Older People and
Social Isolation
A Resource Pack
er Be
r
tte
Old
3rd Edition
t
r Be
Foreword
At our Older Experts Group meeting an older person commented that,
“people miss out because they don’t really know”
It is incumbent on all of us who work with older people to make sure that they do know, and to take
action to address the exclusion, social isolation and loneliness many older people experience. We live in a
society which is getting older, ageing is the reality of all our lives. Feeling isolated and lonely, and often too
ignored or undervalued, is not a necessary part of this process.
It is therefore refreshing to see the range of ideas contained in this Resource Pack, which provides
information and supporting training materials for anyone wanting to tackle the complex issues involved in
addressing social isolation. It is packed full of useful advice about what support based on established good
practice already exists in Leeds.
The production of the Resource Pack was originally supported by LinkAge Plus, but its content reflects work
over a considerable period of time by a group of people who have built up a range of expertise and insight
into what works for older people.
We all deserve to have a life worth living and we can’t go far wrong if we use this information and
implement some of the suggestions described. In particular remembering that:
“When planning services for older people who are socially isolated,
perhaps the most important step is to ask people what they actually want.”
(Tackling Social Isolation p.1)
We were pleased and overwhelmed by the interest that has been shown in the first two editions of the
Social Isolation Resource Pack, therefore, we decided to print a third edition the pack, with amendments
suggested by front-line staff. We are thrilled that the pack is seen as useful, and hope that this Third Edition
is just as successful. We will continue to focus on social isolation, and have more work going on in order to
keep this issue a high priority.
Joy Marshall - Project Manager, Ageing Society, Leeds Adult Social Care
Acknowledgements
The Social Isolation Peer Support Group
Joy Marshall, Project Manager, Ageing Society, Leeds Adult Social Care
Leeds Older People’s Forum, Staff and Members
Councillor Peter Harrand - Joint Older People’s Champion
Dr. Mima Cattan - Leeds Metropolitan University
Bronwen Holden
Jenny Thornton - Older and Disabled People’s Strategic Partnership and Development Team, Mental Health
Amanda Douglas - Older and Disabled People’s Strategic Partnership and Development Team, Falls Prevention
Margaret Forth - Senior Rehabilitation Officer, Leeds City Council
Bridget Maguire - Carers Strategy Implementation Manager
Thanks to the Older People’s Strategic Partnership Team for funding the production of the Third Edition of
the Pack.
Caroline Starkey - Principle (Health and Wellbeing in Later Life), Adult Social Care, Leeds City Council
The case studies in this resource pack are fictional. Any resemblance to individuals, living or dead, is purely co-incidental.
This is the intellectual property of Leeds Older People’s Forum - any copies with agreement only.
Leeds Older People’s
Forum
Link Age Plus
The Leeds Older People’s Forum was established
in 1994, and currently has over 120 members from
older people’s voluntary sector organisations in
Leeds.
Link Age Plus was a Department of Work and
Pensions Pilot Programme, to explore new ways of
providing information and support to older people.
Leeds was one of the eight pilot sites nationally.
Our aims are:
The Leeds LinkAge Plus pilot aimed to:
• To provide information to older people’s
organisations about issues affecting the lives of
older people
• Build capacity of voluntary sector organisations
• To offer opportunities for networking with older
people’s groups and organisations
• To monitor plans, services and other
developments that affect older people
• To provide opportunities for older people to give
feedback to statutory organisations
• To ensure that voluntary organisations working
with older people are fully involved in shaping
services
• Support the development of up to 6 “Gateway”
organisations across the city enabling increased
access to services
• Increase contact with services and benefits by
10% amongst older people and carers
• Develop and support increased awareness
of, training and effectiveness of volunteer
opportunities
• Develop all of the above with the effective
inclusion of BME organisations and elders
For more information, visit our website at www.
opforum.org.uk or contact us:
Leeds Older People’s Forum
60 Upper Basinghall Street
Leeds LS1 5HR
0113 380 4911
[email protected]
There is a training course on tackling social isolation, run by Leeds Older People’s Forum. Please contact us for
more information (there may be a charge for this course).
Contents
01
What is social isolation?
02
What are the effects of social isolation?
03
What makes someone socially isolated?
04
Disadvantaged groups
05
How do people who are socially isolated behave?
06
How can you target people who are socially isolated?
07
What happens when people do not use services?
08
Coping strategies for workers
09
10
14
15
18
19
20
21
21
22
24
25
26
27
What is available in Leeds?
• Mental health
• Telecare and equipment
• Keeping healthy and active
• Lifelong learning
• Bereavement
• Befriending
• Transport
• Keeping House
• Benefits and debt management
• Black and Minority Ethnic elders
• Sensory impairment
• Older people in care homes
• Carers
29
Summary of useful organisations
31
Neighbourhood Network Schemes
35
Useful terms
36
Bibliography
What is social isolation?
“I’ve gone three years without talking to hardly anyone.”
Increased social isolation is frequently linked with
getting older. However, only about 10% of older
people describe themselves as socially isolated (Victor,
Scambler et al in Cattan 2002).
Yet social isolation is, by its nature, not something
that is easily measurable, or indeed, something that
many people feel comfortable disclosing. To some
older people, increased isolation may be accepted
as ‘part and parcel’ of the ageing process, and might
not be challenged. As Forbes explains, “what for one
person may be acceptable solitude may be for another
anguish” (Forbes 1996: 313).
An often quoted definition of social isolation
comes from Cattan. Social isolation is, “an objective
measurable state of having minimal contact with
other people, such as family, friends or the wider
community” (Cattan 2002:11). She considers that
whilst social isolation can be measured, the feelings of
loneliness are personal and individual. It is important
to bear in mind that for some people, it may not be
the number of contacts that is important, but the
nature of those contacts, including who they are, the
length of time spent, or the activity (Forbes 1996: 313).
For many, a cup of tea with a loved one is likely to
be more positive than a visit from a person reading
the gas meter. For others, living alone and seeing few
people may not be as devastating as we may assume,
and they may not consider themselves to be lonely.
(Cattan 2001: 4)
Research has shown that older people might not
necessarily refer to social isolation and loneliness
using these terms (Erskine 2006: 30). This research
in West Leeds suggests that many older people felt
that the need to “raise people’s spirits (thus implicitly
countering loneliness) was striking” (Erskine 2006:
30). It is therefore crucial to recognise that ‘jargon’ is
likely to be a barrier in understanding the very real
experiences of social isolation and loneliness.
Social Isolation and loneliness are complex issues, and
as such, have complex solutions. This resource pack
is intended to help you think about the various issues
that affect older people who may be socially isolated.
It is important to bear in mind that the feelings of
isolation and loneliness are very personal, and may
affect individuals in different ways. What is clear from
the Older Better strategy for Leeds (Healthy Leeds
2006: 21) is that older people want to be actively
involved in the services and developments that affect
their lives. When planning services for older people
who are socially isolated, perhaps the most important
step is to ask people what they actually want.
This pack is by no means an exhaustive guide and any
suggestions or ideas should only be considered with
the needs, hopes and aspirations of the individual at
the centre.
an objective measurable state
of having minimal contact with
other people, such as family,
friends or the wider community
| 01 Older People and Social Isolation
What are the effects of
social isolation?
Older People in Leeds
Leeds has a total population of 750,000. Of
these, nearly 143,000 (20%) are sixty or over
(Leeds Initiative Area Statistics, April 2004).
There are seven wards in Leeds in which older
people face particularly low levels of income:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
City and Hunslet
Gipton and Harehills
Hyde Park and Woodhouse
Chapel Allerton
Headingley
Burmantofts and Richmond Hill
Middleton Park
Most older people in Leeds live with at least
one other person, but inevitably this changes
as people age, and 59% of women in West
Yorkshire in their eighties live alone.
4,139 older people in Leeds (about 3% of the
total) live in residential or nursing homes.
Older people in Leeds: Visions for the Future:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Access to comfortable and secure homes
An adequate income
Safe neighbourhoods
Ability to get out and about
Friendships
Access to learning and leisure
Able to keep active and healthy
Access to good, relevant information
Involvement in planning and decision making
Freedom from age discrimination
Older Better: A Strategy to promote healthy
and active life for older people in Leeds 20062011 (Healthy Leeds 2006: 9)
“Once I was taunted by this group
of young lads about being a blind
old bat, and I pushed my stick in
one lad’s chest and told him one
day he would be in the same
position. Well they went quiet and
just left. But you know afterwards I
just had a big cry.” (Cattan 2002: 32)
It has been suggested that social isolation and
loneliness have a significant impact on the health and
well-being of older people (Office of the Deputy Prime
Minister 2006: 18). The effects can include:
• Increase in depression and associated mental health
difficulties
• Physical health implications
• Poor life expectancy
• Decrease in community involvement
• Feeling that life is not worth living
• Lack of confidence
• Lack of motivation
• Feelings of failure and despair
These physical and mental health implications are
significant, both for the individual and for the resources
within the community.
In 2005, 19% of men and 33% of women between the
ages of 64–74 lived alone. For the over 75s, this rose to
29% of men and 60% of women living alone.
(Age Concern 2007: Online)
Older People and Social Isolation 02 |
What makes someone socially isolated?
“I used to go out every day before I had my stroke. But since my stroke
I’ve lost confidence to go out alone. If there were more benches and
places to rest, I would feel more able to go out alone.” (Cattan 2002: 25)
There are a number of key factors that researchers
have suggested increase the chances of older people
experiencing social isolation and loneliness (Forbes
1996: 313).
•
•
•
•
These may include:
(Findlay and Cartwright 2002: Online)
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Living alone
Accessibility of transport (public and private)
Perception of level of crime/violence in the community
Not wanting to use available services
Literacy
Poverty/fear of future poverty
Poor health or physical disability
Continence
Loss of significant relationships, including
bereavement or divorce
Lack of family support
Lack of support from friends
Relocation to a new community/sheltered housing/
care home
Being a carer
| 03 Older People and Social Isolation
Lack of access to learning or meaningful activities
Lack of access to information about services
Language
Lack of knowledge or access to technology
Although these factors are not exhaustive, it is
significant to note that multiple causes are likely to
have a diverse impact on the experience of social
isolation and loneliness.
Research in West Leeds highlights that the two most
important factors influencing social isolation in this area
include access to transport, and access to information
about services (Erskine 2006: 30).
Yet it is important to remember that you do not
have to live alone to be lonely – you can experience
loneliness within a crowd. This is particularly significant
for older people entering a care home, or a sheltered
housing scheme, but can also affect carers, or people
living with their partners or families.
“I have got a wheelchair but still cannot get out
of the house unaided. There is a step outside my
door and I need a ramp but Social Services have
said I’m not eligible for one. Now it just feels like
solitary confinement.” (Cattan 2002: 25)
Disadvantaged groups at risk of social isolation
The Older Better Strategy produced for Leeds for
2006-2011 (Healthy Leeds 2006: 26) identifies groups
of people who may experience increased disadvantage.
The disadvantage that these groups experience may
make them more at risk of social exclusion.
