Senior Living
Enjoying the golden years of life
WITH improvements in health, housing and nutrition over the last few decades, the good news is that we are all living longer. The “baby boomer” generation is
reaching retirement age, meaning an increasing need for services for an ever growing older population. So, what is it like to be a senior, living in Maidstone? Let’s take a look. If you are after comfortable retirement
flats or bungalows, or a village complex, these can give you the freedom of living independently but with the reassurance of an onsite warden or manager. Sheltered housing schemes are on offer, provided terms and conditions are met. Alternatively if you have lived in your
current home for years, and don’t wish to move, then lucky you for choosing an excellent location. Once you are settled in your new or
current home, and you decide improvements need to be done but are unable to do them yourself, there are
agencies that can help for free with any home improvement, big or small. Kent Fire and Rescue Service is happy to conduct home safety checks. If you feel that you are entitled to extra benefits/allowances such as a carer’s or disability allowance or social services, the charity Citizens Rights for Older People can provide assistance. There are a wide range of social
groups and activities. Exercise classes run by Brighter Futures can help improve posture and stability, Age Concern run day care facilities every day of the week, including a specialised dementia day care facility in Bearsted. The Hazlitt Theatre holds regular ticketed events including tea dances, for the older generation, and the Salvation Army has a senior band that any keen instrument player can join. Kent Adult Education Centre runs courses for those who like to learn and enrich their minds. There are retirement clubs for most
areas in Maidstone - contact your local parish council for more details. If you would like to learn how to use a computer or digital camera, several
Maidstone
“Promoting the welfare of the older residents in the Borough of Maidstone”
As an independent local charity we believe that older people should remain free to choose the services they require. Our objective is to provide variety of services aimed at improving the quality of life for elderly people at a price they can afford.
• A vibrant Day Care Service in seven locations throughout the Borough in partnership with Golding Homes and the PCT
• If required, transport can be provided to the Day Care facilities on our fleet of mini-buses
• Community Foot Care Services in the home or at our nearest clinic.
• Community Bathing Service in the home for Maidstone & Malling
• Independent Living Support for those that need help with their housework, garden or shopping • Advocacy Service for Maidstone & Malling
• Disability Travel Vouchers on behalf of Maidstone Borough Council
• Computer Classes for the over 60’s • Impartial information and advice signposting service • A list of local traders that have been recommended to us by older people
• Wheelchair Hire from our office in the town centre • The Goodman Centre for clients with Dementia • A range of volunteering opportunities to support us in our work
charities and organisation are able to help, provided you book space beforehand. To keep healthy, Age Concern offers a
foot care and home bathing service. Aqua aerobic classes at Mote Park Leisure centre can help keep you nimble, and for men, there is an over 50s circuit class. Lunch clubs in Madgingford, Staplehurst and at the Community Support Service can make sure you get a delicious hot meal. Alternatively, you can use a meal delivery service such as Apetito to ensure you have your “five a day”. To get around, you can enjoy free public transport at off-peak times, provided you have a bus pass. Charity organisations such as Voluntary Action Maidstone run a transport scheme for those who feel safer in a car or where buses are not available. All in all there are plenty of clubs,
parks, shopping and activities to enjoy. Just make sure you don’t wear yourself out. Supplied by Katie Frogley, Age Concern Maidstone
For more information on all our services, please feel free to contact us at: 11, Mill Street, Maidstone, Kent. ME15 6XW Between the hours of 10am-4pm Monday – Thursday, 10am-2pm Friday Or telephone us on 01622 753618 Or email:
info@ageconcernmaidstone.org.uk Or visit our website:
www.ageconcernmaidstone.org.uk
32 Mid Kent Living
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