Advantage summer 2012

Advantage

Age Scotland’s quarterly magazine summer 2012

issue 32

Enjoy an active summer Outing ideas, allotments, walking & the World Congress on Active Ageing

p10: Free Personal & Nursing Care is Ten! p15: Have Your Say on Health p25: Luminate is Coming

Advantage is the Age Scotland magazine that provides information, inspiration and ideas to empower Scotland’s older people, their friends, families and carers.

p 4

News

p 6

Calendar

p 7 Inform p 15 Get Involved p 17 Clubs’ Corner p 18 Going local p 22 Interview p 24 Inspire p 27 Soap Box

If you have news, events or issues that you would like Advantage to cover, please get in touch. We would also welcome ideas on how we might improve the magazine.

Advantage magazine is part funded by grant support from the Scottish Government. Age Scotland aims to ensure that information is accurate at the time of production and cannot be held liable for any errors or omissions.

Email: advantage@agescotland.org.uk Telephone: 0845 833 9313 Write to:

Advantage, Age Scotland Causewayside House 160 Causewayside Edinburgh EH9 1PR

Age Scotland, part of the Age UK family, is an independent charity dedicated to improving the lives of older people in Scotland, within a charitable company limited by guarantee and registered in Scotland. Reg No: 153343 Charity No: SC010100. Registered Office: Causewayside House, 160 Causewayside, Edinburgh EH9 1PR.

ISSN 1747-4515

Advantage One Year On

foreword

e ecutiv x E f e i h ,C David Manion Just over a year ago Advantage was relaunched as single magazine, replacing three separate publications, with a new design look and a more focused mission: to inform, inspire and empower.

Thanks to all of you who responded to our readership survey, we can now say the move has been a resounding success.

have something new to say. We are however looking at how we might develop content on our website and blog, and in our Fact Sheets information library, to build on what we can offer in Advantage. What about interviews with people in power? A great idea!

You’ll find an interview with Joe Fitzpatrick MSP on his Responsible Parking bill on page 22.

As an information source, 94% found it ‘often useful’ or ‘essential.’ As a source of inspiration, celebrating older people and their groups, 79% told us they ‘value it a lot’ or find it ‘invaluable.’ 75% said it was ‘often useful’ or ‘essential’ as a place for getting ideas to help clubs grow and develop, and 85% gave this feedback about Advantage as a source of information about Age Scotland. But would you recommend Advantage to others? An overwhelming 95% said yes, with 5% unsure.

Topics which readers asked that we cover included: gardening, getting on the ‘care ladder’, more on older people’s groups locally and at national level, travel, and dementia services. Over future editions we will draw on this list when commissioning articles, starting with a gardening and allotments feature on page 12. And, as requested, we’ll aim to include as many testimonies as we can, with contact details wherever possible, to allow you to carry on conversations started in Advantage and in our other media.

We asked what kind of articles you would like to see in future editions. While many readers were quite happy with the current mix of articles, we also received some helpful suggestions for future content.

In each mailing of this edition of Advantage we’ve included a copy of ‘The Age Maze,’ a brand new free publication that offers a wealth of information to help you to make the most of later life. If your copy doesn’t include one, or you would like to request more, please call 0845 833 0200 (ask for Georgia) or email publications@agescotland.org.uk.

Could we provide more information to help older people’s groups’ develop? Yes; see page 17 for our new regular ‘Clubs’ Corner’ column. Can we include more information on topics already covered, such as seniors’ playgrounds and pets? We’re happy to revisit issues from time to time, but would need to

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news

the ‘Walk in our shoes’ action (photo courtesy of Jinty Morriso n); Runne tornoway join S n i s te a rs Paulin candid n e a nd J io t c Ele o

Local election puts older people on the map After Scotland’s local elections on May 3rd Labour now has a say in the running of half the administrations in Scotland, there is little change for the SNP or the Conservatives, while the Liberal Democrats have lost out in eight councils.

In Highlands, older people’s issues were brought to the fore by the Highland Senior Citizen’s Network, which lobbied candidates to sign up to its 12-point manifesto. The manifesto, which included calls for the proofing of all decisions for their impact on older people and for an older people’s representative on the Council, was signed by the SNP as a bloc and by many candidates from the other parties. Network Chair Ian McNamara said: “It was a bigger response than we anticipated, and everyone took it seriously.

The next step is to request a meeting with key players on the Council to go through our manifesto point by point.”

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hn

Western Isles Carers, Users and Supporters Network used Age Scotland’s ‘Walk in our shoes, Act on our issues’ campaign pack to great effect, lobbying 18 candidates over four nights. Of the five subsequently elected, three promised firm action to tackle the Network’s top priority issue; poor provision of disabled parking in Stornoway. Network Chair Jinty Morrison said: “This was a great opportunity to get a fresh impetus into a very old issue that WICUSN has been fighting for over many years. We found ‘Walk in Our Shoes’ most useful and inspiring, and it was good to say that Age Scotland was running the campaign nationally as that gave it more credence.”

Age Scotland organised a series of hustings around the country ahead of the local election with representatives from all five main political parties and over 130 older people in attendance.

Senior Policy Officer Callum Chomczuk said: “At the hustings Council candidates heard directly from older people about issues they were concerned with.

Every sitting Councillor who took part was returned so the events proved very worthwhile. Now the real work begins, for both the Charity nationally and groups locally, to hold the Councillors to account for the pledges they made ahead of the election.”

Visit our Blog at http://agescotland.wordpress.com

news

Runners beat heat to complete Marathon Runners Pauline and John Carlyle from Annan beat blistering heat to finish the Edinburgh Marathon on 27th May, completing the 26 mile route in 5 hours and raising over £1000 for Age Scotland by their achievement. The day also saw success for Charity fundraiser Steven Bunch, who ran the half marathon in 1 hour and 39 minutes. Earlier in May the ladies of Team Reablement completed the IAM Women’s 10K in Glasgow, with good times despite atrocious weather.

Age Scotland Fundraiser Alison Payne said: “A massive thank you and well done to all our runners and to the friends, workmates and family who sponsored them: the money they’ve raised will help us to do vital work with and for older people across Scotland. There are lots of running opportunities coming up for people of all abilities, so if you or someone you know could perhaps join the ranks of our running heroes please call 0845 833 9315 or email fundraising@agescotland.org.uk.”

Byres Road Shop

New Glasgow shop is a Byres paradise Age Scotland’s first shop in Glasgow opened in May, on the city’s busy Byres Road. Deputy Shop Manager Julie Martis said: “So far sales are going really well, and we’ve recruited a team of brilliant and enthusiastic volunteers. If the public continues to support us we can go from strength to strength.”

Enterprises’ get Which? endorsement

‘Walk in our shoes, Act on our issues’ Did your local politicians sign a ‘Walk in our shoes, Act on our issues’ pledge? Please share your local campaigning experiences with us: call Doug Anthoney on 0845 833 9313 or email doug.anthoney@agescotland.org.uk.

Age Scotland has a small supply of ‘Walk in our shoes, Act on our issues’ packs left. These are suitable for use with elected Councillors, not just candidates. Contact Doug to request one.

Insurance products sold by Age Scotland Enterprises have been endorsed by ‘Which?’ magazine. Product provider Age UK Enterprises was one of only four companies to make it onto Which?’s Recommended Provider list for Travel Insurance, which to be included, a company must demonstrate a highquality product and above-average customer service.

