A new booklet has been produced to signpost older people to support services across the Stirling area.
The 12 page brochure, designed by Stirling Council’s Community Development team, is a self-help guide for older people to maintain their independence, choice and control of their lives.
It has been launched today this week to mark the International Day of Older People.
The booklet has been compiled in partnership with the Clackmannanshire and Stirling Health & Social Care Partnership, NHS Forth Valley, local charities and voluntary groups and features everything from advice on benefits maximisation, legal matters, health, volunteering, social connections and help and safety at home.
It is available as a download and printed copies can also be obtained from community centres, Stirling Citizens Advice Bureau, libraries, health centres and community hospitals, as well as housing association partners and the MECS social care team.
Copies will also be distributed at a series of roadshows being undertaken in the coming months by the Community Development Team and its partners, who will visit older people’s groups, activity hubs and lunch clubs.
Cllr Elaine Watterson, Stirling Council’s Older People’s Champion, visited the Balfron Lunch Club to promote the booklet, with members of the Community Development Team also on hand to offer advice and support.
Cllr Watterson said: “I welcome the new booklet of key contacts as it is vitally important the needs, concerns and challenges of older people are considered in the design and delivery of our services.
“The fact that many of us are living longer is something to celebrate, but it may mean we need a small amount of support to make the most of later life.
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“The booklet signposts older people in our communities to support services and organisations that they can access directly, helping them to live independent, healthy and fulfilling lives.
“It also acknowledges the wonderful organisations providing support in our communities, often managed and run by volunteers. Their passion and enthusiasm for helping others amazes and inspires me.”
There are an estimated 25,000 people in the Stirling Council area aged over 60 – approximately 27 per cent of the local population – and feedback on their needs and concerns will also be taken at the roadshows to inform future, updated versions of the booklet and inform how other services develop.
The Community Development Team are particularly keen to gather data on issues such as isolation and loneliness, housing adaptations, care needs and financial concerns.
Any group or organisation for older people that wishes to host a roadshow can contact the Community Development Team by emailing [email protected].
Stirling’s Council Advice Services team are also keen to offer advice to older people on their entitlement to benefits – and they can even carry out a full assessment to check eligibility.
Qualifying for even £1 of Pension Credit can open up doors to further benefits, including the Winter Fuel Payment. Email [email protected] or call 01786-233528 for more details.