The following excerpt is taken from the Older Better
Strategy (Healthy Leeds 2006: 26-30). For a full copy
and summary of the report, visit
www.leedsinitiative.org/health.
The Strategy contains a wealth of information about
older people in Leeds, including national policy and
statistical data.
Older women
There are slightly more women than men in Leeds
and women have a longer life expectancy. In surviving
men, older women tend to suffer worse health, lower
incomes and poor housing (often living alone). At the
oldest ages, when problems become more acute,
women overwhelmingly outnumber men.
Women from Pakistani, Bangladeshi and other Asian
groups in Leeds have particularly high rates of limiting
long term illness, health problems or disabilities.
Gender is a major determinant of health and health
care needs and the social implications of gender need
to receive attention.
Lesbian, gay and bi-sexual older people
Older lesbians, gay men and bisexuals are five times
less likely to access services for older people than
is the case in the general older population, because
they fear discrimination, homophobia, ignorance
and that they will have to hide their sexuality. Older
lesbians and gay men have particular issues. Many have
remained invisible because organisations have failed to
investigate their needs.
People with learning disabilities
There are 17,000 people with learning disabilities in
Leeds. Older people with learning disabilities need
the same kind of support as younger people, but they
often receive less help. Older people with Down’s
Syndrome are more likely to develop dementia. Many
older people with learning disabilities have very limited
social networks and few opportunities to use ordinary
leisure provision in the community.
Homeless Older People
Many older people who become homeless, previously
lived settled and stable lives. The popular view of
homelessness amongst older people, is that they have
been homeless for many years and lived an itinerant
lifestyle. Whilst there are people for whom this is
true, evidence indicates that for many older people,
homelessness comes as a result of life events, which
are likely to occur in later life. Older homeless people
will often find themselves defined as socially excluded
and there may be elements of their lifestyle that
conflicts with more traditional ways of living.
Older Better Strategy (Healthy Leeds 2006)
Other disadvantaged groups listed in ‘Older Better’
include:
• Older gypsies and travellers
• Older people from other black and minority ethnic groups
• Older people living in poverty
• Older carers
• Older prisoners
• Refugees and asylum seekers
• Older people in care homes
• Older people with mental health problems
• Older disabled people
Older People and Social Isolation 04 |
How do people behave when they are socially
isolated or lonely?
As social isolation or loneliness are difficult to measure,
due to the subjective nature of the feelings, it might
be important to identify behaviour or responses that
indicate social isolation when it has not been verbally
expressed.
However, isolation and loneliness is very individual,
so often there is no ‘set’ way to act, but some key
behaviour might be:
• Verbal outpouring and keenness to keep talking
• Prolonged holding of your hand or arm
• Body language – defeated demeanour, tightly
crossed arms or legs
• Withdrawal from social contact
• Crying, depression
(www.patient.co.uk)
Emma
Emma is 80 and lives alone in North Leeds. She
lives in the house that was her family home until
her children moved to London and her husband
passed away. She used to have a number of friends
in Leeds, but since her mobility declined and she is
able to get out of the house less and less, her social
circle decreased. She employs a cleaning lady once
a week and also someone to help with her garden
fortnightly. Recently, she has been thinking up many
different excuses to encourage the cleaning lady
to stay for longer – making her cups of tea even
criticising her work, asking her to clean areas over
again. She has also been telephoning her children,
and leading them to believe she is unwell, just so that
they will come and stay with her. She knows that her
behaviour is likely to annoy people around her, but
she just doesn’t know how to help herself feel less
lonely and depressed.
1.What are the key issues facing Emma?
2.What would you suggest would best meet her
needs?
“I’d do anything to see some
people, even cutting the
grass. At least people nod
and say hello.” (Cattan 2001: 4)
| 05 Older People and Social Isolation
How can you target people
who are socially isolated?
If you are planning to develop a new service, or want
to ensure that you include the most isolated older
people, the first step is to find people and ask them
what they want.
Yet, it can be difficult to reach out to older people
who are socially isolated. If you have a community
group or service, perhaps try the following ideas:
• The most important thing is to find out where
older people are! It could be the market, or the
hairdresser, or the working men’s club. This may
change depending on your locality.
• GP referrals – get in touch with your local GP
or District Nurse and let them know about your
service or ask them to refer individuals to you.
• Put a poster in the library or local community centre.
• Put up a posters in local shops or post offices.
• Put up posters, or hold information mornings at
local sheltered housing schemes, or local flats.
• Post flyers to your local housing association.
• Contact Faith Organisations to promote your service.
• Let other services know about your service, such
as voluntary sector groups, handyman services, or
police/fire – they can help to suggest your services
to individuals they meet.
• Linking up with energy providers to promote your
services. People who read meters are often in
contact with many housebound older people.
• Radio broadcasts.
• Having a stall in a supermarket or working with local
shops.
• Local market – handing out leaflets.
A 2005 review of interventions to prevent social
isolation and loneliness among older people
suggested that the most effective response was to
provide education and social group activities.
(Cattan, White, Bond and Learmouth 2005: 41)
William
William was 94 when his sister died a year ago. They
had lived together in the family home all their lives.
William feels the loss of his sister very keenly. His
nieces and nephews live too far away to give him
the companionship that he needs. Likewise, many of
his older friends have died or moved away. Also, the
chapel that he and his sister had attended all their
lives has recently closed.
Although, in general, William’s health is good, he
has very poor balance and difficulty in hearing. He
has fallen several times in the past year, fortunately
with no serious consequences, but is unable to
leave his house unaided. This is a severe deprivation
to someone who had previously been very active.
He had been a keen rambler, bird-watcher and
photographer and had travelled abroad when
foreign holidays were not commonplace. He had
also enjoyed concerts and the theatre and had
been a keen supporter of his union. His deafness
is a significant barrier to communication. It makes
ordinary conversation difficult and prevents him from
speaking to his family and friends on the telephone.
William is resilient and determined. He has two
ambitions: to live to a hundred and to stay in his
own home. However, his social isolation is making
him increasingly lonely and depressed. William has
a cleaner who visits, and has been involved with
a community group in the past, but his deafness
prevented him from talking to people and he felt
excluded. What William would like to do is pursue
his old interests – excursions in the Dales, concerts,
theatre etc – but he has no transport, no-one to take
him and he cannot hear.
1.What are the key issues William is facing?
2.Are there any alternative (but equally rewarding)
activities he could access?
‘Isolation to Inclusion’ is a website that provides
good practice examples and Regional Action Plans
targeting social isolation. www.i2i-project.net
Older People and Social Isolation 06 |
What happens when people don’t use services?
Why might people not use services?
What can you do?
•
•
•
• Make people aware of the different services that are
available to them.
• Support people to access the services for the first
time.
• Look into continence, transport or other practical
issues.
• Suggest that they contact a Carers Organisation for
support.
• Look into financial issues.
• Be sensitive to developing confidence.
• Try to help with practical things first, like
handypersons tasks, to build up a relationship
(Cattan 2002: 5).
• Think about using a telephone befriending scheme,
provided by some Neighbourhood Network Schemes.
• Think about the fact that a waiting list for services
might put people off.
• Think about the physical barriers to getting out and
contact an organisation like Care and Repair to
explore aids and adaptations.
• Think about asking another older person in your
organisation to support the new person when they
are attending activities.
• Reassure people that feeling lonely happens to
everyone at certain times, and that there are ways
to find support.
• Consider what the person likes to do – if they
like reading, there are book groups, or ‘At Home’
services provided by the library, where a volunteer
can come out to deliver books and talk about
them. If they like walking, there are walking groups.
There are a number of more individual activities that
people can access.
• Discuss with the person about a referral to a GP for
help with depression.
• Discuss psychological therapies, such as counselling
or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
•
•
•
•
•
•
Don’t want to be a burden or have ‘charity’
(Cattan 2002: 5).
Lacking confidence.
Worried that they won’t get on with people, or have
anything in common.
Mistrust of services provided.
Don’t like the services provided.
Worries about continence.
Caring responsibilities mean they might feel they
don’t have time.
Transport issues preventing them.
The stigma attached to loneliness – older people
may deny being lonely, or think that it is a natural
part of getting older that they can do nothing about.
| 07 Older People and Social Isolation
“Each time I suggested something to John, he just refused. I know he is
really lonely, but he just refuses to accept help. Now, when I leave his
house, I feel really deflated, like I’m no good at my job, because I can
see his situation getting worse and worse, and there doesn’t seem to be
anything I can do about it.” (Worker)
Coping strategies for workers
Although it is often overlooked, working with people
who are socially isolated can be challenging and
emotional for workers.
It is sometimes difficult to accept that you cannot
always make everything better for people and
sometimes services are not available or suitable to
meet a persons needs. This can cause stress and it
is important to be able to identify the symptoms, in
order to tackle them before they get worse.
Some symptoms of stress
(excerpt from www.mind.org.uk)
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
constant tiredness
feeling sick or dizzy
headaches
sleeping problems
lack of appetite or craving for food
high blood pressure
chest pains
feeling aggressive or irritable
dreading the future or failure
fearing you are ill
taking no interest in life
difficulty making decisions
problems concentrating
Some tips to tackle stress
(excerpt from www.mind.org.uk)
• Make the connection. Could the fact that you’re
feeling under-the-weather be a response to too
much pressure?
• Take a regular break.
• Learn to relax. Follow a simple routine to relax your
muscles and slow your breathing.
• Get better organised. Make a list of jobs; tackle one
task at a time; alternate dull jobs with interesting ones.
• Sort out your worries. Divide them into those that
you can do something about (either now or soon)
and those that you can’t. There’s no point worrying
about things you can’t change.
• Improve your lifestyle. Find time to eat properly, get
plenty of exercise and enough sleep.
• Confide in someone. Don’t keep your emotions
bottled up.
There are often many other workers experiencing
the same frustrations and challenges, and you are not
alone. It is important to be able to talk to someone
– a work colleague or your manager – if you are
experiencing difficulties coping at work.
In response to this, we have established a Peer Support
Group, for front-line workers from any organisation,
to get together in a relaxed and non-judgemental
environment and share ideas and experiences.
This group has been supported by the Link Age Plus
Programme, and meets every two months. For more
information, please contact:
Leeds Older People’s Forum
0113 380 4911
[email protected]
www.opforum.org.uk
Older People and Social Isolation 08 |
What is available for
people in Leeds?
Leeds is a busy city, with many services and
organisations operating within it. So, it can be difficult
to find out what services are available.
In the following section, we have compiled information
on some of the key issues relating to older people who
are socially isolated and some contact organisations
which can provide either more information, or services.
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but is intended
to encourage you to think about the variety of issues
that affect social inclusion, and indicate possible
responses. Services might change, and it is important
for workers to have an awareness of the different
organisations operating in Leeds.
Due to the often complex nature of social isolation,
responding in an effective way requires a holistic and
multi-faceted approach. It is important when working
with a person who might be socially isolated, that all
their needs are considered.
When you hold a busy case-load, finding out
information about services in Leeds can be a challenge.
