Supporting the needs of our aging population
Colleagues from the GP Provider Supporter Unit (GPPSU) and Solihull Healthcare Partnership (SHP) recently attended a Pensioner’s Fair to support the needs of our older communities in Solihull.
Solihull’s population has a large proportion of residents aged 65 and over - projected to be the fastest growing age group over both the next 10 and 20 years. During that time it is predicted that there will be a 35% increase in the number of people aged 65 and over diagnosed with dementia and a 31% increase in those aged 65 and above to have mobility problems. Older people are also more likely to suffer from chronic lung conditions such as COPD.
Together, the GPPSU and SHP hosted a stall at the Pensioner’s Fair, organised by Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst, Member of Parliament for Solihull West and Shirley. GPPSU colleagues provided advice to attendees around accessing their GP surgeries. SHP showcased and encouraged patients to keep active and healthy with the ‘Step into Solihull’, Exercise Referral Scheme and reminded patients to book their flu and shingles vaccinations to keep themselves well this winter.
It was positive to see the engagement from a number of Solihull patients and great to hear their feedback and reflections.
