Voice Spring 2016 by Lance Media Group

SPRING/SUMMER 2016

Keeping Cool

in Summer Very high temperatures and humidity can present a risk to health, and older people can be particularly susceptible to heat-related illness

What You Didn’t Know About…

HM Lord-Lieutenant ofd Bedfordshire Helen Nelliss

Are you a

Carer for Someone?

If you look after your partner, or a relative or friend who needs help because they are ill or disabled, then you are a carer

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY + PUZZLE PAGE + GREENFINGERED GRANDMA + MUCH MORE

Cover Image © HannaMonika / shutterstock

Meet the team… Editor

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Amanda Jones Tel: 01234 360 510 Email: amanda.jones@ ageukbedfordshire.org.uk

Sub-Editor

Klaudia Len Tel: 01234 360 510 Email: klaudia.len@ ageukbedfordshire.org.uk

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Age UK Bedfordshire

Head Office 78 - 82 Bromham Road Bedford MK40 2QH Tel: 01234 360 510 Email: voice@ ageukbedfordshire.org.uk

Designer

Rowena Wilson Email: rowena@ lancepublishing.co.uk

Sales

Laurence Rowe Tel: 01536 526662 Email: laurence@ lancepublishing.co.uk

Publisher

17 Contents List Spring/Summer 2016 Keeping cool in Summer .................6 We all look forward to 'a good summer', older people can be susceptible to heat related illness.

Dates for Your Diary ..................7 Selection of events taking place.

2 | SPRING/SUMMER 2016

Greenfingered Grandma ...................... 8 Offering her top tips for getting your garden ready for the coming months.

Insurance, Products & services....... 9 Information about essential products and services you should have.

Are you a carer for someone?.................10 Advice about the various help and benefits available for carers.

Warmer homes this winter & every winter going forward..... 17 Age UK are helping to reduce fuel poverty.

Lance Publishing Ltd 1st Floor Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering NN16 8NL Tel: 01536 512624 www.lancepublishing.co.uk

6 What You Didn’t Know About…............... 19 We interview Helen Nellis, HM Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire.

Puzzle Page .................20 The usual trio are back, Sudoku, Wordsearch and a Quick Quiz.

Charlie Chuckles...........22 Will he be able to make you laugh?

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Lance Print Ltd Tel: (01733) 390564 www.lanceprint.co.uk

This magazine is produced on behalf of Age UK Bedfordshire by Lance Publishing Ltd. All rights are reserved by the charity and no part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission of the charity. Age UK Bedfordshire will accept no responsibility for, or necessarily agree with, any claims made or views expressed in this publication, nor does the mention of any product, service or advertisement imply a recommendation by Age UK Bedfordshire. Reg. Charity No. 1090535

working hard to improve life for older people

Foreword from the CEO

As I write this I am looking forward to the Spring and Summer. The winter although not so cold except of late, has been long, grey, wet and dreary.

he sun has been in short supply and we all feel so much brighter when a few rays of warmth come through our windows. Let us hope for an early sunny Spring so that all the flowers, trees, and animals awake and the circle of life can begin in earnest. Within this edition you will find, I hope, some interesting news items, with information on a wide range of issues of interest. There are the usual puzzles and jokes together with interesting features and the regular piece on ‘What You Didn’t Know About?’ featuring HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire – Helen Nellis.

As the EU referendum starts to build in momentum perhaps an hour or so with a gentle read will bring light relief for some if not all of our readers. Don’t forget to check our Diary Dates and much more inside. So please continue reading and I hope you find this edition enjoyable and interesting.

Karen Karen Perry CEO, Age UK Bedfordshire

SPRING/SUMMER 2016 | 3

Home Fire Safety Message

Would you like to spend some or all of your day somewhere local and lively? Somewhere you can meet others in a friendly and comfortable environment? At Bedford Guild House, you’ll find an open door. You’ll find activities to suit all tastes and the company of other people just like you. It’s a relaxing and down-to-earth place where you can do as much or as little as you wish. Pop in and have a game of whist on Monday. Maybe have your hair done or a facial. Or simply have a chat over coffee. If you are not alone, why not join us with your partner or friend? It’s an easy way to make contact with others. Give it a go. Pop in and say hello to us. We’ll show you around and explain what’s on offer. Why not stay for a coffee or a hot lunch while you’re here. Don’t be afraid to come on your own—most new people do. Most newcomers don’t know others when they first arrive but with all kinds of people from all walks of life, you’ll be sure to get chatting quickly to someone with similar interests, hopes and experiences. Come back again and join in one of the activities. If you are only in the area for a short while, just drop in for coffee and a chat.