However, finding out information has become easier
since 2008, with the launch of ‘Infostore’.
| 09 Older People and Social Isolation
Older People and Information
The Link Age and POPPS programmes developed a
web-based ‘information store for older people’ where
all information about services in Leeds are held.
Anyone can access this information on the internet, and
it can send you updates and newsletters.
For more information, go to the Information Store
website: www.olderpeopleleeds.info
Mental health
The experience of social isolation and loneliness can
be caused, or exacerbated by depression, dementia
or other mental health issues. Promoting knowledge,
information and positive mental health is critical when
tackling social isolation.
a) Depression
i) What is depression?
Depression is common in older age, and affects about
one in eight older people who live at home and about
40% of those in care homes (Help the Aged 2003: 1).
However, “it is a mistake to argue that depression is an
inevitable part of ageing. Depression is never normal”
(www.bbc.co.uk/health/conditions/depressionelderly1.
shtml). Depression is often overlooked and if it is
undiagnosed and untreated, it can become more
serious (Help the Aged 2003: 1). Older people may be
particularly susceptible to depression following key life
changes, such as retirement, bereavement, significant
illness or loss of home and independence. (www.bbc.
co.uk/health/conditions/depressionelderly1.shtml)
ii) What are the symptoms of depression?
•
•
•
•
Feeling very low or hopeless
Loss of appetite
Difficulty sleeping, and waking early
Feeling suicidal
In older people, there are often physical symptoms
also, which could include headaches, general weakness,
pain and shortness of breath (www.bbc.co.uk/health/
conditions/depressionelderly1.shtml). There are also
illnesses that can exacerbate or cause depression,
such as thyroid and heart problems, vitamin B12 or
folic acid deficiency or cancer. Certain drugs may also
cause depression, including beta-blockers or bloodpressure drugs. (www.bbc.co.uk/health/conditions/
depressionelderly1.shtml)
iii) What are the treatments for depression?
• Psychological therapies (talking therapies) including
counselling, CBT, bereavement counselling,
psychotherapy.
• Drug treatment (anti-depressant drugs).
• Alternative therapies (such as St. John’s Wort, although
this can interfere with other drug treatments, and is
self-prescribed for mild-to-moderate depression).
• Dealing with social factors, such as isolation or
loneliness.
iv) How do you work with someone with depression?
• The most important think is to take time to listen
and understand how someone is feeling.
• Take things at a pace that the person can cope with,
their concentration and motivation may be low.
• Encourage them to seek help from their family
doctor who will be able to rule out any physical
causes for their low mood.
• And if appropriate will be able to put them in touch
with talking therapy services in a local surgery; or
will be able to offer treatment themselves or refer
on to a specialist team.
• If the person talks about any ideas of self harm/not
feeling that life is worth living take this very seriously;
as older people are most likely to complete a
successful attempt at suicide.
• Make sure the persons family doctor is aware of this
and that the person has an urgent appointment as
soon as possible.
Contacts
MIND
0113 230 7608 www.leedsmind.org.uk
Samaritans
0113 245 6789
Volition
(has details of all mental health voluntary organisations)
0113 274 9585 www.volition.org.uk
Counselling: Leeds Crisis Centre offers confidential,
short term counselling and support for individuals
who have experienced a crisis within the last 3
months. There is also a specialist deaf counselling
service. It is free of charge.
0113 275 5898
Older People and Social Isolation 10 |
b) Dementia
i) What is dementia?
The Alzheimer’s Society defines dementia as a loss of
brain function that is most often progressive, which
means the brain becomes more damaged over time
(www.alzheimers.org.uk).
Dementia is likely to affect:
•
•
•
•
Memory
Communication and speech
Reasoning
Mood
There is not one single cause for dementia, although
there are certain factors that could increase the risk of
developing the disease. These include genetics, lifestyle
(such as drinking or smoking or poor diet) or other
medical conditions, such as high blood pressure (www.
alzheimers.org.uk).
Age is a significant factor that increases the risk of
developing dementia. 6 in 100 people over 65 will
develop it. However, there are also thought to be
17,000 people under the age of 65 with dementia
(Department of Health 2000: 7)
ii) What are the symptoms?
There are various types of dementia which have
different symptoms, including Alzheimer’s Disease,
vascular dementia, Pick’s Disease or Lewy Body
dementia – please visit www.alzheimers.org.uk for
more detailed information.
The main symptom of dementia is that the person
forgets things they have just done, although often their
longer-term memory remains more clear. Some other
symptoms might include:
•
•
•
•
•
Changes to personality
Difficulty completing tasks
Confused in familiar surroundings
Confused about the date and time
Inappropriate behaviour (such as going out in nightclothes)
• See or hear things that are not there
• Become angry, upset or irritated very easily
(Department of Health 2000: 11)
However, it is important to note that the experience
of dementia is individual. These symptoms will not
affect every person, and in some cases, symptoms
migh indicate other problems such as infections.
iii) What is the treatment?
Most types of dementia cannot be cured (www.
alzheimers.org.uk). However, there are certain
symptoms that can be treated, but it is important to get
a diagnosis, to be more certain about the condition.
The GP is the first person to contact, who might refer
the person to a specialist. They might undertake memory
tests, brain scans, or other physical examinations.
Support (including activity), talking therapies and drug
treatment can alleviate some of the symptoms of
dementia.
| 11 Older People and Social Isolation
iv) How do you work with someone with dementia?
Planning activities for a person with dementia:
If you are supporting a person with dementia, you might:
The Alzheimer’s Society suggests the following useful tips:
• Help them to write down their worries or questions
– this could be used when seeing a specialist or GP.
• Record what the GP/Specialist says in the
consultation with the person.
• Give the person plenty of encouragement. Let them
do things at their own pace and in their own way
(www.alzheimers.org.uk).
• Break activities down into small tasks to encourage
the person to continue doing things that they had
previously done (www.alzheimers.org.uk)
• Encourage a balanced diet, or look into support
services.
• Try to do things with, rather than for the person and
try to be patient.
• Take time out if you feel annoyed or frustrated – try
to make sure the person feels relaxed.
• Make sure the person has plenty to do!
• Use a memory aid – such as putting labels on
cupboards, a notice-board (with photos and
reminders on) or a large calendar.
• Keep up social life for as long as possible.
• Try to encourage a regular routine – unfamiliarity
might be confusing.
• Try to encourage the person to keep up with
activities they enjoy
• Break the activity into small tasks
• Use activities with one step (such as dusting)
• In the later stages, try stimulating the senses, such as
a hand massage
• Keep a sense of humour!
• Encourage and remind
Communicating with a person with dementia:
The Alzheimer’s Society suggests the following useful tips:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Listen carefully
Get the persons attention before you speak
Notice body-language
Speak clearly
Use physical contact to reassure
Respect the person
(www.alzheimers.org.uk)
Contacts
Alzheimer’s Society 0113 231 1727
Offer a wide variety of services in Leeds for people
with Alzheimer’s Disease, including emotional and
practical support to people with dementia and carers.
Community Links Home Support Service 0113 200 9180
Offer intensive home support to older people in the
LS7, 8 and 9 area of Leeds who have mental health
difficulties.
Volition 0113 274 9585
Supports voluntary sector mental health organisations
in Leeds and can provide information/contact details
about available services.
Together: Working for Well-being 0113 244 6992
Provides advocacy, assertive outreach and intensive
support for people with mental health problems
Information for Mental Health
Online Leeds Mental Health Directory
www.mentalhealthleeds.info
Leeds Memory Service
Aims to help people who are experiencing memory
difficulties, provides assessment, treatment and
support. Referral to this service is through a GP.
Older People and Social Isolation 12 |
Dementia Cafés
These cafés are for people with dementia and their carers. Contact your local café for more details.
Nationally, there is Dementia Café online: www.dementiacafe.com
Leeds dementia café/involvement group network
Area
Where
When
Leeds
North East area
“De Caf”
Second Tuesday of each month
(transport costs can
Terry Yorath House, 18 Devonshire 2.00–4.00pm
be reinbursed)
Close, Roundhay, LS8
0113 242 7707
“Forgetfulness Club”
Austin Burke Community Centre
196 Chapeltown Road, LS7
2nd Friday of each month
11.00am–1.00pm
0113 237 4332
“Sunshine Café”
Collingham Village Hall
Last Wednesday of each month
2.00–4.00pm
0113 231 1727 or 01937 588 994
Leeds
North West area
Forget-me-not Café
Yeadon Cricket Club
(behind White Swan)
1st Wednesday of each month
1.30–3.30pm
01943 472 004
Open Door Café
New Headingley Club
St Michael’s Road, LS6
Last Monday of each month
2.00–4.00pm
0113 231 1727 or 0113 295 5417
Leeds West area
Memory Lane Group
1st Thursday of each month
Armley Helping Hands
1.30–3.30pm
St Bartholomew Centre
0113 305 5490 or 0113 279 9292
Strawberry Lane, LS12 1SF
Leeds East area
“DeCaf in East”
St Agnes Church Hall
LS9 1st Monday of each month
2.00–3.30pm
0113 231 1727
“DeCaf East”
Garforth net
62c Main Street, Garforth
3rd Thursday of each month
2.00–4.00pm
0113 287 4784
Leeds South area
Pot-O’Tea
Potterdale Day Centre
192 Dewsbury Road, LS11 6ER
1st Wednesday of each month
2.00pm–4.00pm
0113 231 1727 or 0113 270 8673
To be confirmed
Sunder Mann (for people with dementia from South Asian Communities and their carers)
1st Tuesday of each month
Contact Touchstone
0113 248 4880
| 13 Older People and Social Isolation
Telecare and equipment
There are a number of new technological developments
(called ‘telecare’) that exist to support people to live
independently in the community, many of which could
improve the lives of people who are socially isolated,
particularly for carers of people with dementia.
Some of these include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Falls and movement detectors
Medicine dispensers
Smoke alarms
Gas detectors
Temperature sensors
Property exit sensors
In order to get Telecare, you must have an assessment
by a social worker or another professional (such as
an Occupational Therapist) and there may be a cost
for telecare services. For more information, including
a leaflet of telecare products, contact: 0113 222 4401
(Social Services Contact Centre).
There are also various pieces of equipment or aids/
adaptations that can be used in the home, including:
•
•
•
•
•
•
For more information about equipment services, contact:
Social Services Contact Centre
0113 222 4401
William Merritt Disabled Living Centre and Mobility
Service
0113 305 5332
Charitable organisation that provides independent
advice on equipment, which can be tried out before it
is purchased.
DIAL (Disability Information and Advice Line)
0113 214 3630
Telephone advice and information for disabled people,
carers, professionals in Leeds. Assistance with claiming
benefits and representation. Library facilities available.
Upbeat
www.upbeatcic.co.uk
A social enterprise selling gadgets and products for
independent living. For more information contact:
0113 236 1644
Physability Service, Leeds Federated Housing
Association
0113 386 1000
Commodes
Raised toilet seats
Walking frames and crutches
Talking clocks
Big button telephones
Handrails
Safety
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service provide a
FREE Home Fire Safety check - 0800 587 4536.