An investigation by ‘Which?’ to expose hidden fees for policy changes in the home and car insurance market also gave full marks to Age UK Enterprises as one of the very few providers to offer customers the option to pay by monthly instalment at no extra costs, and to make changes to their policies without having to pay an administration fee.

Logan Steele, Age Scotland Enterprises General Manager, said: “We’re really happy with this result.

We want to make sure our customers get what they expect and don’t receive any unpleasant surprises – and it’s great to see that our efforts are recognised by ‘Which?’”.

Find products information at www.agescotland.org.uk/products

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calendar August 2012 12 Aug Walk With Me Challenge – Scotland-wide Do you know of an older person who is missing out on the health and social benefits of walking? If yes, what better way to mark the start of the World Congress on Active Ageing than by encouraging them to walk with you as part of this Scotland-wide Challenge event; whether on a buddy walk, a led, or group walk, or just a short stroll.

For more information, and to sign up for the Challenge, call 01259 218888 or email info@pathsforall.org.uk.

13-17 Aug World Congress on Active Ageing, Glasgow SECC A celebration of diversity and inclusion in active ageing. In the ‘Experience Zone’ you can try out activities including juggling, Nordic walking, dance, functional fitness MOTs, cognition tests and much, much more. You can also enjoy a physical activity performance led by older people and lectures from world experts on active ageing.

Seniors’ and Carers’ Pass is £8 for one day, including refreshments.

Call 0141 331 0123 or register online at www.wcaa2012.com.

September 2012 various Age Scotland Regional Assemblies An opportunity for Age Scotland member groups to share information, debate the big issues for later life and influence Age Scotland’s policy and practice.

See pages 18 to 21 for events in your area.

October 2012 various Age Scotland Regional Assemblies 1-31 Oct Luminate: Scotland’s creative ageing festival Brand new Scotland-wide festival celebrating arts, creativity and ageing, and offering a variety of arts and creative events in local community venues, theatres, galleries, libraries and care homes.

Highlights will be announced online in July with the full programme available from September, including booking arrangements and ticket prices where applicable.

Call 0131 668 8066 to request a programme or visit www.luminatefestival.org.

November 2012 2 Nov Scottish Older People’s Assembly Edinburgh International Conference Centre. 10.30am to 4pm. Free with lunch included.

The theme for this year’s Assembly is the older person’s experience of care, with a keynote speech from Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon MSP. To register an interest in attending call 0131 469 3806 / 3764 or email acfaa@edinburgh.gov.uk.

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Email your events to advantage@agescotland.org.uk

inform

Have you checked your hearing?

One in six people in Scotland is deaf or hard of hearing, but research by charity Action on Hearing Loss Scotland, formerly RNID Scotland, has found that on average people take up to ten years from when they first begin to lose their hearing until they do something about it. In that time many can begin to feel isolated and miss out on conversations with family and friends; sometimes ending up disagreeing with partners because they fail to respond to questions, or falling out with neighbours because they have the television volume up too high. If you recognise yourself in this, you are not alone. The good news is that there are steps to take, and support available, to address hearing loss.

Action on Hearing Loss has developed a hearing check which is available for free online at www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk/hearingcheck, or by calling 0844 800 3838 (charged at local rate.)

Whilst it is not a fully comprehensive hearing test, it can signpost you to steps you may need to take regarding your hearing.

Director of Action on Hearing Loss Scotland, Delia Henry, says: “We want as many people as possible to take our hearing check. The sooner you know whether you have to do something about your hearing the sooner you can stop feeling left out of social situations. I know that hearing loss can be a scary prospect but there is help and support for people that can make a huge difference to their lives.”

One such project is ‘Hear to Help’ which Action on Hearing Loss Scotland runs across three Health Board areas; Greater Glasgow, Tayside and the Borders. Funded by the Scottish Government and the Co-operative, the drop-ins are run by trained volunteers who offer frontline maintenance to NHS hearing-aid users.

Ken Nicholson, who is a double hearing-aid-user, is a lead volunteer in the Greater Glasgow area.

He says: “I recently did some maintenance on the

Ken Nicholson

hearing-aid of a lady who had been unwell. Her daughter told me that, thanks to the hearing-aid maintenance, it was the first time in months that they were able to have a proper conversation. So not only did the lady benefit, but so did her family.

“Being able to communicate with those around us is crucial for our well-being both physically and mentally and it is wonderful to be able to contribute to that.”

Action on Hearing Loss Scotland will be exhibiting at four Age Scotland Regional Assemblies this autumn, in Galashiels, Kilmarnock, Glasgow and Dundee, so if you have concerns or questions about hearing loss, they can answer these and direct you to their local hearing-aid maintenance drop-ins.

Call the Age Scotland Helpline on 0845 125 9732

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inform

Boddam Library

mond o L h c Lo

What can I do this summer?

Loneliness is often associated with the long, dark winter months. However July and August can also be a solitary time for older people when the clubs they regularly attend take a break. Here Advantage offers some suggestions for a more sociable summer.

Use your free bus pass There’s no limit on how often you can use you bus pass (National Entitlement Card), or how far you go within Scotland using it. Places to visit include: • National Parks: Scotland has two, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. For breathtaking scenery, picnic spots and walks to suit all abilities, our parks are hard to beat.

• Museums & Galleries: Scotland’s National Museums offer fun and stimulating days out at low or no cost.

Call Visit Scotland on 0845 859 1006 or email info@visitscotland.com for information about parks, museums and other summer visits, and travel options.

Please check that you are using your most recently issued pass. If you have more than one card, look at the last two digits on the issue number – only the card with the highest issue number will be valid to travel. You can call the telephone number on the back of the card if you need further help.

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Not every part of Scotland is well served by public transport, and using the free pass is not a realistic option for everyone. That’s why Age Scotland is working to persuade our politicians to extend the pass to include community transport, a move that would release funding to develop new routes and improve services.

Go for a walk Walking is free, healthy and suitable for nearly everyone, yet the prospect of it can be daunting for people with a long term condition, who are out of the exercise habit or who simply don’t feel comfortable walking alone.

Here are some tips for getting around such barriers: • Walk with a group: The Paths for All partnership organises weekly ‘health walks’ across Scotland.

These are walks of less than an hour designed for inactive people and led by a trained volunteer.You can find information online at www.pathsforall. org.uk or by calling 01259 218 888.

• Use a pedometer: Worries about ‘overdoing it’ can be a put off when it comes to walking. However a pedometer, a small and lightweight device to measure distance travelled by foot steps taken, can help you to pace yourself, monitor progress and set yourself achievable challenges.

Sign up for e-news on www.agescotland.org.uk

inform • Find suitable routes: By planning your route you can be more confident that it will be manageable and comfortable. Is it important that you avoid hills, for example, or that there are public toilets and seating stops at regular intervals? If you think you have found a good route, share it with others so they can also benefit from your research.

Where can a pedometer take you?

To the moon! Over the last four years Inverclyde Globetrotters, who exercise each week at Inverclyde Leisure’s Waterfront Complex, have tackled virtual walks around the world with the help of Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland. Each week pedometers are handed over and steps recorded along with the distances walked, cycled and rowed during the class and their progress plotted on a map of their route. They’ve been around Italy, across Canada, taken in America’s Route 66, and in January they ‘landed’ on the Moon after a Lunar Trek of 238,857 miles. Duncan Galbraith from the Globetrotters says: “It’s a long walk back and we are hoping that we will find others will step up to the challenge of helping us get home. We’ll be very glad of the company and the extra pairs of feet.” To find out more call 07757 501203 or email ig1@talktalk.net.