Here are just a few of the things you can do— • Learn a new skill or craft • Send an e-mail • Join an escorted holiday or day trip • Try Tai Chi or Pilates • Try line dancing or join our Zumba Class. • Visit our foot specialist, hairdresser, holistic or beauty therapist. • Join the play reading group • Have lunch It’s not just about learning, it’s also about enjoying the buzz and hum of each other’s company. Bedford Guild House is a friendly place for anyone over the age of 50. We are a registered charity and a company limited by guarantee and have been offering support to older people for over 40 years. Our main aim is to provide people with an opportunity to meet others socially, to make new friends and to spend time enjoying an exceptional range of interesting activities. At Bedford Guild House you are never alone. We are a friend like no other. Why struggle on your own to find new friends, interests and activities when it’s all here under one roof. There’s nowhere else quite like it! Open Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm.

BEDFORD GUILD HOUSE 56 Harpur Street, Bedford, MK40 2QT

Tel: 01234 352038 Web: www.bedfordguildhouse.org.uk Email: sonia@bedfordguildhouse.org.uk Reg Charity No 1123721 and Company No 6527910

For advice on smoke alarms - www.bedsfire.com

Keeping Cool

in Summer We all look forward to ‘a good summer’, even though we’re quite often disappointed! But very high temperatures and humidity can present a risk to health, and older people can be particularly susceptible to heat-related illness.

t’s important to remember that high temperatures in the UK can be just as dangerous as high temperatures abroad. And don’t get caught out during unseasonably warm weather, as temperatures can soar as early as April.

What else can you do? • If you live alone, consider asking a relative or friend to visit or phone to check that you’re not having difficulties.

• If you know a neighbour who lives alone, check regularly that they are OK. • If a heatwave is on its way or the weather is hot for several days, listen to local radio so you know the latest advice for your area. Check weather reports and temperature warnings on TV and radio, and through The MET Office. • If you have breathing problems or a heart condition, your symptoms might get worse when it’s very hot. Contact your GP for advice. • Bacteria on food can multiply quickly in hot weather,

10 tips for staying cool 1. Don’t spend long periods sitting or working outside during the hottest time of the day: late morning to mid-afternoon. 2. If you’re travelling by car or public transport always take a bottle of water. 3. Avoid strenuous activity, and limit activities like housework and gardening to the early morning or evening when it’s cooler. 4. When inside, try to stay in the coolest parts of your home. Keep curtains and blinds closed in rooms that catch the sun. 5. Keep windows shut while it’s cooler inside than out and open them when it gets

hotter inside. If it’s safe, you could leave a window open at night when it’s cooler. 6. W ear loose, lightweight, light-coloured, cotton clothing. 7. T ake cool baths or showers. 8. S plash your face with cool (not cold) water, or place a damp cloth on the back of your neck to help you cool off. 9. Drink lots of fluid – even if you aren’t thirsty. 10. Eat normally – even if you aren’t hungry, you need a normal diet to replace salt losses from sweating. In addition, try to have more cold foods, particularly salads and fruit, as these contain a lot of water.

Read on for some hints, tips and advice about staying cool during summer or a heatwave:

6 | SPRING/SUMMER 2016

which increases the risk of food poisoning. Don't leave food out in a warm room or the sun.

Looking after your skin It’s very important to ensure that your skin isn’t exposed to the sun for long periods, as this can lead to sunburn and make you more susceptible to skin cancer. Use sunscreen of at least SPF15 (sun protection factor) with four or five stars, applying it generously half an hour before and again shortly after going out in the sun. The sunscreen’s star rating shows its ability to protect your skin from damage and premature ageing. Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours and if you’ve been in water, reapply when you are dry. Get to know your skin type – whether you burn easily can influence the strength of sunscreen you should use and how long you can be outside in the sun without burning. Remember that anyone can develop skin cancer, so it’s important to protect your skin whatever your skin type. When you’re using sunscreen, apply it to your ears if they’re exposed, as well as your face, neck, arms, any bald patches on your head and any other uncovered part of your body. A hat will protect your head, face, ears and eyes. Wear sunglasses that have a CE mark, UV400 label or a statement that they offer 100 per cent UV (ultraviolet) protection. When the weather is hot, your skin may also feel drier than usual. Using moisturiser can help keep your skin healthy. Sun exposure & vitamin D Although it’s important to protect your skin, some direct exposure to the sun is essential for the production of vitamin D, so don’t avoid the sun altogether. Don’t let your skin redden or burn, but try to go outside every day without