West Yorkshire Police provide a wide range of
advice about crime prevention:
www.westyorkshirepolice.uk
Older People and Social Isolation 14 |
Maintaining a healthy and active life
Promoting a healthy and active life amongst the older
people you work with is likely to be an important
element of your work. The following section gives
you some key health promotion messages and
contact details for organisations to signpost to.
Why keep active and healthy?
Keeping active and involved in the local community
has a number of positive health benefits, including
reducing social isolation and delaying or preventing
disease or disability (Healthy Leeds 2006: 16).
Promoting health is important when working with
people who are socially isolated, for a number of
reasons:
• Better quality of life and longevity.
• Preventing depression through identification and
treatment.
• Preventing falls.
• Feeling involved and supported by the local
community.
• A holistic (whole person) approach to promoting
inclusion, which is less stigmatised.
If a person feels well and active, they are more likely
to feel positive, get involved, seek social opportunities
and have a more healthy and included life.
There are a number of health promotion and safety
initiatives that might help you when working with
older people who are socially isolated:
a) Eating healthily
b)Physical exercise
c) Preventing falls
d)Continence
Eating healthily
•
•
•
•
Eat some vegetables and fruit every day.
Eat plenty of bread, potato, pasta, rice or chapattis.
Eat fewer fried foods/foods with a lot of fat in them.
Increase the amount of exercise you take – good
for your heart and your waistline!
• Eat a variety of foods during the day.
(South Leeds PCT 1996)
For some people who are housebound, it might be
necessary to have meals delivered to their home,
either fresh or frozen:
• Meals on Wheels: 0113 247 8577 (Monday to
Friday 8.30am to 3.00pm) only available through
social services assessment
• Leeds Black Elders Association: 0113 237 4332
• Leeds Jewish Care Services, Kosher meals service:
0113 268 4211
• Private meal providers: See Keeping House list for
details, delivery areas and prices. You can download
the list from the Keeping House website:
www.keepinghouse.org.uk
• Age Concern Leeds: 0113 245 8579
There are also a number of organisations who provide
support with shopping – please contact Keeping House
for a full list of services in Leeds - 0113 222 4401.
Many of the Healthy Living Centres provide advice and
support to learn about healthier diets. Healthy Living
Centres exist to promote healthy living activities for
the health and well-being of disadvantaged communities.
Active 4 Life (Inner North West Leeds)
0113 278 3779
Feel Good Factor (Chapeltown and Harehills)
0113 350 4200
Hamara Healthy Living Centre (South Leeds)
0113 277 3330
Zest for Life (Inner East Leeds)
0113 242 5096
West Leeds Healthy Living Network
0113 295 1043
| 15 Older People and Social Isolation
• Gardening
• Walking
• Carryingshopping
• Climbingstepsor
the stairs
k Scheme
vities. To
eeds City
• Standingupandsitting
down several times
“
13 222 4410
tworks:
I’ve had another
handrailputonthe
A little activity each day
goes a long way
er Be
r
tte
Old
k
• Sweepingthefloor
• Vacuuming
n also swim
cil pool,
for details of
website
ir carers,
ssionals and
services
Examples of everyday
physical activity
r Health ref: 1643/OPMT
Everyday activity will
helpyou:
stairs, and make
•Movearoundmoreeasily
sureIgoupand
•Keepwellandstrong
down several times
• Domoreforyourself
aday.IfIjustsitin
• Keepintouchwithfamily
“
es have
0. For more
re near you
centres or
Keep Active
Keep Well
the chair, my knees
seizeup!
and friends
•Feelmorerelaxed
14/7/09 16:23:06
Local places for
keeping active:
Leeds City Council leisure centres have
many activities for people over 50. For more
details and to find a leisure centre near you
visit www.leeds.gov.uk/leisurecentres or
call 0113 395 2373.
1643 Keep Active Keep Well2.indd 3-4
Keep Active
Keep
Well
Take more physical exercise
If you’re aged 60 or over you can also swim
for free at any Leeds City Council pool,
please contact your local centre for details of
Swim4free sessions.
Voluntary groups and Neighbourhood Network
Schemes often provide activities, including dancing,
walking, gentle exercise (see list of schemes at the
back of this pack or visit www.leeds.gov.uk)
Your local Neighbourhood Network Scheme
for Older People runs many activities. To
find your local scheme contact Leeds City
Council Customer Services:
Feel Good Factor
0113 350 4200
Information about walks around Leeds.
Tel: 0113 222 4401 Minicom: 0113 222 4410
Website for Neighbourhoods Networks:
www.leedsnns.org.uk
Extend
(movement to music classes: www.extend.org.uk)
For the list of Extend classes in Leeds, see Infostore
www.olderpeopleleeds.info
A little activity each day
goes a long way
er Be
r
tte
Old
The InfoStore is an information website
for people aged 50 or over, their carers,
relatives and friends, and professionals and
contains details of hundreds of services
and organisations:
www.olderpeopleleeds.org.uk
14/7/09 16:23:08
© NHS Leeds (Leeds Primary Care Trust) July 09 • Design for Health ref: 1643/OPMT
Older People and Social Isolation 16 |
Preventing Falls
(taken from www.helptheaged.org.uk)
• Falls are the most frequent type of accident in the over
65s. The effects of even a minor fall can be disastrous
for an older person’s physical and mental health.
• Injury caused by falling is a leading cause of death
among older people over 75, and the risk of falling is
three times as likely for older people living in a care
home, than for older people living in the community.
• About 30% of older people in the community will
fall in a year.
Fear of falling is a major factor in increasing social
isolation amongst older people and will feature in the
decision whether or not to leave the house.
If an individual is worried about falling and has already
suffered a fall and/or has problems with their balance
or mobility, they should inform their GP who can
arrange a specialist falls assessment.
However, there are a number of preventative
measures that can be taken to minimise the risk of a
fall, and re-build confidence:
• Assess the home – are there loose carpets,
obstacles, steep stairs? Perhaps some aids and
adaptations could be fitting (e.g hand-rails) to make
the home safer.
• Make sure there is adequate lighting at night, if you
get out of bed.
• Consider foot-wear – are the slippers that are worn
around the house well fitted and appropriate?
• Consider getting a Care Ring pendant alarm or
other telecare equipment – this could be a lifeline
in an emergency.
• When planning a route outside, consider whether
there are benches or places to rest on the journey.
• Consider exercise – Help the Aged research has
found that many older people are not aware that
balance and strengthening exercises could prevent
falls (Help the Aged 2007 (b): 1).
• Review medication with a GP – perhaps this is
adding to dizziness or losing balance?
Not all falls can be prevented, but falling shouldn’t be
seen as an inevitable part of getting older. Risk factors
that contribute to falls rarely exist in isolation.
Care and Repair: 0113 240 6009
(support, advice and modifications to the home,
including ‘Housing Options’ service, helping people
look at the appropriateness of accommodation)
Telecare: 0113 222 4401
Care Ring: 0113 224 3485
Public Health Resource Centre: NHS library that all
professionals can become a member of. They stock
a number of health and well-being related materials,
and they have posters and training equipment for
hire. www.leeds.nhs.uk/phrc Tel: 0113 295 3081
| 17 Older People and Social Isolation
A leaflet entitled, ‘Stand Tall, Avoid a Fall’ is available.
Both Leeds City Council or Leeds Older People’s
Forum hold copies.
Continence
“It’s just that this problem… it isn’t a thing you talk
about, is it? I’m a bit… I’m embarrassed, that’s what…
you see. I get embarrassed if I get to talk to people
about it… because I think it’s, well, it’s not a very
nice thing to talk about, is it?”
“Incontinence (the accidental or involuntary leakage
of urine or faeces) is a major factor increasing social
isolation. Although incontinence is not an inevitable
part of ageing, the condition is more common in
older age and it is estimated that 6 million people are
affected by it” (Help the Aged 2007 (a): 2).
Some people will not go out, or attend social activities
because they are worried about incontinence, or
needing to use the toilet where there might be no
facilities available. Continence is still a taboo subject,
with many people too embarrassed to discuss any
problems, which isolates people further.
There are several responses:
• Suggest a visit from the District Nurse or
continence advisory service, to look at some of the
problems and try to provide treatments or solutions.
• When planning a trip, make sure that you know
where any toilet facilities are, and make this
information available.
• Suggest using the Care and Repair Delivery service
for continence pads – a discreet delivery service
available throughout Leeds at a reasonable cost.
• Look into bathing services. You could try local
leisure centres or day centres.
Continence Advisory Service
0113 305 5138 (St. Mary’s Hospital, LS12)
Confidential advice and support on all aspects of
continence care and management, including laundry
support.
Care and Repair continence delivery service
0113 200 9160
Delivers prescribed continence products, paediatric
supplies, children’s nappies from your clinic or any
other medical or mobility supplies. Confidential,
reliable and a reasonable charge.
Moorcare: Bathing Service (NE Leeds)
0113 203 4914
Have a portable bath lift (chargeable service).
List of local public toilets
Contact your nearest One Stop Centre (see list at the
back of this pack).
Lifelong learning
In our Leeds Older People’s Forum 2007 report, over
94% of survey participants (all over 55) felt that getting
involved in a lifelong learning activity was beneficial to
their physical and mental health and made them feel
less lonely. Learning can keep your brain and body
active, get you involved in the local community, inspire
you, challenge you and alleviate social isolation.
However, there were significant barriers to learning
that older people felt, including:
Leeds Met University: 0113 812 0000
• Classes too expensive
• No classes in their local area
• No transport to classes or groups
Yorkshire Dance: 0113 243 9867
Although learning can promote social inclusion in a
holistic way, it is vital that older people are given the
support to access classes and groups that interest
them, and this should be taken into consideration
when exploring learning opportunities.
Many organisations also provide English classes for
people whose first language is not English. Improving
English might be one way of increasing social inclusion.
There are a number of organisations in Leeds which
promote lifelong learning for older people. They cater
for most interests, including art, literature, languages,
computing. Although a day centre might be the
first place you might suggest for someone who was
isolated, perhaps you could look at classes in their
local area as well? You may also want to explore the
possibility of getting Direct Payments (see Glossary).
Learning is not something that stops when you reach
65. Getting involved in a learning class or group
can promote social inclusion in a way that is nonstigmatised and appropriate to many people. Learning
to use the e-mail can help keep people in touch with
family abroad, whilst learning a language may be a
challenge that keeps you interested and positive about
life, which has associated health benefits.
Heydays: 0113 213 7296
(West Yorkshire Playhouse project for the over 55s)
Swarthmore: 0113 243 2210
Workers Educational Association: 0113 245 3304
Park Lane: 0113 216 2182
(Individual Student Support Team)
Thomas Danby: 0113 249 4912
Northern College: 01226 776 000
University of the Third Age: 0113 268 7808
Local libraries also provide classes and book groups
– contact Enquiry Express at the Library for more
information 0113 247 6016. There are also several
mobile libraries that may come to your area – contact
the mobile library team for details of the nearest
mobile stop: 0113 395 2323.
The Library ‘At Home’ Service
If you are housebound, or unable to get to your local
library, you can contact the ‘At Home’ Service. This
service is supported by volunteers, who will bring
books to the home of an older person, and help them
to choose new books.