Use your library service Libraries can be a great place to spend time; reading newspapers, browsing books and interacting with others. The vast majority of Scottish Councils offer a mobile library service so those who are housebound or geographically isolated don’t miss out. Look up your Council in the phone book or visit your Council’s website for more information.

No ‘shushing!’ - just chatting At Boddam near Peterhead, community group ‘Put the Kettle on’ holds a coffee morning every Tuesday in the local library, one of several coffee mornings that libraries in Aberdeenshire host all year round so that older people can meet and socialise during the week. Councillor Alisan Norrie says: “The coffee mornings play a major role in the council’s commitment to encourage older people to remain active and get involved in their local community.”

If it can happen in Aberdeenshire, why not in other areas? Read more and join the debate at the Age Scotland Blog on http://agescotland. wordpress.com.

Think about summer isolation before your group takes a break

Coffee and cake Contact the Elderly organises monthly Sunday afternoon tea parties for small groups of older people aged 75 and over who live alone. It’s free to join and they have groups across Scotland. As a member you would be collected from your door by a volunteer driver who will take you to the host’s home for the afternoon. Call 0800 716 543 or email info@contact-the-elderly.org.uk.

Local clubs organisers need and deserve a good summer break, so if you are one please don’t feel guilty about taking yours. There are, however, simple things that clubs can do before finishing for summer that can help ensure members don’t become isolated in their absence. You could produce a news-sheet of special events happening in the surrounding area with information about any groups in the area which continue during the summer. A little encouragement might also be enough to get individual members meeting up in smaller groups in local cafes and hotels.

Call 118 202 Directory Enquiries and donate 9p for each 40p call

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inform

Free Personal and Nursing Care is ten years old The 2nd July 2012 marked a decade since what is arguably the most groundbreaking piece of legislation implemented by the Scottish Parliament, namely Free Personal and Nursing Care (FPNC) for the Elderly, came into effect. Age Scotland Chief Executive David Manion reflects.

This policy has been successful in shifting the balance of care, enabling more people than ever to receive the care they need in their own homes.

Growth in demand more than surpasses the percentage growth in Scotland’s older population and is helping delay admission into residential accommodation and acute inpatient care. This is not only what older people tell us they want; it is also in the long term the most cost-effective option.

However if you require a care package, your Council tends to decide what kind of care you need, and if you meet their criteria under FPNC. This is delivered free of charge and in many circumstances the system works well for older people. But we all know Council-directed services aren’t suitable for everyone. Services that involve ‘that little bit extra’, or are more attuned to an individual’s needs, can be subject of charges.

That is why I am delighted to see the Scottish Government, NHS and CoSLA, the umbrella body for Scotland’s Councils, have adopted a renewed focus on integration, prevention and personalisation. This will provide a real chance to tackle the cost shunting between NHS Boards and Councils and address the breakdown in care packages which lead to older people going back into hospital unnecessarily. With cross-party and cross-institutional consensus on the need for change (if not the detail) we will never

have a better opportunity to deliver an integrated, outcomes-focused system for Scotland’s older people. You can read more about this on page 15.

The recently introduced Self Directed Support (Scotland) Bill will potentially revolutionises the way we think about social care, by giving the service user more control over the care he or she receives; including who is to provide their services, and how and when they are to be provided. It is inevitable that there will be poor media coverage if it is discovered that someone has used direct payments given to them via Self Directed Support to go to a concert, or go on holiday, or do something else that could be viewed as frivolous. But if activities such as these deliver positive outcomes for service users and their families, then great!

The challenges around delivering on integration, prevention and personalisation are plentiful, but ten years on from Free Personal and Nursing Care I believe we are well placed to finish Lord Sutherland’s work. However tough decisions will need to be made to ensure users interests are put first, and not those of the big-battalion service providers. Only then will we ensure we have a health and social care system that truly meets the needs of our ageing population.

Free Personal and Nursing Care Know the score The NHS automatically provides free nursing care for those living at home. Personal care, which includes help with tasks such as bathing, dressing, and getting in and out of bed, is free to everyone aged 65 and older in Scotland and is provided by your Council.

Here’s where it can get a bit messy. ‘Domestic assistance,’ which includes tasks such as housework, shopping and making beds, is not automatically free and your Council will use its charging procedures to work out what it considers to be a ‘reasonable’ amount for you to pay for it.

10 Download factsheets at www.agescotland.org.uk/publications

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In making an assessment of your ability to pay your Council should look at your income after deduction of housing costs and Council Tax. It should consider any extra costs that you have because of a condition or disability, so you should explain any such costs when you are being assessed – it’s worth noting that Councils cannot count the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance as income when working out what you have to pay. CoSLA, the umbrella body for Scotland’s Councils, publishes guidance on Community Care Charging including a recommendation that Councils disregard the first £10,000 of your savings in looking at ability to pay. But it’s guidance, not law, which leaves room for 32 different ways of making an assessment across Scotland!

Once a decision about your care needs has been made you should be given clear information about your charges and how they are assessed. Charges should not be made until you have been told how much you will have to pay. You have the right to ask for a review of your charges if you think they are not reasonable. Some people with mental health problems are exempt, for example, and Councils are encouraged not to charge people with terminal illnesses. If the Council agrees that you need it, you can get four weeks free care, including help with shopping and housework following a stay in hospital; either overnight or after surgery as a day patient.

You may be able to claim welfare benefits to help meet the cost of care and support you need at home. The best advice is to get your Council or a

local advice agency such as a Citizens Advice Bureau to carry out a full benefits check for you as you may be entitled to help with Disability Living Allowance or Attendance Allowance or means-tested benefits such as Pension Credit, Housing Benefit and help with Council Tax. The Age Scotland Helpline 0845 125 9732 can refer you to the Pension Service, which can visit you at home, check your benefit entitlements and help you to make benefit claims.

The Carer’s Story Linda cares for her mother, who has vascular dementia. While the family has good working relationships with health and social care professionals, her experience of buying services not included as ‘free’ within the policy has been less positive. “I became worried that mum was being short changed when it came to cleaning and laundry,” says Linda. “We were being billed for hourlong visits but sometimes staff from the company contracted to provide the service were only there for 15 minutes, not long enough to do the job properly.”

There were also concerns over incorrect billing.

Linda believes the policy “has made a difference,” but would like stronger checks and balances put in place, particularly for fee based additional services.

“Domestic assistance contracts in both the public and private care sector are extremely lucrative and require to be closely monitored by a well resourced independent body” she says.

Call 0845 125 9732 for a FPNC factsheet 11

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Allotments for all ailments No more the exclusive domain of pottering pensioners in bunnets, allotments, says Lindsay Scott, are increasingly attracting younger families and becoming true settings for inter-generational interaction. And they’re good for you too!

In the last decade the growing demand for environmentally-friendly, organic produce has seen many younger and middle-aged couples without gardens of their own clamouring to get a piece of land to tend. As people have become more aware of environmental issues, and the increasing prices of imported fruit and vegetables, so the popularity of the allotment has increased.

For those not in the know, an allotment is a small parcel of land rented, normally by a local authority, to an individual for a nominal annual fee for the purpose of growing food crops. Although allotments were first mentioned in Elizabethan England, in Scotland the word first appears in the 19th century, being found on maps dating back to 1851. There is no fixed standard size but the most common plot is around 300 square yards or 250 square metres.