sunscreen for short periods from March to October, exposing at least your forearms and hands to the sun. Try to do this either once or twice a day. The more skin exposed, the better your chance of making enough vitamin D. There are some food sources of vitamin D – salmon, sardines and other oily fish, eggs and fortified spreads – but sunshine is the major source for most people. The Government recommends that some people take a vitamin D supplement of 10µg daily, including people aged 65 and over. If you think you could be at risk of not getting enough vitamin D, particularly if you are housebound or cover your skin for cultural reasons, raise this with your GP. Always speak to your GP before starting to take a vitamin supplement or over-the counter medicine on a daily basis. Dehydration & overheating Extreme heat and dry conditions can cause you to dehydrate and your body to overheat. It’s important to make sure you eat a balanced diet to help your body replace any salt you lose by sweating. You should also drink plenty (see page 3) but may need to take particular care and speak to your GP or practice nurse if you’re taking medication that affects water retention. Watch out for certain signs – particularly for muscle cramps in your arms, legs or stomach, mild confusion, weakness or sleep problems. If you have any of these, rest in a cool place and drink plenty of fluids.

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Your symptoms should improve within 30 minutes. If you’re feeling better, but still have any concerns call your GP.

Seek medical advice if your symptoms persist or worsen. Heat exhaustion & heatstroke Heat exhaustion The symptoms of heat exhaustion include headaches, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, intense thirst, heavy sweating and a fast pulse. If you have any of these symptoms you must, if at all possible: • find a cool place to lie down • loosen tight clothes and remove any unnecessary clothing • drink plenty of water or fruit juice • sponge yourself with cool water or have a cool shower

Heatstroke Heatstroke can develop if heat exhaustion is left untreated – but it can also develop suddenly and without warning. The more severe symptoms of heatstroke include confusion, disorientation, seizures and loss of consciousness. Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition. So if you or someone else shows symptoms: • call 999 immediately • if you have a community alarm, press the button on

your pendant to call for help • while waiting for the ambulance do not try to give fluids to anyone who is unconscious Our booklet ‘Keeping Cool in Summer’ has all the information and tips to help. Pop into our office for a copy.

Dates for Your

Diary March

• Sunday 6th Mothers Day • Thursday 24th Maundy Thursday • Friday 25th Good Friday •S aturday 26th Put your clocks forward one hour tonight • Sunday 27th Easter Sunday and British Summer Time commences

April

• Saturday 23rd St Georges Day

May

• Monday 2nd Spring Bank Holiday • Sunday 29th Whit Sunday • Monday 30th Whit Monday Bank Holiday

June

• Sunday 19th Fathers Day

August

• Monday 29th Summer Bank Holiday

working hard to improve life for older people

SPRING/SUMMER 2016 | 7

Insurance, Products and Services Most of us want to remain independent and to keep doing things in life we love most.

Tuna pasta

This quick and easy meal contains tinned tuna fish, a low-saturated-fat source of protein, which you need to help with repair after illness or injury. Pasta is a good source of slow-energy-release carbohydrates, to give you energy until your next meal. Method Four Put the pasta in an ovenproof One Cook the pasta in a pan of boiling water until soft. Drain and leave.

dish, pour the tuna mix in, and sprinkle with cheese.

Two

Crisp off in a medium-heat oven for 15 minutes.

Chop the onion and fry in a teaspoon of olive oil until soft.

Three

Add the soup and tuna. Stir well and cook for 2 minutes.

Five

Six

Serve with a mixed salad or vegetables to provide a balanced meal.