If you are housebound, or cannot get to your local
library, the ‘At Home Service’ can deliver books to you
– contact 0113 395 2324 for more information.
The Leeds Older People’s Forum produced a report
about lifelong learning in Leeds. For a copy of the
report, or for more information, visit
www.opforum.org.uk – and click on ‘news and issues’
The Association of Blind Asians have a selection of
Bengali Language books from Calcutta to borrow - for
more details, contact 0113 214 4540.
Age Concern: 0113 245 8579
Joseph Priestley College: 0113 307 6111
Leeds University: 0113 243 1751
Older People and Social Isolation 18 |
Bereavement
Bereavement can be a factor that increases social
isolation. As we get older, when family or friends die,
our social circle might decrease. Grief might affect our
inclination to leave the house or to make new friends
or to get involved in social activities (Hawton and
Simkin 2006: 13).
The death of a loved one might come as an immense
shock and might produce physical symptoms and it
might make you not want to be surrounded by people
having fun or living their lives. It might be difficult to
contemplate the world still turning when a loved one
has died (Hawton and Simkin 2006: 13).
Grief counsellors suggest that there are certain
symptoms that bereavement might produce, including:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Shock
Numbness
Disbelief
Searching (calling the persons name, talking to their
photo, dreaming of them)
Anguish and pining
Physical and emotional stress
Anger
Sadness
Guilt
Fear
Relief
Despair
(Hawton and Simkin 2006: 13)
All these feelings might compound social isolation and
might lead to depression or anxiety.
| 19 Older People and Social Isolation
It is important to be sensitive to people who are going
through the grief process. Some ideas for supporting
people might include:
• Encourage them to set aside time to grieve, to cry
and remember the dead person.
• Keep a journal to record thoughts and feelings.
• Encourage the person to get enough rest and keep
well. Exercise might help you to sleep better.
• Acknowledge that birthdays or anniversaries might
be difficult, and help the person make plans for
those dates.
• Acknowledge that after the funeral arrangements
have been made, the person might hit a low spot
and might need increased support at this time.
• If grief feelings do not subside, it might be important
to encourage the person to see their GP, particularly
if they have ongoing sleep disturbance, loss of
energy or suicidal thoughts.
(from Hawton and Simkin 2006).
There are a number of organisations in Leeds which
provide support:
Bereavement Forum
0113 225 3975 www.lbforum.org.uk
(has a directory of bereavement services in Leeds)
Cruse Bereavement Care: 0113 243 4150
Befriending projects
What are they?
Volunteering
A number of voluntary sector organisations in Leeds
offer ‘befriending’ schemes. These are usually a
volunteer who will visit someone in their own home to
chat and ‘befriend’, for an hour or so per week. These
services are particularly recommended for people who
are housebound, or who do not like, or find it difficult
to participate in, group activities.
Volunteering can be of significant importance to someone
who experiences social isolation, particularly after
retirement (Joseph Rowntree Foundation 2005: Online)
There are other types of ‘befriending’ services also,
including telephone befriending services (where a
person is telephoned by a volunteer for a chat, either
weekly or monthly).
In the main, these services are for people living in the
local community, often alone. Some organisations visit
people in care homes (although this is not that common
at present) – for more information about befriending
services in your area, contact your local Neighbourhood
Network Scheme or City-wide voluntary organisation
(see summary of useful organisations).
Some faith organisations may also provide groups and
befriending services. For a list of BME organisations
(including faith) please see www.opforum.org.uk (under
BME Focus Group pages) or see ‘Summary of useful
organisations’ for details of Leeds Church Insititute and
Active Faith Communities.
Contact the Elderly
www.contact-the-elderly.org.uk/
Contact the Elderly organises gatherings for frail, elderly
people who live alone. One Sunday afternoon a month,
volunteer drivers take elderly people on regular visits
to hosts’ homes. Groups of between ten and sixteen
people visit a different home every month and spend
a few hours in the company of friends, old and new.
For more information about the nearest scheme to
Leeds: 0153 563 3592
Luncheon Clubs
There are a number of luncheon clubs in Leeds.
Contact your local neighbourhood network scheme
or Leeds City Council or see
www.olderpeopleleeds.info
The benefits of volunteering are:
•
•
•
•
opportunities to meet people
keeping active
putting something back into the community
a challenge
Many of the voluntary sector organisations in Leeds
are supported by older volunteers, and often these
volunteers have been service users in the past.
Suggesting volunteering to someone who is isolated
might be a means of assisting them to get involved in
their local community and promoting positive inclusion.
Volunteer Bureau (Voluntary Action Leeds)
0113 297 7931
Leeds Neighbourhood Network Schemes
(see back of the pack for details)
WRVS: 0845 601 0071
If you work in an organisation which needs volunteers
contact:
Volunteer Bureau (Voluntary Action Leeds)
0113 297 7931
Leeds Met Calm – University Student Volunteering
0113 209 8415
Leeds University Student Volunteering
0113 343 1062
Leeds Vinvolved – Learning Partnerships
0113 380 6662
Some suggestions for attracting volunteers:
• Advertise widely, including at sheltered housing
schemes, or at GP surgeries.
• Try to get the newspaper to run a story about your
organisation inviting potential volunteers to get in touch.
• Contact businesses in your local area to see
whether they have staff who would be interested in
volunteering or helping at a specific event.
• Be aware of what tasks you are asking volunteers
to do: find out what the skills of your volunteers
are, and work with them to find an activity they will
enjoy and they are more likely to return.
Older People and Social Isolation 20 |
Keeping House
Transport
To many older people in Leeds, being able to access
appropriate transport is a key factor in minimising
social isolation. If only minimal public transport is
available, getting out and about and maintaining
social networks is impractical and costly. To many
older people, transport is not just about getting
somewhere, but also important for sociability and
connection to the community, through the journey.
Although some older people do not feel that the
current provision of transport meets their needs
(Transport and Older People Conference June 2007),
it is important to provide adequate information
about what is available:
Metro: 0113 245 7676
Older and disabled people can now travel free of
charge around England. Older people must apply for
a pass – contact Metro for more details
Leeds City Council Contact Centre can also deal
with concessionary travel enquiries: 0113 222 4401
Access Bus: 0113 348 1900
Accessible door-to-door transport for anyone unable
to use public transport
Windmill Community Transport: 07904 556 857
Have an accessible coach to hire out to community
groups
FreeCity Bus: 0113 245 7676
Runs every few minutes with stops around the city
centre
Leeds Alternative Travel: 0113 245 4666
Have mini-buses to loan community groups
Shopmobility:
Loan powered scooters, manual wheelchairs and
electric wheelchairs free of charge, to help people
who have limited mobility to go shopping. Please ring
the day before your visit to check availability:
Leeds City Centre: 0113 246 0125
White Rose Centre: 0113 277 8858
| 21 Older People and Social Isolation
Maintaining a clean home and garden is a key
element of healthy ageing. Seeing your home or
garden deteriorate is more likely to make you feel
depressed and not want to maintain social networks,
particularly inviting people to your house. An unclean
house might also be a risk to physical health, to
falling, or become a fire hazard.
In 2005, Leeds City Council Adult Social Care
launched the Keeping House Programme. Its aim is
to create new ways of supporting the development
of social enterprises to provide domestic services for
older and disabled people.
A social enterprise charges for services, but puts
any profit back into the business for the benefit of
the community and those using the service. (www.
keepinghouse.org.uk)
Keeping House have compiled a list of many of the
domestic service providers in Leeds (private and
social enterprises) according to geographical area.
This list is regularly updated. The services which
are currently available provide cleaning, gardening,
shopping and other domestic tasks.
For more information about Keeping House and to
get a copy of the list of domestic service providers,
contact: 0113 222 4401. You can visit the Keeping
House website to download the list of service
providers.
www.keepinghouse.org.uk
Handy-Person services
See Keeping House (above)
Care and Repair: 0113 240 6009
British Legion Poppy Calls: 0113 256 4477
(for those in contact with the Armed Forces)
Benefits and debt management
Poverty is one of the most significant factors leading
to social exclusion and isolation. Leeds has been
described as a ‘two-speed’ city and many pensioners
find themselves in the poorest group. A recent Help
the Aged report identified Hunslet in South Leeds as
the 9th worst ward for pensioner poverty in England
and Wales, with more than 84% of those over 75 living
on income related benefits. Leeds as a whole has 41%
of this age group falling into this category. One in five
older people are living in poverty (Age Concern, 2006).
‘Older Better: A Strategy to Promote a healthy and
active life for older people in Leeds 2006-2011’
(Healthy Leeds 2006).
It is increasingly important, as we get older, to know
where our money goes (Help the Aged 2006: 4).
There can be many demands on money and this is
often combined with a lower income. If we are hoping
to encourage older people to take a more active and
positive role in their community and be less socially
isolated, we must also be aware of the financial
implications and what is available to help.
There are a number of benefits that older people may
be eligible for:
• Attendance Allowance: For people aged 65 and
over who have physical or mental health needs.
• Council Tax Benefit: Help towards paying your
council tax, whether you rent or own your home, if
you are on a low income.
• Pension Credit: Income-related benefit for people
aged 60 and over.
• Housing Benefit: Help paying your rent if you are on
a low income.
• Winter Fuel Payments: Lump-sum payments paid
each winter to people aged 60 and over.
Older People may also be entitled to access:
• Free or reduced cost NHS dental treatment, glasses
and hospital fares.
• Budgeting Loan: To help meet large expenses which
you have difficulty budgeting for, or if you or your
partner are getting pension credit.
• Crisis Loan: Is available to anyone who needs help
to meet their expenses in an emergency, whether
or not they are getting Pension Credit.
• Community Care Grant: Non-repayable grant
to help people lead independent lives in the
community.
• AFTAID: Vital Help for Elderly People in Financial
Need (0870 803 1950) Grants and financial support
to pensioners on a low income.
Older People and Social Isolation 22 |
For more information about benefits, pensions and
allowances, contact the Pension Service, 0845 606 0265.
Your Money Matters Programme
The Benefit Enquiry Line can also offer general advice:
0800 882 200.
The Your Money Matters programme. It provides free,
impartial and confidential information and advice on
money management. They cover such topics as:
Age Concern: 0113 389 3003/4.
Provides help with benefits, and can take all necessary
details for Pension Credit, Council Tax and Housing
Benefit to forward to the Department of Work and
Pensions.
Neighbourhood Network Schemes: (see Glossary)
Some schemes may be able to provide help and
advice – check with your local scheme.
Citizen’s Advice Bureau: 0113 281 6705
(can do a home visit for housebound older people)
Legal Advice and Legal Aid (Community Legal Service
Direct): 0845 345 4345
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Opening a bank account
Chip and Pin
Using cash points (ATM’s)
Credit Cards
Loans
Budgeting
Help with Debt
If you are working with an older person who needs
debt or money management advice, this three-year
programme is running for 3 years from 2007. For more
information, or to make a referral, contact Angela
Cawthra 0113 244 0575.
