Council's (KCC) Enablement Team and many others.
David Smith, a volunteer gardener with Age UK Thanet, popped in for a quick blood pressure check. One You Lifestyle Advisor Zoe Grant said: “David’s numbers were perfect! He just needs to carry on what he’s been doing.”
Vanessa Woods, Age UK Thanet’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “These events offer an opportunity for all short-term services offered by the NHS, Social Services and the third sector to come together and for older people, friends and family to see what might be suitable and what might be able to help them. It also offers a fabulous opportunity for the different organisations to network.”
Refer Kent had a stand at the event. Refer Kent is an online referral system which aims to strengthen referrals across Kent for adults and families who may be experiencing financial hardship. KCC’s Digital Kent were there too, with the team working on digital inclusion and improving digital capabilities across the county, with free classes at local venues advertised.
Evelyn Garland told visitors about Birchington Parish Council’s health and wellbeing sub committee and help available to people living alone, people at risk of falls and those who might benefit from an emergency alarm devices.
Thanet Safe Haven, a crisis mental health service, advertised the 24-hour, 365 days-a-year service for those who struggling with their mental health.
Previously, a similar event was held in Canterbury. Another is being organised for autumn.
Watch our short video below to see who was at the April event.