Ingredients

•3 40g/12oz pasta shapes •1 medium onion •H alf a tin of condensed tomato soup •1 small tin of tuna (drained) •1 tbsp grated cheddar cheese

Greenfingered Grandma After a very wet, mild winter the grass has kept growing unseasonably and daffodils, blossom and spring flowers have appeared early.

aintaining the garden has been an ongoing routine for many people but now is time to have a thorough spring clean. Any remaining leaves can be raked up, borders can be tidied and dug over and we can delight in the bulbs which are bursting through. Flowering bulbs look fresh, bright and cheerful and various patterns emerge such as when bulbs are planted in swathes, in lawns or groups in borders. After flowering any springflowering shrubs can be pruned and dead-heading, to maintain bulbs for next year is advisable, as the leaves absorb sunlight for photosynthesising food.

In Summer we can look forward to the burst of colour from bedding plants and roses with their pleasant scents. Hanging baskets can be planted out once the risk of frost has passed and regular dead-heading, watering and feeding will ensure a summer display of flowers. Maintaining a garden can be hard work but if you can and you have the time it is a wonderful thing to see the fruits of your labour. I know as a Grandma myself how my green-fingers are not working as they used to and it is a pleasure to remain in my own home with a little help from my friends and gardener who look after the things I cannot attend to myself anymore.

Home Insurance – Cover for Buildings, Contents or both is available with no hidden admin fees and the choice to pay by monthly instalments at no extra cost (0% APR Representative). Car Insurance – Great value cover with no upper age limit and the choice to pay by monthly instalments at no extra cost (0% APR Representative). Motor Breakdown – Cover wherever you are in the UK including Roadside, Recovery and Home Services.

5–10 minutes Cooking time 25–30 minutes Serves 1

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Wills and Legal Services - In association with leading law firm Irwin Mitchell, we offer a range of legal services providing advice in relation to Wills, family and relationships, personal injury, buying or selling a home and rights at work. Home, Car and Travel Insurance are provided by Ageas Insurance Limited. Age UK Motor Breakdown is provided by Aria Insurance Services Limited. Personal Alarms are provided by Aid-Call Limited. Personal Alarms are provided by Aid-Call Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for Consumer Credit. Financial Services Register number 707455. Age UK Bedfordshire is an Appointed Representative of Age UK Enterprises Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for insurance mediation. ACOSE2555V3FEB16

To find out more, call us on

Travel Insurance – Choice of Single Trip or Annual Multi-trip cover with no upper age limit and cover for existing medical conditions wherever possible.

Enjoy a wonderful spring and summer season and why not try Age UK Bedfordshire’s gardening service?

Preparation time

8 | SPRING/SUMMER 2016

In association with various third party providers, Age UK Enterprises Limited and Aid-Call Limited have developed a range of products and services for the over 50s. These include Home, Car, and Travel Insurance, Motor Breakdown Services, Funeral Plans, Wills and Legal Services, LifeBook, Personal Alarms, Age UK Weekly Lottery.

Family Favourite Recipe

Personal Alarms – If you want to remain independent and have peace of mind, Personal Alarms is the perfect service for you. Professional and friendly help in an emergency, any time of the day and night. No obligation home demonstration available upon request or order online and connect the unit yourself with Easy-Connect.

Funeral Plan – Your family will be spared the worry of having to make all the arrangements, and the financial strain of paying for them will be eased. Acceptance is guaranteed if you are over 50 and there are easy payment options.

working hard to improve life for older people

01234 360510

SPRING/SUMMER 2016 | 9

Are you a

Carer for Someone? If you look after your partner, or a relative or friend who needs help because they are ill or disabled, then you are a carer.

ou may have looked after someone for a long time without ever thinking of yourself as a carer. There are different ways in which you may care for someone else. For instance, you might: • Visit a relative who lives far away once a month to check on their wellbeing • Arrange hospital

1 0 | SPRING/SUMMER 2016

• • •

appointments by telephone for a parent Live close enough to a disabled friend to be able to drop in every day to provide a meal and some company Move in with a relative to help them recuperate after a major operation Be on hand to provide 24-hour constant care for your partner

Whether or not to take on a caring role is a decision that many of us will have to make at some point in our lives. Becoming a carer can be rewarding, but at times may also feel overwhelming

and demanding. Take time to review your options to ensure that you make the best decision for both you and the person who needs care. Getting help from friends and family can ease the stress, and your GP and social services should be able to provide support. If you care for someone with dementia, you may want to read our free guide ‘Caring for someone with dementia’. As a carer, you have certain basic rights. You have the right to: • A carer’s assessment • Request flexible working from your employer • Receive financial support through Carer’s Allowance • Have your views taken into consideration by social services when they are deciding how best to meet the needs of the person you care for Caring for someone can be difficult and there are lots of reasons why you might need support.

