Fitbit fanatics and count every step we take.


This requirement to take more responsibility for our own health appears to be working. The young, middle-aged and more active elderly are taking the advice and doing what they can to slow the inevitable effects of ageing. But many still do not or are unwilling or unable to do so. And what about those where running and cycling is a thing of the past? How do we help them stay as independent and healthy as possible as we all grow older and perhaps struggle to maintain a decent lifestyle, face the possibility of cognitive decline and even begin to lose our choice and dignity? How do we as a society cope with the increasing number of people able to live longer but not always healthily, comfortably or happily.


Jersey is certainly not alone in having to cope with a significant increase in the proportion of people retired or not working, although as a small island we are more vulnerable to this demographic change.


Many studies have been undertaken globally to analysis how best to tackle the problems associated with ageing. It is a sobering thought that according to the US-based International Longevity Centre, one in three of the population in the US will suffer from some form of dementia. Similarly, NHS statistics say one in 14 people over the age of 65 have dementia and the condition affects one in six over the age of 80.


An early diagnosis helps people get the right treatment and support, so they can continue to lead active and fulfilling lives. But all of this creates a challenge for ourselves, our families, the health service and society as a whole. We will all have to deal with the difficult decisions that have to be made and managed.


Lack of physical or cognitive function reduces the ability to perform daily self-care. This may develop in days or slowly over several months and has an impact on people’s personal, social and financial well- being. Normal tasks such as hygiene care, cooking a nutritious meal or visiting friends becomes difficult or else forgotten. For many, the fear of losing control as one gets older is frightening and people can try to hide their problems thinking they can manage for themselves.


A King’s College London study in 2019, before the pandemic, found that loneliness also affects approximately 9% of people over the age of 65 in the UK. The recent isolation of more people due to the pandemic shows us how lack of engagement with people, who are unable to see families and friends or attend weekly social gatherings has lowered their physical and mental health. That has impacted on their loved ones, thus increasing stress for many families. This supports the view that increased participation in social, mental and physical activities can slow the rate of cognitive decline.


Strong relationships can also reduce stress and people also care for themselves and each other better. When socialising goes, the social circle becomes smaller and so we participate less in life. A significant part of the solution is to identify this as early as possible and to


encourage active social participation before isolation takes hold. This can include such straightforward solutions as providing free bus passes for the elderly to enable them to remain connected to their social world if they cannot drive. That simple bus pass can encourage physical exercise and social interaction, both of which will have a positive effect.


Another simple remedy


Health Care Assistant's Mark Bisson & Priscilla Minchinton deliver Christmas meals to clients who were alone on Christmas Day.


Beyond 20/20 - Features Page 53


is encouraging those at risk to join clubs, or perhaps take up a new hobby before loneliness sets in. The key here is to advertise and promote what is available so that everyone is aware of the very many things they can participate in.


In Jersey, the parish halls are a good source of information on what is available locally.


Families and friends can also help those who may be a little reluctant to try out something new or perhaps something that evokes memories. Swimming, bowls and walking are easy and cheap to do and they aid physical and mental health. Most important is to recognise that even if there is reluctance at first, if you are gently encouraging, your loved one will almost always be keen to become more active. The key is to try to make this happen early enough.


More difficult, but also with positive outcomes, is support for using the internet. There are apps available with a virtual coach who interacts with the older person. Again, this process needs to be supported and encouraged by family and friends and started early enough to have maximum impact. The benefit of word games such as crosswords and Sudoku are obvious as they can stimulate and help memory. Dominoes can be fun and there are many other virtual games accessible to play today that the whole family or just an individual can enjoy.


Comfort is, of course crucial, and most people are most comfortable in their own homes. The building may need to be adapted to the needs of an ageing occupant, but even small adjustments can help. Talking clocks can be useful, and there is an ever-growing range of devices and apps that can observe or make regular checks to ensure people are safe at home and have not fallen.


Some families may not be big enough or able to take on the full responsibility of looking after elderly relatives. That is when they can call on the assistance of home care agencies. Obviously, the care provided by an agency can be critical, for example, by making sure the right medication is taken at the right time. The person may require more complex care which is tailored to meet their specific needs, and most agencies have specialist staff to cope with that.


However, a lot of people simply require a social visit, or a trip to the shops with perhaps a cup of tea and a chat. Home care staff do that all of the time, but they can also help with preparing meals, coping with household chores or simply keeping clients engaged and mentally active. This also has the great benefit of giving carers and health care workers the chance to spot any changes taking place with the health or behaviour of the loved one. Quick remedial action can then be taken.


The carers are there to support people with their physical and mental health and help them maintain their independence, privacy and dignity. They are also there when problems arise.


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