Category Archives: Carers
Cold, lonely winter may cost 25,000 old people their lives
“Small things and a friendly face make all the difference to a family carer.”
Older people in the West Country are becoming increasingly isolated as neighbours fail to take notice of their basic needs.
According to a new report from the charity Age UK, one in four people aged 65 or more in the South West are not getting any help, support or companionship from people on their doorstep.
“It is a sad fact of life,” said Tom Williams, chairman of a Pensioners and 50-Plus Action Group in the region. “Times have changed and this has been happening more and more over the years. People are busy with their own lives and they don’t pop into each others houses any more.
He added: “We all know individuals who have children who live abroad, in America and Australia, and the chances are they aren’t coming back. These people are all right when they are living as a couple, but when one dies the survivor tends to get very lonely. It’s a real problem, but it’s hard to know what to do.”
Mr Williams, who is a keen advocate of over-50s getting more involved in their community, said older people were sometimes guilty of apathy themselves.
“It goes both ways. Older people need to get out more and be more vocal as well.”
Poorest families hit hardest by income squeeze
Carers struggle to survive and keep loved ones warm
Sunday 18 November 2012
The 10 per cent of UK households with the lowest income – £8,000 or less – have seen the biggest rise in the rate of inflation over the past year when the impact of soaring university tuition fees is stripped out, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers.
Its research shows such households faced inflation of 2.49 per cent in the year to October, compared to just 2.1 per cent for the richest 10 per cent. This is because poorer families spend twice as much of their income on fuel, and four times as much on water, the accountant says.
Experiences of Dementia / Tommy Whitelaw
Tommy Whitelaw, from Glasgow has been a full-time carer for his mother who has vascular dementia for the last 5 years. Through this Tommy has became a campaigner raising awareness of the issues surrounding dementia. Tommy has produced a short film which provides an insight into the issues and challenges faced with those coping with Dementia and those caring for those with Dementia. You can view the film by clicking the link below (requires Flash player).
Tommy continues to speak to carers groups, as well as key decision-makers who have influence over the lives of people affected by dementia. He is still gathering experiences, to make sure they are shared with those who can make life better for carers.
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