• You may find certain tasks difficult to carry out for health or personal reasons • It may be hard finding time for yourself, your family and friends • The condition of the person you care for may become worse

The person you care for is entitled to a separate community care assessment. This should also look at your role as a carer. Contact your local council to request an assessment, or see our free guide ‘Care at home’ to find out more.

You’re entitled to a free carer’s assessment. Call your local council social services department to request one. The council’s contact number should be in your phone book. The kind of help and support you can get includes respite care to give you a break; information on local carers support groups; help with caring; and equipment to help you (our free guide ‘Adapting your home’ has more information on this).

Disability benefits for the person you’re caring for

Before you have an assessment, think about the following questions: • Are you getting enough sleep? • Can you get out and do things by yourself? • Are you eating well?

Carer’s Allowance

• Is your health being affected by caring? • Can you cope with other family commitments? • Is juggling work and caring difficult? • Are you able to pursue your work or educational goals? • Can you socialise and enjoy your hobbies in the way that you used to? • Are there any other issues that may affect your ability to continue caring?

If the person you care for needs extra help with mobility, or with personal care such as dressing or washing, they may be eligible to claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP) if they are under 65, or Attendance Allowance (AA) if they are 65 or over. You may need to help the person you care for to claim a disability benefit (and if they are mentally incapacitated or terminally ill, you can claim it on their behalf if you have power of attorney or if the DWP agrees). Ask our local office to help you complete the forms.

Attendance Allowance (AA)

If the person you care for is over 65 and has difficulty with their personal care or needs supervision to keep them safe, they can claim AA. There is no mobility component to AA but there are different rates depending on how their disability affects them. See our free guide ‘Attendance Allowance’ to learn more.

Your health

Caring can have a significant impact on both your physical and emotional health. It’s easy to overlook your own health needs, but it’s important to stay as healthy as possible. Tell your GP that you’re a carer and how this affects your ability to care for your own health.

They may be able to help by: • Discussing ways to help you manage your own health needs if your caring responsibilities make it difficult to get to the GP surgery • Arranging appointments for you and the person you care for at the same time • Arranging for repeat prescriptions to be delivered to your local pharmacy • Providing supporting letters and information to help you and the person you care for to access some benefits • Involving you, where appropriate, in discussions about the person you care for Carers of people with serious or ongoing health conditions may also qualify for a free annual flu jab. Try to eat healthily, stay active and get enough sleep. This can be

Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

If the person you care for is under 65 and needs help with either personal care or walking around, they can claim PIP which has replaced Disability Living Allowance (DLA). If the person you care for currently claims DLA, they will be contacted between now and 2018 and told how to apply for PIP instead.

Carer’s Allowance is paid at £62.10 per week. If your State

Pension is more than £62.10 a week, or you get certain benefits at a higher amount than Carer’s Allowance, then you will not be paid Carer’s Allowance. This is because State Pension and Carer’s Allowance are classed as ‘overlapping’ benefits. They are both payments you can get if you’re not working, and you can only claim one at a time. Instead, you will be awarded an ‘underlying entitlement’ to Carer’s Allowance. This means you meet all the criteria for Carer’s Allowance but can’t be paid it. The good news is that this entitles you to get extra money paid with any meanstested benefits you claim, such as Pension Credit and Housing Benefit. This extra money is known as a carer premium, or carer addition when it’s paid with Pension Credit.

www.ageuk.org.uk/bedfordshire

working hard to improve life for older people

The main welfare benefit specifically for carers is called Carer’s Allowance. To qualify for Carer’s Allowance you must: • Spend at least 35 hours a week caring for a disabled person • Care for someone who receives Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance care component (at the highest or middle rate), or Personal Independence Payment daily living component (at either rate), Armed Forces Independence Payment or Constant Attendance Allowance • Not be in full-time education or earning more than £110 a week

‘Personal Independence Payment’ to find out more.