Allotments were first recognised formally by the Allotments (Scotland) Act 1892. Councils got involved in providing plots during the First World War because of a food crisis and during World War II in the Dig for Victory campaign. Food rationing kept the demand for allotments and home grown foods high until rationing ended in 1954 then nationally they went into decline with the number of plots falling from 80,000 to just over 6,000 within half a century.

As recently as the millennium, allotments were still a low priority for many Local Authorities. So much so that today they are the most exclusive clubs in Scotland, with thousands waiting up to a decade to gain entry, according to the Scottish Allotment Gardens Society (SAGS). Waiting lists stretch to nine

Irene and Gerry

years in Glasgow, eight in Edinburgh and three in both Stirling and Fife. Gardeners requesting a plot in Aberdeen and Dundee can expect to wait two years before they are successful. But those who have one know how to get the most out of it.

Irene and Gerry Welsh from Stenhousemuir, who are both retired and have a full-sized plot high on a hill overlooking the Forth Valley and the Ochil Hills at Bantaskine in Falkirk, often find themselves torn between the allotment’s pros, such as the wonderful view and the satisfaction that comes from doing something constructive, and its cons; wrestling with weeds, shooing off predatory pigeons, keeping out hungry bunnies and fighting a never-ending battle with hordes of insects seemingly intent on ruining all their best efforts.

Irene says: “People are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of doing some manual labour outdoors in the fresh air, and the idea of growing your own food is appealing because there is no packaging and no food miles. You know exactly what you put into growing it and what you’re going to get out.

“We look forward to coming up here because there’s such a mix of people – families with young children, middle aged couples and retirees such as ourselves.

The whole atmosphere keeps you feeling young.”

12 Visit our World Congress pages at www.agescotland.org.uk

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Gerry says: ““We’ve worked hard all our lives and the thing we dreaded the most was having nothing to do when we retired, becoming couch potatoes watching daytime television. That’s why when the opportunity to have an allotment arose we grabbed it with both hands.”

“The main benefit of doing such regular strengthening and stamina activities is the positive effect on cognition, in particular, problem-solving and memory – in fact, exercise of this nature twice a week can also help stave off dementia in older people already showing signs of cognitive decline” she concludes.

“I feel fitter now than I have for many years and much less stressed. I used to be badly affected by rheumatoid arthritis but now Irene and I do ballroom dancing, yoga and Tai Chi as well as working the allotment, and we’ve both lost weight we didn’t need to be carrying.”

Local Authorities are required by law to provide allotment sites and CoSLA, the umbrella body for Scotland’s councils, encourages its members to acquire, manage and develop more land for allotments. So why not get your name down for one now – you won’t regret it.

But that’s not all. Dr Dawn Skelton, Professor of Ageing and Health at Glasgow Caledonian University says: “The tasks you perform on an allotment, such as digging, raking and riddling, are all repetitive actions that over time strengthen muscle. And, any regular strengthening activities help the body in several ways.

Find out more by visiting the Scottish Allotment Gardens Society: www.sags.org.uk.

“They help produce a burst of growth hormone, essential for maintenance of bone and muscle quality, and gradually lead to a decrease in the amount of the stress hormone cortisol, which, whilst necessary for reducing inflammation, in larger quantities causes fat gain and increases depression and bone loss.

Correction: Power of Pets Advantage would like to apologise for an error in the article ‘The Power of Pets’ in issue 31, which wrongly stated that Care Homes in Scotland were legally obliged to accept pets.

However CareHome website identifies over 500 ‘pet friendly’ care homes in Scotland. For more information visit www.carehome.co.uk or call the Age Scotland Helpline on 0845 125 9732.

Call the Age Scotland Helpline on 0845 125 9732 13

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Staying in control David Borrowman, Managing Partner at The Caesar and Howie Group, looks at how an Advance Directive helps families.

It is settled law in Scotland that adults who have legal capacity must consent to medical treatment. Many adults seek to influence their treatment and it is not especially unusual for an adult to refuse a particular treatment for whatever reason – perhaps feeling that side effects might be worse than any curative effects.

But this right is compromised where the illness is such that the person loses the ability to communicate his or her wishes to medical staff or close family.

We have to face the fact that many of us will die from an illness which we know is terminal and where the symptoms will cause us to lose the power to communicate in the latter stages of that illness.

Most of us will have particular wishes as to how our treatment should proceed, with many not wanting intervention such as resuscitation, where that might only extend life briefly.

The way to get over this loss of communication is to have your wishes written down in advance in a straightforward legal document called an ‘Advance Directive’, often known as a ‘Living Will’. Such

14 Call 0845 833 0200 to donate

documents are addressed to doctors and loved ones and state the person’s treatment preferences in those last stages of illness. Most people want all pain killing treatment to continue but when death is very close anyway, reject interventionist treatment such as life support systems, tube feeding and resuscitation. But you can say what you like in an Advance Directive, and I know of one client who wanted permanent continuation of all possible treatments and stated that clearly.

The main thing is you are passing on in writing what you want. This is a massive help to those closest to you. They will be the people doctors will be dealing with in making decisions about your treatment. An Advance Directive gives your loved ones guidance to make the decisions with doctors that you would have wanted. This removes the fear and worry for relatives about ‘doing the right thing’ at a stressful time for everybody. In our experience older people who complete these documents usually feel a sense of relief and comfort – they feel they have done what they can to guide their loved ones.

And remember, most pensioners can have these documents prepared free or at reduced cost under the Legal Advice and Assistance scheme. Don’t wait till illness strikes. Make an Advance Directive now.

Get Involved

Health and social care – get your voice heard!

The Scottish Government has now opened its consultation on legislation to integrate health and social care services. This runs till 31st July and you can find information on the Government’s website at: www.scotland.gov.uk/Consultations/Current.

Age Scotland is keen to hear your views about health and social care services; be it the cost of residential accommodation, the lack of public transport to get you to appointments, or simply a poor quality service.

If you are interested in sharing your views contact our Senior Policy and Parliamentary Officer Callum Chomczuk at callum.chomczuk@agescotland.org.uk or on 0845 521 2457. Age Scotland is also holding a number of local consultation events. Please check the Going Local section, pages 18 to 21, to find out what is happening in your area.

The Government’s plan on health and social care integration legislation will not include the creation of a new body that merges NHS and Council social care services. Instead, the main characteristics of the new system will be: • Reform of the current Community Health Partnerships, making them the joint responsibility of the NHS and Councils, as well as accountable to the government and Council leaders.

• NHS Boards and Councils required to produce integrated budgets for older people’s services to bring an end to the ‘cost-shunting’ that currently exists.

• A smaller proportion of resources, in terms of money and staff, would be directed towards institutional care, with more resources invested in community provision.

Age Scotland supports of the overall direction of travel set out by the Government and believes that significant progress has been made. Now we will be seeking assurance that lessons from past incidences of failed partnership working are learned, so that Councils and the NHS are clear about the outcomes they are working toward and have unambiguous, realistic plans and timescales for achieving them.

Say no to bad neighbourhood design Age Scotland has long been concerned that bad neighbourhood design is a major cause of isolation among older people, indeed this was one of the reasons we launched the Walk in our shoes, Act on our issues’ campaign pack in April.

Now a major study by Inclusive Design for Getting Outdoors (I’DGO), a partnership of the Universities of Edinburgh, Warwick, and Salford, has shown just how important good design is to older people’s health and wellbeing.

Photos © John McGonagle / Inclusive Design for Getting Outdoors (I’DGO) with thanks to Joan Turner and Violet Laidlaw.

continued overleaf...

