Over 50s in Swansea are to get advice and support on improving their lifestyles and health.
For the first time volunteer peer mentors will visit groups within their communities across Swansea as part of a pilot project funded by the Welsh Assembly’s Independence and Wellbeing grant.
A group of volunteers from the Swansea Network 50+ will provide information on everything from preventing fractures and falls to getting into employment, volunteering and training.
Other themes covered include physical activity and nutrition, keeping safe inside and outside the home, transport and income maximisation.
The pilot runs until the end of March 2011 and consists of four ‘information fair’ style events, the first of which took place in the Grand Theatre in December 2010.
Organisations such as Age Concern Swansea, Care and Repair Swansea and the Safer Swansea Partnership were involved.
The project has been brought about by Swansea Council in partnership with the Network 50+, Swansea Health Alliance, Age Concern Swansea and the ABMU Health Board.
Peter May, Swansea Council Older People’s Champion, said: “The pilot project reaches out to people in their own communities with information, opportunities, and encouragement so they can strive towards a better quality of life in their older years.
“It attempts to respond to the need identified by older people for clear and specific information in these areas”.
Cllr May added: “Our ageing population has the potential to be a positive resource, but if we don’t act now failing health and loss of independence will pose an enormous challenge for health and social care.
“This scheme will support people aged 50 and over to maintain their own well being and independence.
“It could alleviate some of the future pressures on services but also give people the chance of independent living for as long as possible which is what they tell us they want.”
The next free Wellbeing and Independence 50+ information event will take place at Newton Village Hall on Friday, January 28, 2011 from 10.00am to 12.30pm.
Future events are planned at Forgefach Community Centre in Clydach on 17th February and Gorseinon Institute on 11th March 2011.
Residents seeking further information on the events or the project should contact Kirsty or Ann on 01792 636745.