PIP has two components: • Daily living: if the person has difficulty with certain activities considered essential to daily living • Mobility: if they have difficulty getting around outdoors They can claim one component or both. Each component will be paid at two different rates depending on their level of difficulty. See our free factsheet

Continued on page 12

SPRING/SUMMER 2016 | 11

Continued from page 11 difficult when you’re a carer, but our free guides ‘Healthy living’ and ‘Healthy eating’ have ideas about staying well. Don’t forget about your emotional health. If you’re struggling to manage or feeling isolated or depressed, let your family and friends know. Joining a carers’ support group or finding an online forum may help. Contact us for local groups where you can join and get out for a while and chat with other people.

When your caring role changes

If the condition of the person you’ve been caring for deteriorates and, for whatever reason, you’re no longer able to provide the care they need, then it’s time to think about arranging a different system of care. The person you look after may require more support than you have the time or energy to give. Ask their local social services department to assess or reassess their care needs. Their changing health needs may entitle them to more services and support at home

“

If the person you care for has died

new people may be the last thing you feel like doing while coping with a bereavement. As a result, you may feel very alone or isolated. It may help to talk to family and friends who knew the person you cared for, to share memories and support each other. Or you might prefer to contact an organisation that offers support for people who have suffered

a bereavement. Specialist organisations such as Cruse Bereavement Care can offer counselling, advice and practical help, and put you in touch with local bereavement groups. Whatever you do, remember that you do not have to cope alone. There is help out there for you from people who understand what you are going through.

than before. Get a carer’s assessment for yourself too, as you may be entitled to extra support. If, however, the person you care for needs more intensive care, they may need to consider the possibility of moving into sheltered housing or a care home. This is a big decision and you should both take the time to look at all the options open to you. Think about other types of housing that may be suitable, such as extra-care sheltered housing. See our free guide ‘Housing options’ for more information.

die. Whatever the reason for your role as a carer ending, you may experience mixed emotions. You may feel guilty about being relieved that you can have your life back, but you may also experience grief, emptiness and loneliness.

human and there are limits to the care you can provide at home. If you’re becoming exhausted or the person you care for is getting worse, a care home can be the best option for you both.

As well as the loss of the person you cared for, you may also face the loss of the relationships you built up with the professionals involved in their care. Being a carer can be demanding and you may have lost touch with family and friends; getting back in contact with them or meeting

If the person you care for has moved into a care home

This might have been a difficult decision, and perhaps you feel you’ve let down the person you were looking after. Remember, you’re only

For more information Contact our office by phone 01234 360510, email at enquiries@ ageukbedfordshire. org.uk or pop in for any further information.

When caring ends

Caring may come to an end when the person you’re looking after moves into a care home, or when they

Caring can have a significant impact on both your physical and emotional health.

1 2 | SPRING/SUMMER 2016

”

www.ageuk.org.uk/bedfordshire

SPRING/SUMMER 2016 | 13

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Warmer Homes

this winter & every winter

going forward

Age UK Bedfordshire has an ambition along with Age UK the national organisation to reduce fuel poverty and to help address ill-health amongst older people caused by fuel poverty and cold homes.

ge UK Bedfordshire has secured funding from British Gas Energy Trust, an independent trust to help us achieve our goal. We have been selected to deliver local projects which will support low income and vulnerable households affected by fuel poverty. We will deliver a holistic service aimed at addressing ill-health caused by cold homes and fuel poverty. Our overarching aim is to address cold-related ill-health

amongst older people affected by fuel poverty. Taking self-referrals and working with local authorities and local Clinical Commissioning Groups we will reach vulnerable older people who are most at risk of fuel poverty and cold-related ill health. Providing holistic, one-on-one ‘Warmer Homes -Healthy Homes’ checks for older people; these will include benefits’ entitlement checks, home energy assessments (within the older person’s home), energy efficiency advice and signposting to

additional support - such as boiler replacement services and installation of Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRV) and internal insulation aids. We will also act as advocates supporting older people through processes like switching suppliers, smart meter installations and energy billing enquiries, as well as offering support during power cuts and giving qualified fuel debt advice. The target groups of older people are the ‘at risk groups’. These have been identified as: • Over the age of 65 • Suffering from or at risk of cardiovascular and respiratory conditions • Disabled • On low income

• • • • • • •

Living in properties that are hard to heat (those with solid walls, no loft space, in a state of disrepair, high rise blocks and those not connected to the gas grid), and With mental health conditions and dementia Living alone Having recently experienced sudden changes in circumstances (i.e. due to bereavement separation, loss of employment) With caring responsibilities With literacy or numeracy difficulties, and With a limited knowledge/a lack of experience of the energy market

If you think that you or someone you know falls into one or more of these categories and are over the age of 50 years, please contact us. Don’t worry if you’re not sure or if you are reading this on a bright sunny day, and think we only work on this in the winter, please just contact us.