Visit our Blog for news & views: http://agescotland.wordpress.com 15

G.I. Top tips The findings, which were launched in May at the Ending Isolation by Design Conference hosted by Age Scotland, I’DGO and Planning Aid for Scotland, show that a well designed neighbourhood improves older people’s level and range of activities and increases their life satisfaction. Easy pedestrian access to local shops, services and green spaces doubles an older person’s chances of achieving recommended levels of ‘healthy walking.’ Good paths, accessible open space and plentiful seats, toilets and greenery, make a huge difference to their ability to get out and about.

However the study, involving work with 4,350 older people in Scotland and other parts of the UK, also found older people are often frustrated by poorly designed amenities such as road crossings and public toilets that have been badly installed and inadequately maintained. Features designed to aid inclusion, such as tactile paving and intelligent road crossings, can be poorly placed and many older people simply don’t know what they are for and how they work.

‘ Ending Isolation by design’ conference round-up The event was more than just a platform to launch the I’DGO research - it was a springboard for empowering older people to influence local planning decisions.

Here’s a round-up of top tips, thought provoking quotes and key contacts from the day. You can find more at www.agescotland.org.uk/campaign.

Quotes of the day “Planners need to get away from tick box exercises. They need to change their thought process and think more about quality of design.”

Sarah Boyack MSP, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Local Government and Planning “In countries where the streets are more hazardous such as Italy and Greece, falls rates are actually lower. Could it be that where we think we are safe we take less care, and so are actually more likely to fall?” Dawn Skelton, Glasgow Caledonian University “Not everyone wants a ramp - people want a choice of a ramp or steps. We met two older men who liked to time themselves going up steps for fitness and fun.” Rita Newton, University of Salford

When you are lobbying locally, be prepared, focus on one issue at a time, and stay calm! Greg McCracken, Policy Officer, Age Scotland.

Anyone can comment on any planning application, but timing is critical. Of all the stages in the planning process, the Main Issues Report is often the best time to influence. David Wood, Planning Aid for Scotland And some tips from delegates: • Make use of your Community Council - by law they have to be consulted on planning decisions • Use emails and an online blog to create a strong community network – they worked for us and now we have street parties together!

• Follow through and be patient – it can take time, sometimes years!

• Be forceful but make sure it’s controlled emotion • Financial arguments can be effective • Where possible, invite yourself to public meetings • Talk about how others in the community will be affected, not just yourself • Use video to good advantage - when we showed them footage of a lorry parking on the path it made the difference • Get input from a professional such as an architect • Once you find the right person in the Council and establish a clear channel of communication with them, doors can open

Contacts Inclusive Design for Getting Outdoors: Researching the design of outdoor spaces for older people.

Tel: 0131 651 5833 Email: idgo@ed.ac.uk Visit: www.idgo.ac.uk Planning Aid for Scotland: An independent and impartial organisation, working to help people shape their communities and improve the way people engage with planning.

Tel: 0131 220 9730 Email: office@planningaidscotland.org.uk Visit: www.planningaidscotland.org.uk

16 Join our campaigns at www.agescotland.org.uk/campaign

Clubs’ Corner

Clubs’ Corner:

A mission to success You are involved in running a club or older people’s service. People like what you do and there’s a buzz about the organisation. But there are also uncomfortable questions that you are having trouble answering. Are the following familiar?

• We’re so dependent on a few energetic committee members - what will happen if they leave?

• Costs keep going up - how will we manage financially in the future?

• The need is so huge – how do we cope with ever increasing demand?

In coming editions ‘Clubs Corner’ will try to answer these questions and more. We’ll start with the basics – your club’s mission and vision.

It’s common for community organisations to spend all their time and energies on day to day management. However in the long term these efforts will be undermined if the club does not have a clear sense of what it is about. Creating a mission and a vision statement can help.

A mission sets out in clear and concise language why the organisation exists, what it is trying to achieve and how it will go about achieving it. The vision sets out the circumstances in which the organisation’s mission will be considered achieved.

Writing them will have multiple benefits. People involved in the club will have a clear, shared understanding of what it is for and why it matters.

Potential supporters, from grant makers to individual donors, will be more likely to understand and have confidence in it. Where people and resources are scarce, reference to the mission will make it easier to set priorities and make hard choices. You will also be better able to evaluate the difference you are making and share your successes.

As important as the statements themselves will be the process by which they are created. Everyone who has a stake in your organisation should have an

opportunity to contribute, including committee members, staff, volunteers and service users. If the process is positive, with people feeling that they have not been rushed and that their opinions been listened to, it can have a tremendous motivational effect. Your local Age Scotland Development Officer will be able to advise you further on how to go about this (see ‘Going Local’ pages for contact details.)

Your mission and vision statements will need to fit with the purpose, aims and objectives set out in your organisation’s constitution. The language will differ – constitutions by necessity need to include some legalese - however the meaning should be fundamentally the same.

If your organisation has, or would like to have, charitable status, your mission – and constitution – will need to be consistent with one or more charitable purposes under Scots law. These are fairly broad and most voluntary organisations have little trouble accommodating them. You can find out more by calling the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator on 01382 220446 or visiting www.oscr.org.uk.

Finally, your organisation’s mission and vision should be reviewed every few years, as social, political and technological shifts can change the need for your services. You might even find that your mission has been accomplished – best keep that champagne in the fridge in case!

More for member groups at www.agescotland.org.uk/community 17

going local e west h t m fro news

ton L iz M o r

o Largs s ready to go t Playbuster

Active ageing goes west Member group Forward@fifty gave their first major conference, on 23rd May in Hamilton, an active ageing theme. The day included speakers from British Heart Foundation and The Disconnected Mind, a research project studying cognitive ageing differences across the population. Active workshops included; bowls, dance, painting, pottery and music.

Orbiston Neighbourhood Centre has embarked on a new project, part funded by Age Scotland, to encourage older residents in Bellshill to get up, get out and get active. They can now access a range of courses in flower arranging, dance, singing, carpet bowls, exercise and IT and the internet. Sheena Bowman, Chair of ONC said: “The grant has enabled us to increase the scope of our activities and offer residents the opportunity to do something different.”

Resident Liz Morton said: “I really enjoy my flower arranging class, tea, a gab and a lovely arrangement to take home; what more could you ask for?”

A Rutherglen gathering An ‘on the spot’ transcription service piloted at a West Region Network event on 7th June in Rutherglen has proved a huge hit. More than 60 participants from 7 Local Authority areas saw speakers’ words, and their own questions, appear on screen in almost real time.

Development Officer Charlie Murphy said: “The service was aimed at helping people with hearing impairment, but was also appreciated by others as they could remind themselves of the context of the speakers’ comments.” Contributions on the day were from Healthcare Improvement Scotland, the Age Scotland Campaigns Team, and Age Scotland Enterprises.

Grants galore ASRA, a minority ethnic community centre in North West Glasgow that works with older and disabled people and their carers, has received an Age Scotland grant to buy IT equipment. Manager Ramzan Shah said: “We are grateful to Age Scotland for this support, which will allow us to offer more learners an opportunity to improve their computing skills.” ASRA also offers services including chiropody, welfare rights and form-filling, and classes including sewing and English language.

‘The Ripe Bunch’ in Inverclyde received a grant towards the cost of its annual programme of educational trips and workshops, including museums visits, backstage trips to Scottish Opera and Scottish Ballet, talks and workshops.

50 older people and volunteers from ‘Playbusters’ in Glasgow had a great day out in Largs thanks to an Age Scotland grant. Regional Trustee Bill Martin joined them for a photo-call (above) as they prepared to set off.