Leeds City Council Benefits Service: 0113 222 4404
Health Through Warmth: 0113 395 7152
Free or subsidised central heating installed for those
with health-related difficulties.
Turn2us
Extensive lists of organisations that provide financial
support: www.turn2us.org.uk
Leeds Citizen’s Advice Bureau: 0844 477 4788
(10–4pm, Monday - Friday)
Free energy saving advice and sources of financial
support for improvements.
Westminster Buildings, 31 New York Street,
Leeds LS2 7DT
www.leedscab.org.uk
Fuel Savers:
0800 512 012 / 0113 395 7159
www.leeds.gov.uk/fuelsavers
| 23 Older People and Social Isolation
Black and Minority Ethnic Elders (BME Elders)
In Leeds it is estimated that there are 10,500 people
aged 60 and over from approximately 12 different
Black and Minority Ethnic communities, the majority
from Indian, Pakistani, Irish and Caribbean communities
(Healthy Leeds 2006: 26 & Mahony 2007).
Black and Minority Ethnic elders are not a homogenous
community, and they are affected by diverse issues.
However, there are certain significant barriers that
many older people from Black and Minority Ethnic
communities face when accessing services, which
is likely to make them feel socially excluded. These
barriers include:
•
•
•
•
Language
Inadequate provision of culturally specific services
Financial difficulties
Lack of training for mainstream staff on specific
cultural needs
• Racism
(Healthy Leeds 2006: 27)
Advocacy Support: 0113 235 1877
Culturally sensitive advocacy and advice services in a
range of languages.
Older Gypsies and Travellers
Although the average life expectancy of older people
in Leeds is 78.2 years, this is dramatically reduced for
the gypsy and traveller population to about 50 years.
Gypsy and traveller older people face multiple barriers
to health and social care services and are frequently
subjected to evictions.
There are 1,071 Gypsies and Travellers in Leeds.
(Healthy Leeds 2006: 26)
GATE (The Gypsy and Traveller Exchange) provide
support, information and advice. Contact: 0113 240 2444.
All these barriers can result in social exclusion and
isolation.
There are a range of services, from city-wide to local,
and also those provided through faith communities.
Below are a selection of organisations:
Leeds Black Elders Association: 0113 237 4332
Touchstone: 0113 271 8277 and 216 3143
Provides community mental health services and a
neighbourhood service for Sikh elders across the city.
Leeds Chinese Women’s Group: 0113 234 9030
Provides services for Chinese elders and families.
Leeds Irish Health and Homes: 0113 262 5614
Leeds Jewish Welfare Board: 0113 268 4211
Hamara Centre: 0113 277 3330
Variety of services with a particular focus on BME
communities in South Leeds.
EMBolden Service, Leeds Ferderated Housing
Association: 0113 386 1000
Provides support to the BME community aged 55+
throughout the city.
Older People and Social Isolation 24 |
“It was like somebody had shut you
up in a box and said, ‘look, that’s
your place. Stay there. It’s an awful
feeling, it really is.”
(Thomas Pocklington Trust 2003: 6)
Sensory impairment
A sensory impairment can increase the risk of social
isolation and exclusion (www.rnib.org.uk, www.rnid.org.
uk) and can include visual and hearing impairment.
• At least one front-line staff member should have
basic deaf awareness training.
(www.rnid.org.uk)
One study found that the significant barriers to social
inclusion for visually impaired older people were:
The RNIB offer the following advice to make services
accessible to visually impaired people: (www.rnib.org.uk)
• Confined to the home due to fearfulness of harm or
exploitation.
• Inability to negotiate the physical environment.
• Unavailability of people to accompany them to social
settings.
• Make things bigger, brighter and bolder.
• Use larger tools to help with activities (e.g. a larger
paintbrush).
• Always use good lighting.
• Try using a magnifier for reading.
• Use the audio description for TV programmes.
• Use brightly coloured adhesive plastic labels (called
‘bump-ons’) to mark the settings on your cooker
and microwave oven.
• Try the selection of large games and puzzles from RNIB.
This lead many people to feel they were ‘disconnected
from neighbours and the community’ (UCL 2002: 1).
Some people with sensory impairment find it very
difficult to undertake new ventures, however small,
without some support. Loss of vision means you can’t
read signs, or pick up body language, and struggle to
access information about services in the first place.
Currently, around 2 million people people in the UK
have an uncorrectable sight problem, and over 50% of
visually impaired older people live alone. However, an
RNIB survey said that only few had been offered any
training in daily living skills (www.rnib.org.uk).
The RNID have found that 66% of deaf and hard of
hearing people feel isolated and excluded from social
activities (www.rnid.org.uk). However, they provide a
list of ways to make your service accessible:
• Ask patients how they prefer to communicate and
add a note to the person’s records.
• Allow more time for appointments.
• Have a display board to announce the next
appointment.
• Provide communication support, such as a sign
language interpreter.
• Provide helpful equipment, such as an induction loop.
• Make sure staff are aware of RNID Typetalk, this
service allows communication between textphones
and telephones.
• Remember to face your patient and use other
communication tips.
| 25 Older People and Social Isolation
Healthcall Optical Services: 0800 220 573
Provide free sight tests and supplies spectacles for
people who are housebound and in sheltered, nursing
or residential accommodation
For an assessment of need for people experiencing
loss of sight, please refer to the Rehabilitation officers
(Visual Impairment) who can provide training,
equipment and support: 0113 222 4401
Leeds Centre for Deaf and Blind People:
0113 243 8328 www.leedsdeafandblind.org.uk
A large community centre providing services and
equipment
Sign Language and Interpreting Service:
0113 246 9990
Qualified interpreters available for deaf and deafblind
people in Leeds
Shire View Centre: 0113 214 4544
Advice, support and information about sensory
impairment
Leeds Jewish Care Services: 0113 268 4211
Dedicated Sensory Impairment worker for the Jewish
Community
Physical and Sensory Impairment’s Network:
0113 297 7920
A network of Voluntary and Community Sector groups
Older people in care homes
It is often assumed that when an older person lives in
residential or nursing care, there is less likelihood that
they will be socially isolated.
However, although for some people the move into
a care home is a positive one, there are an equal
number, for whom the move is associated with loss,
bringing many of the same feelings as bereavement.
These losses can include:
•
•
•
•
•
Loss
Loss
Loss
Loss
Loss
of
of
of
of
of
independence
health
family/partners
home
community
In a 2006 survey in Leeds, over 72% of care homes
surveyed in Leeds had residents that they felt were
isolated and lonely, despite often being surrounded
by people (Chesters, Frankland and Ingold 2006: 1).
In general, there are only limited activities within care
homes, and few residents form close relationships with
other residents (Older Better 2006: 29). This leads to
feelings of loneliness and isolation which can often
exacerbate depression.
The adjacent case study highlights some of the
issues that might be faced by older people following
a move into a care home. However, it is important
to remember that even without specific barriers to
communication, residents can still feel lonely and
isolated.
Contacts:
Age Concern Advocacy Service: 0113 245 8579
Advocacy Network (has a directory of Advocacy
Services in Leeds): 0113 244 9045
Advocacy Support (for people from Black and Minority
Ethnic Communities): 0113 235 1877
Leeds Black Elders Advocacy Scheme: 0113 237 4332
Help the Aged: 020 7278 1114 www.helptheaged.org.uk
Leeds CARE Association: 0113 287 7555
Mr Lim
Mr Lim (70) came to the UK twenty years ago, with his
wife. Mr Lim has Parkinson’s Disease and has variable
mobility. At times, he requires a wheel-chair to mobilise.
Until recently, his wife was caring for him at their
home in Leeds but his needs became such that
it was decided that he should move to a care
home. However, the only care home that could
accommodate his needs was 2 bus rides away from his
home, so his wife is only able to visit once a week.
Since his move, Mr Lim has felt increasingly depressed
and isolated. His anxiety about the move into care has
affected him so much that he has reverted back to his
native language for much communication, and he finds
it very difficult to communicate with staff and other
residents, or participate in the activities of the home.
Mostly, Mr Lim stays in his room, alone, and he has
recently taken most of his meals in his room alone.
The care home manager with Mr Lim, decided to
contact a local community group catering specifically
for Black and Minority Ethnic Elders. They were able
to send a ‘befriender’ to meet Mr Lim. Although he
initially felt worried, Mr Lim quickly grew to appreciate
the weekly visits, particularly the discussions they had
about his home land, and the newspapers that the
befriender brought in his native language.
Soon Mr Lim and the befriender met in the communal
areas of the home and some of the other residents
became interested in these conversations and began
to ask questions. When the befriender brought along
a music tape of cultural music, Mr Lim began to talk
about himself with the staff and other residents, with
the befriender translating. Mr Lim is slowly adapting to
the care home and the changes that it brings to his life.
Relatives and Residents Association: 020 7359 8148
http://www.relres.org
Older People and Social Isolation 26 |
“A carer is someone, who, without payment,
provides help and support to a partner, child,
relative, friend or neighbour, who could not
manage without their help. This could be due
to age, physical or mental illness, addiction or
disability.” (Carers UK www.carersuk.org.uk)
Carers
“The 2001 census showed that there
are over 70,000 carers in Leeds
helping to support an adult or child
relative, neighbour or friend at home”
(Leeds Social Services 2006: 2)
Many older people are themselves carers of other
older people, or of adult children.
For some people, caring can be isolating and many
do not know what help and support is available
for them. Carers can face guilt, depression, poverty
and ill-health, and many do not see themselves as a
formal ‘carer’, but just someone caring for a loved
one or friend.
In order to be able to keep caring, carers need
regular breaks and time for themselves, although for
some it is difficult to find the time and this leads to
increased isolation.
There are several organisations in Leeds who provide
support for carers, in order for them to continue
with their vital role.
Social Services can do an assessment of the needs
of the carer, to help get the services they need
regardless of whether the person who is cared for is
using services from Social Services or not. To ask for
an assessment, call the Contact Centre on 0113 222
4401. Carers of people using mental health services
can also get a Carers Needs Assessment by speaking
to the mental health service professional involved
with the person they care for.
| 27 Older People and Social Isolation
Respite and sitting services
Moorcare: 0113 268 4211
Czajka Care Services (Respite Service): 0113 274 1900
Crossroads Leeds: 0113 271 6457
Support and general advice for carers
Alzheimer’s Society Leeds: 0113 231 1727
Information, advice and support group for carers of
people with Dementia/Alzheimer’s, of any age, and Day
Centre for people under 65 with early onset dementia.
Carers Leeds: 0113 246 8338
Advice, information, financial help, social events,
courses, support from other carers.
Carers UK • National Helpline: 0808 808 7777
Older Carers Support Service: 0113 272 0377
Support service for people over 65 caring for an adult
with learning disabilities or mental health problems.
Financial and other advice
Carers Leeds: 0113 246 8338
Citizens Advice Bureau: 08701 202 450 & local offices.
