Assistance for older people wanting to stay in their own homes

It’s good news all round for older people who want to stay in their own homes ... £1 million is to be invested in day services across the city.

Day services play an important role in services for older people, particularly as we shift away from providing care in residential settings and towards people living in their own homes.

The money will allow more day care places and improve facilities and choice in existing services. The funding was announced following a two-year review which found that although there were many examples of excellent practice, there were also many gaps in the services.

Day care users and their carers were consulted and their opinions were taken on board. Although most users were happy with the service they received, it was agreed that more choice would be a good thing.

This may allow for the user of the service to be taken out for a day, or have a support worker visit them in their own home.

As well as the elderly, vulnerable people are being helped to live their lives independently and with a sense of security, thanks to more than £500,000 being invested in telecare services in the city.

The Council and NHS Lothian will use the Scottish Executive funding to develop assistive technology which is tailored to support individuals’ needs so that they can live in their own home rather than in care homes and hospitals.

Some of the options available include activity monitoring and fire and gas alarms. The funding will also be used to further enhance the Council’s Community Alarm Service – a 24-hour response service currently benefiting 8,500 residents citywide.