To contact ASRA, ‘Playbusters’ or ‘The Ripe Bunch’, please call Development Officer Charlie Murphy.

Dates for your diary 27th JUL: Health and Social Care Panel Renfield St Stephens, 260 Bath Street, Glasgow.

Contact Charlie (details below).

14th SEP: The Big Event: Active ageing fun in South Lanarkshire. Hamilton Palace Sports Ground, 10am-2pm, call Sheena McKay on 01698 454104 20th SEP: West Region Assembly Premier Inn, Ballater Street, Glasgow, call your local Age Scotland team.

20th SEP: Living Well St Andrews Church, Airdrie, 10am-3pm, call Voice of Experience on 01236 758855 23rd SEP: Living Well Newtown Hall, Cumbernauld, 10am-3pm, call Voice of Experience on 01236 758855

Your local Age Scotland team Linda Anderson (Renfrewshire, Lanarkshire) 01355 279 929 Charlie Murphy (Glasgow, Dunbartonshire, Inverclyde) 0141 427 5145

18 Text AGES10 £5 to 70070 and donate £5 to Age Scotland

going local A network first The Douglas Arms Hotel in Castle Douglas was buzzing when members from the South gathered for their first Joint Network meeting on 1st May. Participants from Newton St Boswells to Newton Stewart came together to share experiences and influence development of Age Scotland’s work.

Gerry Power, from the Scottish Government’s Joint Improvement Team, spoke about the ‘Reshaping Care’ and ‘Change Fund’ initiatives. Tricia Watt from Girvan Age Concern said: “It was informative and great to meet different groups, brilliant, thank you all.” John White, Chair of D&G Over 50s Group said: “Gerry Power’s presentation was excellent and informative, the best I’ve heard yet on the future of older people.”

Dates for your diary 24th JUL: Health and Social Care Panel Ayrshire Broomlands & Bourtreehill Age Concern, 7 Lower Vennel, Bourtreehill South, Irvine 11am-12pm.

Contact Heather (details below).

25th JUL: Health and Social Care Panel Dumfries and Galloway St George’s Church Hall, Dumfries 10am-11am.

Contact Morag (details below).

26th JUL: Health and Social Care Panel Galashiels The Focus Centre, Livingstone Place TD1 1DQ from 11 am – 2 pm. Contact Morag.

2nd AUG: Ayrshire Network Meeting 10.30am. Broomlands & Bourtreehill Age Concern Building, Irvine. Contact Heather.

10th SEP: Age Scotland Assembly The Focus Centre, Livingstone Place, Galashiels.

Contact Morag.

13th SEP: Age Scotland Assembly Douglas Arms Hotel, Castle Douglas.

Contact Morag.

19th SEP: Age Scotland Assembly The Park Hotel, Kilmarnock. Contact Heather 30th OCT: Creative Arts Festival, Stranraer.

Contact Morag.

news from the south

Floral Art r eady

for the Titanic Ball

Titanic success for Dalbeattie Floral Art Club A Titanic Ball on 20th April was the first opportunity Dalbeattie Floral Art Club to showcase work supported by an Age Scotland grant. The club enables older people to get together and enjoy floral craft, the fruits of which are displayed locally in venues such as care homes and day centres. Age Scotland’s Morag Halliday said: “The club was finding that what it could offer members was becoming very limited due to lack of money, with planned outings to famous gardens for inspiration being possible only for the few. We were thrilled to be able to fund a programme of outreach activities for the year that will enable the club to become fully inclusive.”

In October the club will take part in a creative arts event in Stranraer, part of Luminate: Scotland first national arts and ageing festival.

Your local Age Scotland team Morag Halliday (Dumfries & Galloway, Scottish Borders) 01387 251036 Heather Baillie (Ayrshire) 01563 528 441

More local news at www.agescotland.org.uk/localnews 19

news from the north

going local

unshine Club to Strath S y a d h rt i 2nd B Happy

The MacDuff Network meeti n

g

Membership update

Success for groups Well done to Moray Retired Persons Friendship Centre, which has successfully campaigned for extra Disabled Parking spaces at the Moray College and is now seeking additional ones at Elgin Town Hall. The Centre, sustained by a team of 12 hard working committee members, offers three weekly and four monthly activities in addition to three outings a year. Visitors to Moray who would like to join in any of the events should call Mike Crossland on 01343 543962. Congratulations also go to Macduff Old Folks Association, which recently organised the first ‘Soup and Sweet’ event in its newly refurbished Hall using equipment partfunded by an Age Scotland grant.

Age Scotland Regional Trustee Brenda Nicolson, and Resource Worker Christine Anderson, joined Ullapool ‘Serve Our Seniors’ in celebrating their 3rd birthday. Brenda and the local Development Officer also attended the AGM and 2nd birthday of the ‘Strath Sunshine Club’ in Rothiemurchus, near Aviemore.

Your local Age Scotland team Suzy Gentle (Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Moray, Orkney, Shetland) 01309 673455 Jo Cowan (Highland, Argyll & Bute, Eilean Siar) 01855 821 809

Welcome to new member groups; Deveron Care Concern in Banff, Disability 2 Opportunity, and Monymusk Seniors. In Argyll and Bute membership has more than doubled in the past 6 months, welcoming in groups from South Kintyre, Dunoon, Helensburgh, Bute, Mull and Tiree. Eileen McCrory from Helensburgh and Lomond Carers said: “We joined to gain more knowledge, share experience and increase the support base for older carers. Since joining, we have been awarded a grant to put on two tea dances, which will help carers to become more involved in physical activities and to make new friendships.”

Grants awarded in the past few months have had a celebratory feel to them with mainland trips, outings and Jubilee celebrations well to the fore.

Getting together Network meetings, which allow local older people’s groups to share information, ideas and issues with each other, local supporting partners, and the Age Scotland team, ran successfully in Inverness, Forres, Macduff, Tarbert, Dunoon and Helensburgh. Forres participant Mike Crossland said: “I learned quite a few things and it was useful to hear from other groups what they do.”

The vital role of these local services, groups and forums in combating isolation for older people was evident at all meetings. In Argyll and Bute shared aspiration for better communication with and between groups will be supported by a new newsletter from the Argyll Voluntary Action’s Reshaping Care for Older People team.

20 Email your news to advantage@agescotland.org.uk

going local Falkirk partnership is a cut above In Going Local there are always Age Scotland grants to announce, and activities funding by the Charity to celebrate. Readers could be misled, however, into thinking that the role of Age Scotland’ s Community Development Team is to travel the length and breadth of Scotland with a suitcase of money in the car boot! In truth this only one, although a very valuable, part of a Development Officer’s work.

A long running partnership between Age Scotland and member Age Concern Falkirk illustrates this wider role. Development Officer Doug McLellan is currently helping the group to evaluate and examine options to expand its Healthy Toenail Cutting Service. This service, delivered in partnership with NHS Forth Valley, aims to provide a cost-effective service to older people who struggle to cut their otherwise healthy toenails. It’s now in its second pilot year with over 50 regular clients.

Doug says: “We’ve had a productive working relationship with Age Concern Falkirk for several years. At the moment the focus is on ensuring the pilot Toenail Cutting Service can meet the needs of older people in the Falkirk area, and that involves work with the management committee to make sure the organisation is prepared for expansion, has enough funding and recruits the volunteers it needs to deliver a great service.”