Leeds City Council Benefits Service:
0113 222 4404
Short breaks and other respite breaks
• From Social Services after an Assessment
• Family Placement – contact Social Services
• Home Based sitters schemes
are due to change from 1 September 2009. Please
contact Carers Leeds after this date for the details:
0113 246 8338
Gloria and Jim
Jim and Gloria have been married for 40 years and
have lived in Leeds for 20 years. They do not have
any children, but they were close with their nephew
in Huddersfield, who they used to enjoy visiting a
great deal.
Two years ago, Gloria was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s
Disease. Although they did not notice many changes
initially – Gloria just used to forget the names of
things – in the last six months, Jim feels Gloria has
deteriorated significantly. Gloria now wakes several
times during the night, often getting up and walking
around the house. One two occasions, Jim found
her trying to open the front door. Jim is now finding
that he cannot leave Gloria alone for too long, as she
often gets up to look for him and he worries that she
will get out of the house and get lost.
Gloria now needs assistance with all aspects of
personal care, and when Jim tried to get help,
Gloria became very distressed and shouted at the
support worker, so Jim cancelled all the help that
was provided. Jim has noticed that their friends have
recently stopped visiting and he thinks this is because
they cannot cope seeing the deterioration in Gloria.
Jim now finds he has very little time for himself, and
while he used to be captain of the local bowls club
and he and Gloria used to love going to the cinema,
they are now not able to do this. Sometimes Jim feels
that the four walls of the house are pressing in on
him, and he cannot escape. He feels that he has no
one to confide in, and is not sure how much longer
he can continue to cope.
1. Who is isolated?
2. What are the key issues for Jim?
3. What would you suggest?
Carers Emergency Plan Scheme
This scheme aims to give carers peace of mind
by enabling them to make a plan, ahead of any
emergency, for what would happen if they were
called away in an emergency such as their own illhealth or an accident.
It is a document called a Carers Emergency Plan,
in which the carer writes down what arrangements
they have made for someone to take their place
in an emergency (the first 24hrs), and this plan is
registered with an organisation called Carering,
who operate a 24hr Contact Centre (they also
provide the community Alarm Scheme).
CareRing give the plan a unique reference number,
and issue you, the carer, with a card with the
reference number and the telephone number
which you keep on you. The original document is
kept in a secure place.
If the plan needs to be activated, the telephone
number is rung, the unique Plan reference number
given, and Carering activate the plan by calling
the contact which has been identified as the
replacement carer.
If the carer does not have anyone who can step in
to replace them, then arrangements can be made
to plan for a care agency to take their place.
(Leeds Social Services (2006))
CareRing: 0113 224 3485
www.leeds.gov.uk/carering
Older People and Social Isolation 28 |
Summary of useful organisations
and contact details
Social services Contact Centre: 0845 125 4113
Neighbourhood Network Schemes (NNS):
Voluntary Sector locality or ethnicity based
organisations for older people in Leeds. Providing
advice, support, social opportunities, exercise and
learning opportunities. Each scheme is independent
and provides different services. A list of neighbourhood
network schemes is in the next section of this
resource pack.
City-Wide Voluntary Orgs:
Voluntary sector organisations working across Leeds.
These can be specific to condition (e.g. Alzheimer’s
Society, Stroke Association) and can also be part of
larger national charities. Providing social opportunities,
support, advice. For a full list, see www.opforum.org.uk
Leeds Older People’s Forum:
A voluntary sector organisation that exists to support
and represent voluntary sector organisations working
with older people in Leeds. For more information
contact 0113 380 4911 or www.opforum.org.uk
Volition:
A Voluntary Sector organisation that exists to support
and represent voluntary sector organisations working
with people with mental health difficulties.
Contact 0113 274 9585 or www.volition.org.uk
Physical and Sensory Impairment Network:
A Network of organisations of and for people with
a physical or sensory impairment. Contact 0113 297
7942.
Learning Disabilities Forum:
A voluntary sector organisation that exists to support
and represent organisations of and for individuals with
learning difficulties. Contact 0113 278 7300 or
www.ldforum.org.uk
NHS Direct: 0845 46 47
| 29 Older People and Social Isolation
Leeds Church Institute:
0113 245 4700
www.leedschurchinstitute.org
(a list of churches in Leeds/specific areas)
Active Faith Communities:
0845 658 0388
www.activefaiths.org.uk
(a list of faith organisations in Leeds)
Faith in Elderly People:
Affirms the value and gifts of older people and seeks to
meet their spiritual needs.
[email protected]
0113 269 8480
Statutory Housing Organisations (ALMOS)
West North West Homes: 0800 915 1113
www.westnorthwesthomesleeds.org.uk
East North East Homes: 0800 915 1600
www.eastnortheasthomesleeds.org.uk
Aire Valley Homes: 0800 915 6660
www.avhleeds.org.uk
Voluntary Sector Housing Organisations
Leeds Federated Housing Association: 0113 386 1000
www.lfha.co.uk
Housing 21: 0845 606 6363
www.housing21.co.uk
Leeds Housing Concern: 0113 276 0616
www.leedshc.org.uk
Anchor Trust: 0845 775 8595
www.anchorhousing.org.uk
Connect Housing: 0113 235 0202
www.theridingha.org.uk
Leeds Citizens Advice Bureau:
0844 477 4788 or 0870 120 2450
www.leedscab.org.uk
Westminster Buildings, 31 New York Street,
Leeds LS2 7DT
One Stop Centres:
Armley One Stop Centre
2 Stocks Hill
Armley
LS12 1UQ
Morley One Stop Centre
Morley Town Hall
Leeds
LS27 9DY
Osmondthorpe One Stop Centre
81a Wykebeck Mount
Leeds
LS9 0JE
Dewsbury Road One Stop Centre
190 Dewsbury Road
Leeds
LS11 6PF
City Centre One Stop
2 Great George Street
Leeds
LS2 8BA
Otley One Stop Centre
8 Boroughgate
Otley
Leeds
LS21 3AH
Wetherby One Stop Centre
24 Westgate
Wetherby
LS22 6NL
Garforth One Stop Centre
1-5 Main Street
Garforth
LS25 1DU
Older People and Social Isolation 30 |
Leeds Neighbourhood Network Schemes
For more details of the activities provided, please contact the individual schemes, or visit www.olderpeopleleeds.info
This is not an exhaustive list of older people’s voluntary sector organisations in Leeds. For more information,
including a list of city-wide voluntary sector groups, please contact Leeds Older People’s Forum or visit our
website www.opforum.org.uk
East Leeds:
Action for Gipton Elderly
5-11 Oak Tree Drive
Gipton
Leeds LS8 3LJ
Tel: 0113 240 9784
Works in LS8 and LS9
Burmantofts Senior Action
St Agnes’ Church Hall
25 Shakespeare Close
Leeds LS9 7UQ
Tel: 0113 248 9191
Works in Burmantofts, Ebor Gardens, Lincoln Green,
parts of Harehills
North Seacroft Good Neighbours Scheme
Kentmere Community Centre
Kentmere Avenue
Seacroft
Leeds LS14 1BW
Tel: 0113 232 3662
Works in North Seacroft
Richmond Hill Elderly Action
Richmond Hill Community Centre
Long Close Lane
Leeds LS9 8NP
Tel: 0113 248 5200
Works in Richmond Hill, Cross Green, East End Park,
Saxton Gardens, Osmondthorpe Lane
Cross Gates & District Good Neighbours Scheme
Station Road
Cross Gates
Leeds LS15 7JY
Tel: 0113 260 6565
www.crossgatesgns.org.uk
Works in Cross Gates, Manston, Pendas, Austhorpe,
Colton, Whitkirk, Temple Newsam and Halton
South Seacroft Friends and Neighbours Scheme
The Methodist Church Hall
1081 York Road
Seacroft
Leeds LS14 6JB
Tel: 0113 226 4096
Website: www.ssfn.co.uk
Works in South Seacroft
The Halton Moor and Osmondthorpe Project
for Elders (HOPE)
Osmondthorpe One Stop Centre
81a Wykebeck Mount
Leeds LS9 0JE
Tel: 0113 247 7665
Works in Halton Moor and Osmondthorpe
Swarcliffe Good Neighbours Scheme
St Gregory’s Centre
Stanks Gardens
Swarcliffe
Leeds LS14 5LS
Tel: 0113 232 6910
Works in South Swarcliffe, Stanks and Whinmoor
Neighbourhood Elders Team
62c Main Street
Garforth
Leeds LS25 1AA
Tel: 0113 287 4784
Works in Garforth and the surrounding area
| 31 Older People and Social Isolation
North East:
North West:
Chapel Allerton Good Neighbours Scheme (WRVS)
1a Gledhow Mansions
Roxholme Grove
Leeds LS7 4JJ
Tel: 0113 262 3619
Covers Chapel Allerton
Aireborough Voluntary Services to the Elderly with
Disabilities (AVSED)
Suffolk Court
Silver Lane
Yeadon LS19 7JN
Tel: 0113 250 1702
Works in LS19, LS20
Community Action for Roundhay Elderly
St Edmunds Church
Lidgett Park Road
Roundhay
Leeds LS8 1JN
Tel: 0113 268 0406
Works in Roundhay, Oakwood, Moortown
(East of Harrogate Road), Brackenwood
Leeds Black Elders Association (LBEA)
180 Chapeltown Road
Leeds LS7 4HP
Tel: 0113 237 4332
Website: www.lbea.co.uk
Works in Chapeltown and with African-Caribbean
elders across Leeds
Meanwood Elders Neighbourhood Action (MENA)
Meanwood Community Centre
Stainbeck Avenue
Leeds LS7 2QU
Tel: 0113 230 6545
Works in Meanwood, LS7, LS17, parts of LS6
Moor Allerton Elderly Care (MAECare)
57 Cranmer Bank
Leeds LS17 5JD
Tel: 0113 266 0371
Website: www.maecare.org.uk
Works in Moortown, Alwoodley, Shadwell
Wetherby in Support of the Elderly (WISE)
One Stop Centre
24 Westgate
Wetherby LS22 6NL
Tel: 01937 588 994
Website: www.w-ise.org.uk
Works in Wetherby and surrounding villages
Caring Together in Woodhouse and Little London
(CTiWLL)
Woodhouse Community Centre
197 Woodhouse Street
Leeds LS6 2NY
Tel: 0113 243 0298
Fax: 0113 244 3926
Works in LS2, LS6, parts of LS7
Hawksworth Older People’s Support
6 Broadway
Hawksworth Wood
Leeds LS5 3PR
Tel: 0113 228 5552
Fax: 0113 228 5550
Works in Hawksworth Wood
Horsforth Live at Home Scheme
The Central Methodist Church
Town Street
Horsforth
Leeds LS18 4AH
Tel: 0113 259 1511
Fax: 0113 259 1511
Works in Horsforth
Supporting the Elderly People (STEP)
St Andrews Church
Butcher Hill
Leeds LS16 5BG
Tel: 0113 275 7988
Works in West Park and Upper and Far Headingley
Older People’s Action in the Locality
Unit 10, Holt Park District Centre
Leeds LS16 7SR
Tel: 0113 261 9103
Fax: 0113 261 9128
Website: www.opal-project.org.uk
