Home Care

Support Services for Elderly Patients Living in South East Hampshire

As we age, it’s essential to know that help is available to ensure that you or your loved ones can continue to live independently and comfortably in your own home. In South East Hampshire, there are a variety of services and volunteer programs aimed at supporting elderly individuals. These services cover home care, meals, security, and personal assistance, all designed to provide peace of mind, improve quality of life, and help people manage daily living more easily.

Meals on Wheels (Home Meal Delivery Services)

Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet is essential, but preparing meals can become challenging as we age. Meals on Wheels is a convenient and reliable solution for anyone who is unable to cook for themselves due to illness, disability, or other reasons.

Who is Eligible for Meals on Wheels?

If you are aged 55 or over and live within Hampshire County Council’s area, you may be eligible for Meals on Wheels if you meet any of the following criteria:

• Struggling to cook for yourself: If preparing meals has become difficult, Meals on Wheels provides a simple solution.
• Recovering from a hospital stay: If you've just come out of hospital and need support with meal preparation.
• Carer respite: If you're a Carer and need a break from cooking and meal prep.
• Unwell or experiencing physical/mental difficulties: If health issues are making it difficult to manage cooking, this service can provide nourishing meals directly to your door.
• Difficulty with shopping: If you're unable to get out to the shops, Meals on Wheels will bring meals straight to you.

Meals on Wheels services often include options for hot meals delivered daily or frozen meals that can be stored and reheated. Some services even cater to specific dietary needs such as low salt, low sugar, or vegetarian options.

For more information, you can contact Hampshire County Council's Adult Services or search online for local providers.

Tele Alarms & Personal Alarm Systems (Home Care Alert Buttons)

As an elderly individual living at home, safety and security are top priorities. Having a personal alarm system can provide peace of mind, ensuring that help is only a button press away in case of an emergency. Many companies offer a variety of alarm services, including pendant alarms and wrist alarms, which can be worn at all times.

Personal Alarms (Pendant or Wrist Alarms)

A personal alarm is a small device that can be worn around your neck (pendant) or wrist (watch) and is connected to a 24/7 monitoring centre. In the event of an emergency or if you feel unwell, simply press the button, and the monitoring centre will immediately alert a family member, neighbour, or healthcare professional, such as a nurse or warden (if you live in sheltered housing).

These alarms are ideal for elderly individuals who may be at risk of falling or experiencing health issues like heart attacks, strokes, or other emergencies. Many systems offer options for a single push-button alert, ensuring you can get help when needed.

One example of a personal alarm system is the SureSafe Personal Alarm. This is a 'friends and family' alarm, meaning that when the button is pressed, the alarm automatically contacts up to three pre-set family or friends' phone numbers to raise the alert. Importantly, this system does not have ongoing monthly fees or monitoring charges, making it a more affordable option for many individuals.

For more information about these systems and to find a solution that works best for you, you can visit local providers online or contact your GP for a referral.

Security and Home Safety

Maintaining a safe and secure home environment is crucial for elderly individuals. Several resources are available to improve security and help prevent accidents:

1. Local Police and Community Support: Hampshire Police and local community safety services offer advice and resources on securing your home, including:

   • Home security checks: A local police officer or community support worker can assess your home’s security and recommend safety measures such as locks, alarms, or lighting.
   • Safe and Well Visits: Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service runs Safe and Well visits to assess fire and general safety in your home, offering fire alarms and safety tips.

2. Telecare and Emergency Alert Services: Some local authorities offer services that include home security systems linked to emergency services. These systems can provide an immediate response if there is a fire, flood, or carbon monoxide leak, ensuring your safety.

3. Locksmith Services: If you are concerned about the security of your doors or windows, local locksmiths can provide home security advice, install new locks, or upgrade your existing ones to ensure your home is safe.

Phone and Virtual Support

There are a range of phone-based services that provide regular support and assistance to elderly individuals, which can help prevent isolation and ensure someone is checking in on you regularly.

1. Age UK Hampshire: Age UK offers a telephone befriending service where volunteers regularly call elderly individuals for a friendly chat and to check on their wellbeing. This service is particularly helpful for those who feel isolated or would appreciate the regular social contact.

   Contact:
   Age UK Hampshire: www.ageuk.org.uk/hampshire
   Telephone: 023 8027 3319

2. Silver Line Helpline: The Silver Line is a free confidential helpline offering support, friendship, and advice to older people. Available 24/7, the Silver Line provides a voice for those who feel lonely or need someone to talk to. The service also offers information about local services, activities, and social care.

   Contact:
   The Silver Line: www.thesilverline.org.uk
   Telephone: 0800 470 8090

3. Virtual GP Appointments and Care Services: Many GP surgeries and healthcare providers now offer virtual consultations, which can be a more convenient way to manage appointments and consultations from the comfort of your home.

Volunteer Services in South East Hampshire

In addition to formal services, there are many volunteer organizations in South East Hampshire that provide crucial support to elderly individuals:

• Voluntary Care Schemes: Many local volunteer organizations offer assistance with shopping, transport, or companionship for elderly people. These volunteer programs are ideal for individuals who need some extra help with everyday tasks but wish to remain living independently.
• Hampshire Volunteers: A network of local volunteer groups provides services like shopping assistance, friendly visits, and short-term respite care for carers. To find a local volunteer service, you can contact your GP surgery, local council, or use the Volunteer Centre Hampshire directory.

Volunteer Centre Hampshire: www.volunteerhampshire.org.uk
Telephone: 01962 857 122

Additional Resources and Information

If you or someone you know is in need of assistance or would like more information about any of the services mentioned, please do not hesitate to contact the following resources:

• Hampshire County Council Adult Services: For information about meal deliveries, personal alarms, and other home care services. Website: www.hants.gov.uk Telephone: 0300 555 1386

• South East Hampshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG): For information about healthcare services, home care, and telehealth options. Website: www.southeasthampshireccg.nhs.uk