A crucial aspect of the support Age Scotland offers member groups is help to ensure they have strong and effective voluntary management committees.

Previously Doug helped Age Concern Falkirk to adopt a new constitution, following a realisation by the group that the previous one was a bit dated and no longer reflected its activities or aspirations. He says: “I worked with the committee to draft and refine the new constitution, and helped them to get it approved by the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator and ratified at the Age Concern Falkirk AGM in March.” Doug also assisted the committee in recruiting a Treasurer, first finding a suitable candidate and then facilitating their interview. “This was a big step for the committee as it was the first time they had recruited a Treasurer not already known to them” says Doug. He also attends the group’s monthly committee meetings as often as possible, ensuring continuity of support.

east e h t m news fro Committee member and volunteer Carolanne Brockie (L) with Sheena McGregor (R) from NHS Forth Valley who is seconded to the toenail cutting service.

Margaret Greenhill, Age Concern Falkirk Chair, says: “Thank you to Age Scotland and Doug for guiding the Committee through the updating of its constitution and the resulting changes. We are grateful that information and support is always there when we ask for it.”

The relationship has been mutually beneficial.

Participating in the Charity’s events led Jean Campbell, a former Chair of Age Concern Falkirk, to put herself forward successfully for election as a Regional Trustee. And when the Scottish Government wanted to learn more about the understanding older people have of Self-Directed Support, Age Concern Falkirk partnered Age Scotland to set up a focus group on the topic. Findings from this focus group have directly influenced the Self-Directed Support Bill currently going through the Scottish Parliament.

For more information about the Toenail Cutting Service contact Doug McLellan (details below).

Dates for your diary 26th SEP: Age Scotland Assembly : Livingston (venue to be confirmed). Contact Doug.

10th OCT: Age Scotland Assembly : Dundee West Park Conference Centre. Contact Douglas.

Your local Age Scotland team Douglas Macnaughtan (Fife, Dundee, Angus) 01324 717 079 Doug McLellan (Edinburgh, Lothians, Falkirk) 0131 315 3158 Carole Anderson (Perth & Kinross, Stirling, Clackmannanshire) 01577 864 658

Call 118 202 Directory Enquiries and donate 9p for each 40p call 21

interview

Taking on the pavement parkers Parliament. This follows a previous Bill introduced

by Ross Finnie. “I supported Ross’s Bill, and when he didn’t get re-elected I felt it was too important an issue to drop and took it on,” says Joe. But is his a lone voice in the Parliament? “There’s a lot of support from MPS across the parties. Many, like me, have experience of constituents raising this issue, and know that under current law such cases can be difficult and time consuming to resolve.”

zp Joe Fit

SP atrick M

“You MUST NOT park partially or wholly on the pavement in London” says the Highway Code. But what about everywhere else?

MSP Joe FitzPatrick is calling for Scotland to follow London’s example and ban pavement parking.

Interview by Doug Anthoney Too often people who park on the pavement say “Terribly sorry, but I’m in too much of a hurry to park somewhere else.” This excuse doesn’t wash with Joe FitzPatrick. “One of my consituents in Dundee couldn’t even use his mobilty scooter because of someone parking on a dropped kerb. Eventually the problem got fixed, but it took action by the Council and Hillcrest Housing Association, and while this long and drawn outprocess was taking place, he was virtually a prisoner in his own home.”

Age Scotland shares Joe’s concern that irresponsible parking is making it harder for older people to get out and about, and is part of a Responsible Parking Alliance that is supporting him to get a Private Member’s Bill through the Scottish

Joe is determined that lessons are learned from the experience of the previous Bill. “It put the onus on Councils to ‘line and sign’ no-parking areas, but in the consultation many Local Authorities were worried about the cost of enforcement, and other groups had concerns the law wouldn’t be clear enough. That’s why I’m proposing a blanket ban on pavement parking, similar to London.”

“A big problem with the law here is that it’s unclear, and it’s difficult to police,” says Joe. Currently it is illegal to drive on the pavement, but not to park there, although the Highway Code advises that drivers should not do it. And while Councils can prohibit parking in a particular place, they first must go through a time-consuming notification and consultation process. “The Bill would take enforcement of pavement parking out of the courts and put it on a similar footing to other parking officences, making it easier for Councils to tackle it,” Joe continues.

But is there good evidence that London’s is the example to follow? “People there tell me that it’s now just accepted there,” says Joe. He sees new legislation as necessary to raise public awareness of how damaging to other people’s lives and liberty irresponsible parking can be. “Most drivers will realise that it’s just not acceptable, and for the hard core who don’t care the law can be used to put a stop to their anti-social behaviour.”

22 More about policy at www.agescotland.org.uk/policy

interview

Joe sees the proble m

first hand

Consultation on the proposed Bill, which aims to put in place Scotland-wide restrictions on double parking, parking at dropped kerbs and parking at raised crossings, runs until the end of July. “A ban like this is challenging legislation to get right,” says Joe, “so it’s important that people repond to the consultation to help make sure we do.” So far there have been well over 200 responses. “These have been overwhelmingly supportive. Many people have come forward with their personal experiences of having an accident, or a near miss, due to antisocial parking; either because they were forced to walk on the road because of a car blocking the kerb, or they had a fall on a pavement damaged by parking.”

So it’s good news then: antisocial pavement parking will be banished forever? Not yet.

“Getting time for MSPs to consider the Bill will be a big challenge as there is a lot of competing Parliamentary business,” says Joe. “The more supportive consultation responses we get, the easier it will be to get time, so if Advantage readers care about this issue but haven’t yet responded, I would encourage them not to miss this chance.” Individual members of the public can make a difference. “It was one of my constituents, a disability campaigner called Erik Cramb, who really made me aware of how big a problem irresponsible pavement parking can be and motivated me to do something about it,” says Joe.

After the consultation closes the next step will be to look at what people have said and see how the Bill can be improved. “Private Members’ Bills can be tricky, as a lone MSP doesn’t have the resources of the civil service to help prepare it,” says Joe. “Help so far from the Responsible Parking Alliance has however been invaluable.”

Have your say on pavement parking!

Take part in the Responsible Parking Bill consultation by writing to: Joe FitzPatrick MSP, M5.12 The Scottish Parliament Edinburgh EH99 1SP Or by visiting http://joefitzpatrick.net/ parkingbill/parking-bill-consultation/

Text AGES10 £5 to 70070 and donate £5 to Age Scotland 23

inspire

Susan and Richard

Active ageing the Norway Nordic Walking is one of Europe’s fastest growing forms of physical activity and is particularly suited to people aged 50 and older. You walk using a pair of lightweight, specially designed poles that provide great support while also increasing the effectiveness of the exercise.

Age Scotland’s sister charity Age Cymru runs a Nordic Walking programme with funding from the Welsh Government, and will be sharing its experience at the World Congress for Active Ageing in Glasgow this August. Over fifty volunteers have been recruited and trained to deliver Nordic Walking opportunities to people in their locality. Thousands of older people across Wales have benefited from taking part in the walks with many commenting not only on how their health and fitness has improved but also on how much they enjoy being in the outdoors, meeting lots of new people and making new friends.

Molly’s story “Nordic Walking is a great fun activity, everyone on the course was really friendly. It was great to get out of the house meet some new people and make some new friends. We even went for coffee after our walks. I really enjoyed the course and found that my technique improved each week.

“My hips and back are greatly improved and I can feel the benefits to my heart and lungs. My breathing is much better and I am walking much more upright, for longer periods, with more confidence and with better balance too. I also have much more energy to do my day to day things.

