Care of the Elderly

Post date: Feb 03, 2020 3:10:18 PM

At the September 2018 meeting of the Council of Faiths there was a presentation from Nick Stacey, a director of MK Age UK, who gave a presentation referring to hardcopies of a Powerpoint presentation.

Nick explained that MK Age UK is an independent local charity. So, all money raised in Milton Keynes stays in Milton Keynes. There are 141 Age UKs in the country.

It has existed since 1978 and has over 200 staff and between 450 and 500, so about 650 in total.

One of the main drivers of the charity is the prevention of loneliness.

What matters to older people?

•          Independence

•          Choice

•          Being an individual

•          Being allowed to take risks

•          A well trained and trusted workforce

•          Having access to information and advice

What does Age UK do?

•          Keep older people at the heart of the organisation

•          Engage and communicate  effectively with all interested parties

•          Deliver appropriate services

•          Operate a well governed business with appropriate plans to manage and develop the organisation

•          Ensure financial stability

The threshold age is 55.

Age UK provides a number of Home Services

•          Hospital aftercare*

•          Deep Clean

•          Relief sitting

•          Home support

•          Toenail cutting

•          Befriending*

•          Advocacy*

•          Technology Help 

* No charge to client

Others are chargeable services 

The number of lunch clubs has reduced from 26 to 7 due to funding cuts. The average of attendees is 94.

The transport to lunch clubs is expensive, especially for wheel chairs.

Average age has increased from 75 to 94 in 15 years.

‘Care of the elderly especially in relation to different religious groups and ethnic groups’

•       Age UK MK do not record the faith of our clients

•       Age UK MK has assisted with faith and BME lunch clubs

•       Provide support and training to faith and BME groups

There was a very interesting and informative Q & A session and discussion around services for elderly people from different faith / BME backgrounds.