Works in LS16
Older People and Social Isolation 32 |
Otley Action for Older People
Otley Civic Centre
Cross Green
Otley LS21 1HD
Tel: 01943 463 965
Fax: 01943 467 106
Works in Otley and surrounding area
Older Active People
The Cardigan Centre
145-149 Cardigan Road
Leeds LS6 1LJ
Tel: 0113 274 9154
www.olderactivepeople.org.uk
Works in Burley, Hyde Park, Little Woodhouse,
Headingley and parts of Kirkstall
South:
Belle Isle Elderly Winter Aid
Low Grange House
6 – 8 Low Grange Crescent
Belle Isle
Leeds LS10 3AE
Tel: 0113 277 8208
Works in Belle Isle
Hamara Healthy Living Centre
Tempest Road
Beeston
Leeds LS11 6RD
Tel: 0113 277 3330
Website: www.hamara.org.uk
Works in South Leeds with a particular focus on
BME communities
Holbeck Elderly Aid
Oak House
Balm Walk
Holbeck
Leeds LS11 9PG
Tel: 0113 245 5553
Website: www.holbeckelderlyaid.org.uk
Works in Holbeck
Middleton Elderly Aid
Oak House
Balm Walk
Holbeck
Leeds LS11 9PG
Tel: 0113 272 1050
Works in Middleton
| 33 Older People and Social Isolation
Morley Elderly Action
Wesley House
32 Wesley Street
Morley
Leeds LS27 9DY
Tel: 0113 253 4484
Website: www.morleyelderlyaction.org.uk
Works in greater Morley
Rothwell and District Live at Home Scheme
The Rothwell Baptist Hall
Wood Lane
Rothwell
Leeds LS26 0PG
Tel: 0113 288 0887
Works in Thorpe-on-the-Hill, Lofthouse,
Robin Hood, Carlton, Rothwell, Oulton,
Woodlesford, Methley
South Leeds Live at Home Scheme
St Andrews Methodist Church
Old Lane
Beeston
Leeds LS11 8AG
Tel: 0113 271 6201
Covers Beeston, Hunslet, Cottingley
West:
Armley Helping Hands
Strawberry Lane Community Centre
Strawberry Lane
Armley
Leeds LS12 1SF
Tel: 0113 279 9292
Works in Armley, Wortley
Bramley Elderly Action
230A Stanningley Road
Bramley
Leeds LS13 3BA
Tel: 0113 236 1644
Works in Bramley
Farsley Live at Home Scheme
Farsley Parish Church Hall
New Street, Farsley
Leeds LS28 5DJ
Tel: 0113 290 9340
Works in Farsley, Calverly, Rodley and Tyersal
Neighbourhood Action for Farnley,
New Farnley and Moor Top
Farnley Community Centre
Cross Lane, Farnley
Leeds LS12 5AA
Tel: 0113 263 2945
Works in Farnley and surrounding area
Leeds Irish Health and Homes
Unit 5, Gemini Park
Sheepscar Way
Leeds LS7 3JB
Tel: 0113 262 5614
Website: www.lihh.org.uk
Works with Irish elders across Leeds
Pudsey Live at Home Scheme
St Andrew’s Methodist Church
Robin Lane, Pudsey
Leeds LS28 7BR
Tel: 0113 256 2717
Works in Pudsey
Leeds Kashmiri Elders Association
Woodsley Community Centre
64 Woodsley Road
Leeds LS3 1DU
Tel: 0113 244 2684
Works with Kashmiri elders across Leeds
Stanningley and Swinnow Live at Home Scheme
117 Norwood Crescent
Stanningley
Leeds LS28 6NG
Tel: 0113 255 8461
Works in Stanningley, Swinnow
Sikh Elders Service
Touchstone House
2–4 Middleton Crescent
Leeds LS11 6JU
Tel: 0113 216 3143
City Wide Groups and Schemes:
Age Concern Leeds
188A Woodhouse Lane
Leeds LS2 9DX
Tel: 0113 245 8579
Café, information and advice, educational and leisure
activities, hairdressing, insurance services
Association of Blind Asians
Shire View
72 Headingley Lane
Leeds LS6 2DJ
Tel: 0113 214 4538
Works with Asian elders with visual impairments
Care and Repair Leeds
323 Roundhay Road
Leeds LS8 4HT
Tel: 0113 240 6009
Website: www.care-repair-leeds.org.uk
The Home Improvement Agency for Leeds, helping
older people, disabled people and people on low
incomes to live in safe, warm, secure, well maintained
and adapted homes
Leeds Black Elders Association (LBEA)
180 Chapeltown Road
Leeds LS7 4HP
Tel: 0113 237 4332
Website: www.lbea.co.uk
Works in Chapeltown and with African-Caribbean
elders across Leeds
South Leeds Elderly and Community Group
73 Lodge Lane
Leeds LS11 6EP
Tel: 0113 277 6404
Website: www.slecg.org.uk
Works with Muslim elders, especially Beeston and
Holbeck
Other Neighbourhood Based Services
Hamwattan Elderly Group
c/o Montague Burton Resource Centre
Banstead Street West
Leeds LS8 5RV
Tel: 0113 240 8796
Works in North Leeds
South Leeds Elderly and Community Group
73 Lodge Lane
Leeds LS11 6EP
Tel: 0113 277 6404
Works with Muslim elders, especially Beeston and
Holbeck
West Indian Family Counselling Service and
Roscoe Luncheon Club for the Elderly
Roscoe Methodist Church
Francis Street
Leeds LS7 4BY
Tel: 0113 262 5131
Works in Chapeltown
Older People and Social Isolation 34 |
Some useful terms
BME
Black and Minority Ethnic. Any minority group who
have a shared race, nationality or language and culture.
This definition includes:
• Eastern Europeans
• Gypsy Travellers
• Irish people
• Black African and Black Caribbean people
• Asian and East Asian people
• People who are mixed race
Carer’s Assessment
An assessment facilitated by a social worker to look at
the needs, wishes and experiences of a carer.
Community Matron
Care for people with long-term conditions, helping
them to stay as well as possible in the community.
CPA
A framework for providing a programme of care for
service users with mental health difficulties. A service
user has a ‘care co-ordinator’ who monitors the care
and arranges regular reviews of these arrangements.
Individual Budget / Self-Directed Support
Upfront amount of social care and other funding
sources, giving eligible people a clear idea of how
much money is there for support, letting people
use the money in a way that suits them. For more
information visit: www.in-control.org.uk
Intermediate Care Refers to services which aim to provide intensive
rehabilitation to prevent hospital or residential/nursing
care admission or re-admission.
Neighbourhood Network Scheme
Independent voluntary sector organisations that work
within geographical or cultural communities to support
older people.
Occupational Therapist (O.T.)
Provides support and advice on rehabilitation, on
equipment for daily living, assessing people at home
and in hospital.
CPN
Community Psychiatric Nurse
POPPS: Partnerships for Older People’s Programme
Department of Health funded project to test
and evaluate innovative approaches that improve
preventative health care. In Leeds, this focused on
older people’s mental health services.
Direct Payments
Money given directly to people who are eligible
for social care services to enable them to buy the
assistance they need from alternative sources to the
local authority.
Respite Care
Any service which is provided in order to give service
users and carers a break from their usual care
arrangements. This can include services provided in the
home and longer breaks away from home.
District Nurse
Provides skilled nursing treatment, care and support to
patients and their carers in their homes.
Social Worker
Trained and registered with the General Social Care
Council to assess and support an individuals social needs.
Single Assessment Process (SAP)/Easy Care
A means of determining need used by both health
and social care professionals. It is a person-held
record, consisting of contact, overview and specialist
assessments and care plans. The tool that is used in
Leeds is Easy Care.
| 35 Older People and Social Isolation
Bibliography
Age Concern (2006) Just Above the Breadline: Living
on a low income in later life. Age Concern: London.
Age Concern (2007) Older People in the UK: Key Facts
and Statistics 2007. Last accessed 29th October 2007.
www.ageconcern.org.uk
Cattan, M. (2002) Supporting Older People to overcome
social isolation and loneliness. Help the Aged: London.
Cattan, M., White, M., Bond, J., Learmouth, A.
(2005). Preventing Social Isolation and Loneliness
among older people: a systematic review of health
promotion interventions. Ageing and Society 25.
Chesters, S., Frankland, C., Ingold, K (2006) Research
into befriending schemes in older people’s care
homes in Leeds. Unpublished (contact Leeds Older
People’s Forum for more information).
Department of Health (2000) Who Cares? Information
and Support for the Carers of Confused People.
Department of Health: London.
Erskine, S (2006) Older People’s Health Needs
Assessment. Leeds West PCT.
Findlay, R., Cartwright, C. (2002) Social Isolation and
Older People: A Literature Review. Online:www.
communities.qld.gov.au/seniors/isolation/consultation/
documents/pdf/LiteratureReview. Last accessed: 22nd
September 2007.
Forbes, A. (1996) Caring for Older People: Loneliness.
Catholic Care Agency for Social Concern: London.
Healthy Leeds (2006) Older Better: A Strategy to
promote a healthy and active life for older people in
Leeds 2006 – 2011. Leeds Initiative: Leeds.
Hawton and Simkin (2006) Help is at Hand: A resource
for people bereaved by suicide and other sudden,
traumatic death. Department of Health: London.
Help the Aged (2003) Depression and older people:
Towards Securing well-being in later life (Summary
Briefing). Help the Aged: London.
Help the Aged and Barclays (2006) Thinking about
money: Budgeting and Managing Debt – Advice for
Older People. Help the Aged: London.
Help the Aged (2007) (a) Taking Control of
Incontinence: Exploring the links with social isolation.
Help the Aged: London.
Help the Aged (2007) (b) National Falls Awareness
Day Fact Sheet. Help the Aged: London.
Joseph Rowntree Foundation (2005) Volunteering in
Retirement. Online: www.jrf.org.uk/knowledge/findings/
socialpolicy/0115.asp. Last Accessed 05/10/2007.
Leeds Social Services (2006) Quick Guide to Services
for Carers. Leeds Social Services, Leeds.
Mahony, C. (2007) Personal Correspondence.
Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (2006) A Sure
Start to Later Life: Ending Inequalities for Older
People. A Social Exclusion Unit Final Report. Office of
the Deputy Prime Minister: London.
Thomas Pocklington Trust (2003) Meeting the needs
of older people with visual impairment: social care
or social exclusion. Occasional Paper, 2003, 2 www.
pocklington-trust.org.uk. Last Accessed 29th September
2007.
UCL (2002) The Housing, Care and Support Needs
of Older People with Visual Impairments Living in a
variety of settings: Findings and Recommendations.
Sponsored by Thomas Pocklington Trust: London.
www.pocklington-trust.org.uk. Last accessed 29th
September 2007.
Older People and Social Isolation 36 |
Notes
For more information about this resource
pack or the training, contact:
Rachel Cooper
Leeds Older People’s Forum
60 Upper Basinghall Street
Leeds LS1 5HR
0113 380 4911
[email protected]
www.opforum.org.uk
Design for Health ref: 1606/OPMT • August 2009