“You also always feel safe because you’re with an experienced instructor. Even my friend who doesn’t ‘do exercise’ is now eager to start as she has seen such an improvement in me and I am really looking forward to joining a Nordic Walking group.”

Susan’s story “Poor health problems at the start of this year meant my husband Richard had to take things easy for a few months. I read a couple of news items about Nordic Walking, which seemed to be a safe form of exercise for people like us. Richard was sceptical, but came to watch and was impressed so he decided to take part.

We attended a full course of five weekly lessons, then a week later we packed our poles and travelled to the South of France, ready to put our training to good use.

“We discovered that Nordic Walking added greatly to our enjoyment and knowledge of the area. The poles helped us to walk more quickly, go up and down hills more easily and gave very good support when crossing rough terrain. We lost some weight, regained some shape, and most importantly, felt fitter. We never imagined that exercise could be so much fun.”

See p 6 for World Congress on Active Ageing details.

24 Visit www.wcaa2012.com for more on active ageing

inspire

Luminate will illuminate arts and ageing excellence Luminate: a brand new national festival of creativity, arts and ageing, will take place this October with events across Scotland. Advantage readers will be sent a complementary programme in the early autumn, but to whet appetites here is a taste of some of the inspirational work that the festival will showcase. Programme information will also be available online at www.luminatefestival.org.

Dementia-friendly Arts The work of distinguished artist and choreographer Janice Parker took centre stage at Stirling’s first ever Let’s Dance Festival in April 2012. Janice spent nearly two months working with Town Break; a Stirling-based dementia charity, to develop new work in dance. A film was made of the experience to illustrate the impact of dance for dementia sufferers and to create something tangible for the participants.

The project saw the choreographer attempting to create a bridge between her world and that of the dementia sufferers. Working collaboratively, contributing from their different perspectives, and using discussion and movement, they explored the relevance and value of dance to their lives. The group shared stories about how dance had already featured in their lives followed by dance workshops, and looked at what impact dance will have for them following the residency.

Janice found that dance can offer a number of advantages in working with people with dementia.

“It can be a memory trigger, but it is not just about what has happened in the past, but also what is happening right now. It is a non verbal-language – that is something all dance has – which is very relevant for people with dementia.”

For Janice, the biggest challenge was people feeling initially that they didn’t have that much to contribute.

“My approach was to start from where each individual

Town Break

is and what they want to give, and draw things out from that,” she says. “Every week people just got more and more creative - the energy from the group was amazing, and we enjoyed a lot of laughter.”

Janice will describe her work with Town Break in more detail, and screen the film, at a symposium entitled Dementia Friendly Arts in Stirling in the last week of October 2012. This day-long event will enable people working in the field of arts and dementia from across Scotland to share examples of inspiring partnerships and projects, and to debate issues around dementia related creative activity.

Organised in partnership by macrobert, Luminate and Artworks, the programme will also feature speakers such as Professor June Andrews from the Dementia Services Development Centre at the University of Stirling. If you would like to attend the symposium you can register your interest by emailing luminate@agescotland.org.uk.

Email your inspirational stories to advantage@agescotland.org.uk 25

inspire

Unusual places to dance Tricky Hat Productions’ ‘Unusua l Plac es to B Danc (photo by Kim erveridge) e’

As we get older how do our relationships change?

Are we more isolated and less connected? These questions form the basis of Tricky Hat Productions’ ‘Unusual Places to Dance’ project in partnership with Cumbernauld Action Care for the Elderly (CACE). This is bringing together a group of older people from Cumbernauld who, through music, dance and digital art, are taking the opportunity to present their own unique stories.

“As we age, we can become more isolated and less intimate. Sometimes we feel less connected with the world around us,” says Tricky Hat Director, Fiona Miller.

“However dance suspends you from being you! When you dance, when you float across a ballroom floor to the big band sound of Glen Miller or Tommy Dorsey, you can transcend the mundane, the humdrum.”

For Fiona, dance is all about connection. “First, you connect with your dancing self, finding a liberating and enjoyable form of expression. Then, with ballroom dancing, you connect with your partner.

This is intimate and at the same time social.”

And if you’ve been passing through the Antonine Shopping Centre in Cumbernauld’s Town Centre during March or June of this year, you may have been lucky enough to have seen ‘Unusual Places to Dance’ taking place.

26 Visit www.luminatefestival.org

John Hamill, a retired ganger from Cumbernauld, says: “This has been a brilliant experience. Before taking part, something like this was the last thing on my mind – it has opened up a whole new world to me.”

Tricky Hat, CACE and project participants are now preparing a piece of theatre that will be performed within the structure of a Tea Dance. Working with two professional actors, the participants are looking forward to performing the piece in front of a live audience as part of Scotland’s new creative ageing festival. Anne Gallacher, Luminate Festival Director, says: “Tricky Hat’s work really challenges preconceived ideas. Audiences discover stories that are seldom seen or heard and participants are enriched by their experience of taking part. I’m really looking forward to the next installment of Unusual Places to Dance during Luminate this October.”

And after that? Tricky Hat and Cumbernauld Theatre have big plans for a full scale touring production of ‘Unusual Places to Dance’ for Spring 2013.

For more information and to view a video clip from the project, just click on the picture of the dancers at www.trickyhat.com. The ‘Unusual Places to Dance’ project receives pARTners funding from Creative Scotland.

soap box

Who are you calling a problem?

Guest columnist Doris Godfrey calls for an end to talk of an ageing crisis.

Here’s a quote from the Daily Telegraph: “Councils may have to close some swimming pools and libraries to allow more financial aid to be allocated to the increasing population of older people.” And a response from the Government: “We must urgently tackle this crisis.” Once again older people are made to feel guilty and uncomfortable, through no fault of their own.

Perhaps, just perhaps, the policy makers could listen to the older population. We do have ideas and can still think; at age 70, 80 and even 90. In our lifetime we’ve experienced war and a shortage of essential supplies. We had jobs, and if we left without good reason there were no handouts. We paid our taxes and, however small our wages, contributions were taken towards our pensions. We raised our families and saved. In many cases we bought our own property, and our mortgages were only agreed if salaries were sufficient to cover repayments.

So why don’t policy makers listen to us? The majority have spent years taking care of themselves and would like to continue that way. Instead of saying ‘how can we care for this generation,’ planners should ask ‘how can we keep them independent?’

Obviously there will be some need for care homes, but these can be kept to an absolute minimum by providing the right services. Housing, health care, opportunities for socialising; these are necessary for all ages so why not gear them to enable our age group to keep its well earned independence?

The pathway of life is a mosaic that includes mums and babies, disabled people, the chronically ill and acutely sick. All need specialist care and facilities to enable a full life, so why are older people singled out as causing a crisis? Is it that they are past their ‘sell by date’? Is it perhaps because they are a vulnerable

Not Doris Godfrey!

section, or as the general population grows, are in many cases no longer able to make their voices heard? Come on policy makers – think! Use your heads and don’t rely on some ‘paper exercise’ at your desks or on some adviser that tells you ‘this is what older people need.’ Talk to older people directly, and you’ll get the right advice first-hand.

If you have an idea for a Soap Box column, call Doug Anthoney on 0845 833 9313, email advantage@agescotland.org.uk or write to Doug at the Age Scotland office address on the back page. The views of Soap Box columnists do not necessarily reflect Age Scotland’s views or policies.

Call 118 202 Directory Enquiries and donate 9p for each 40p call 27

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