Visit Age UK Bedfordshire Trading Limited

The service is free & confidential

Telephone 01234 360510 or email enquiries@ ageukbedfordshire.org. uk and mention “Warmer Homes”. We will do the rest! There really is no need to be cold in your home – we can help!

working hard to improve life for older people

SPRING/SUMMER 2016 | 17

What You Didn’t Know About…

get through the hurdles. It wasn’t easy, but I learnt a lot about my inner strength, the power of love and friendship and the importance of faith.

Q. D o you plan on

Image: © Africa Studio, www.shutterstock.com

retiring ever? Most of my friends would say that they could never imagine me retiring fully. I have been appointed as HM LordLieutenant until 2034 and have a business which I run. My husband is also a very busy person. But who knows? One day we may just decide to take things a bit easier. My friends who have retired all seem to be having a wonderful time!

Q. W ho was the last

Helen Nellis HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Q. W hat are the most

important lessons you have learned in your life? To try and make a difference, however small, to the people we come across in our journey in the world. Also, not to be afraid to take a chance and to take a different path than others might have expected you to do. A clear set of values is the essential framework for a happy and fulfilling life.

Q. H ow has being a

parent changed you? We have three fantastic children who are all along the path towards living their dreams. When we first had children I was working in the courts and often did family work. I was young and naive in those days and did not fully appreciate the stresses and strains, as well as the great joy one has from children. It is so important to build a network of support in all aspects of life, to gain wisdom and to have a caring friend or family member, when you need advice or just somewhere to blow off steam. It also, of

course, makes one hugely aware that the decisions our generation take, are ones that our children will live with.

Q. D o you get nervous before

making a speech? I trained as a barrister which has given me a great basis on being able to speak on my feet. My father loved literature and I was brought up to appreciate poetry and great books. It helps to be able to draw on this knowledge. Of course, there are times when I do get nervous, because I always want to do my best for the audience and not bore them to tears!

Q. I f you could take only

one book on a desert island what would it be? The Prophet by Khalil Gibran. I discovered this book of spiritual poems when I was at University and it has been by my bedside ever since. It is a thoughtful response to many of life’s biggest moments; having children; marriage; giving; death; working. It settles me when I have big

working hard to improve life for older people

challenges to address and alongside the bible, offers me a great framework for making decisions.

Q. I f you met God what

would you say to him? Thank you for so many wonderful people and places in the world. Help us all to be more tolerant, kinder and more understanding of difference and to appreciate the many things that bind us together, rather than the issues which tear us apart. Bring peace to us all and help us to share the world’s generous resources with all peoples.

Q. T he biggest obstacles

I have overcome in my life so far? I was diagnosed with cancer in the week that it was announced that I was to be the next Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire. I had also taken on a new job in that same week and so it was a time when I had to pull on all my personal strength and the strength of my family and friends. It was a tough few days of decision-making, but I decided, with the love and support of those around me, to say yes to everything and

person you hugged? Well I have to say it was my husband Joe, otherwise I would be in trouble. I am a bit of a hugger in general, and when I feel moved by someone else’s contribution, I will often give them a hug. It is a very lovely thing to give and receive a hug and makes me feel very close to the person. Some people are so isolated; I think we should all make it a rule to hug someone on a regular basis.

Q. A re you a cat or

dog person? We have always had rescue cats which we chose because we are mostly out during the day and cats are more independent than dogs. Cats have amazing personalities, but can let you down at times. This Xmas we had a mouse cheekily sitting on the branch of our Xmas tree. Our cats just lay there in front of the fire doing nothing rather than helping us out!

