Promoting health to older people
NHS Bedfordshire is committed to supporting and helping older adults to continue to live healthy fulfilling lives. This encompasses delaying the onset of ill health, reducing the impact of illness and disability and identifying barriers to healthy living.
The PCT has a co-ordinated programme of action, working alongside professionals and voluntary organisations from across Bedfordshire.
If you would like to find out more please contact:
Jackie Golding on 01525 636975.
Fight flu this winter
It is important to have your flu jab as early as possible in the autumn before flu starts to circulate.
If you are age 65 or over or if you suffer from certain chronic illnesses, you are especially at risk. Flu can lead to more serious illness such as bronchitis and pneumonia, potentially putting you in hospital. The flu virus is always changing so last year’s vaccine won’t protect you.
For further information and to find out dates of flu clinics contact
your GP or Practice Nurse. The flu jab is free and available from early
October.
Physical activity
There is strong evidence to suggest that older people benefit from increasing physical activity.
The Active Bedfordshire Project aims to increase participation in physical activity by building capacity within communities. This will be achieved through the development of a community programme that encompasses education, teaching, organised physical activity and recreational opportunities led by trained, older volunteers, mentors and community leaders.
‘Walk with me’ has been designed to encourage older people to become more active through walking.
For further information about the Active Bedfordshire Project or to participate in the ‘walk with me’ programme please contact the Active Bedfordshire Co-ordinator on 01525 636874.
Bedfordshire Pilgrim Housing Association offers free exercise classes to anyone over the age of 60. For more information call 01234 852173.
Useful links