Q. W hat did you think

you would be when you grew up? A ballerina, like most little girls. But it soon became obvious that I had neither the talent nor the body shape to succeed!

SPRING/SUMMER 2016 | 19

Puzzle Page Solutions to all three puzzles can be found on page 24

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Wordsearch Which One is Missing? Can you find which fruit is missing from the list below? PICNIC HOLIDAY BEACH SEAGULL FOREST HAT PARTY SUN

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Are you

Quick Quiz

Sudoku The Game of Logic Place each of the digits 1 to 9 in each row, column and 3x3 box. There is only one solution.

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eating enough?

Test your knowledge in our to be updated Quick Quiz. 1. Who is the current Poet Laureate? 2. I n which year was Tony Blair elected as Prime Minister of the UK? 3. H ow many furlongs are there in a mile? 4. Which cricketer in his final Test match scored the quickest ever Test century? 5. W hat is the capital of the Isle of Man? 6. W ho was the last Emperor of India? 7. The pound coin was introduced in which year? 8. Dartmoor National Park is located in which county? 9. A t what temperature are Centigrade and Fahrenheit the same? 10. Which 1941 John Ford film was based within a Welsh coal mining community? 11. F lamboyance or stand are alternative collective nouns for which breed of bird? 12. Lady Louise Windsor and James, Viscount Severn are the children of which members of the Royal Family?

Getting thinner is not a normal part of getting older. To help ensure good health in later life, it is important to maintain a healthy, stable weight.

here are, however, a number of reasons why we might lose weight when we get older. We may be eating less if we are less interested in food, especially when feeling down. Cooking and shopping can be more of an effort and having to manage on a tight budget can make it more difficult to get enough food. Medicines can also alter the taste of food, which can put us off our favourite meals. Some signs, such as loose fitting clothes, may be obvious. There are a number of things you can do that may encourage you to eat more so that you feel well and stay healthy. • If you have a small appetite, eating small meals and snacks six times a day rather than three bigger meals maybe more appealing. Try out the tasty recipe on page 25. • As you’re trying to put on weight, full fat rather than low

There are other signs to look out for:

Share Your Voice With Us…

e are looking to publish a selection of articles where readers write into the magazine

2 0 | SPRING/SUMMER 2016

with their thoughts, views on topics raised in the magazine or support they have received from Age UK Bedfordshire. Please write to: The Editor, Age UK Bedfordshire,

Voice, 78-82 Bromham Rd, Bedford MK40 2QH or Email: voice@ ageukbedfordshire.org.uk. We look forward to hearing from you next time…

• A smaller appetite than usual? • Your jewellery slipping off or becoming loose? • That you’ve had to tighten your belt buckle an extra notch? • Changes in your mood? • That you get more colds or

Remember the next edition will be available from late Autumn 2016 so if you have any stories, events going on or photographs please send them in.

www.ageuk.org.uk/bedfordshire

working hard to improve life for older people

fat foods are the ones that you should be opting for. • If you have difficulty chewing, try eating soft foods such as scrambled eggs or yoghurts. • If your teeth or dentures are a problem, make an appointment with your dentist. • Think about the foods that you enjoy and eat small portions of these foods. • If you’re having trouble cooking or cutting up food, ask a friend, relative or carer to help you. • If you have trouble shopping or cooking food, you can ask a local community organisation or your local council for help. • Introduce a regular snack around a favourite TV programme. • Ask a friend or relative out to a café or ask a community organisation for information about lunch clubs. • If someone prepares your meals, talk to them about the foods you like to eat and the portion sizes. • Keep a record of your weight and regularly check your weight. If you’re concerned, do speak to your GP or Practice Nurse. infections and find it takes longer than usual to get over illness? • Your dentures have become loose? • That you’re more tired than usual or you feel lethargic? • That you find it difficult to keep yourself warm? • That you feel dizzy sometimes?

SPRING/SUMMER 2016 | 21

Charlie Chuckles Every issue Charlie Chuckles will do his best to make you smile!

Q. When is a birthday cake like a golf ball? A. When it's been sliced.

Q. Why did the birthday cake go to the doctor? A. Because it was feeling crumby!

Q. What do they serve at birthday parties in heaven? A. Angel food cake!

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8 6 1 4 7 9 2 3 5

4 5 3 6 1 2 8 7 9

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1. Carol Ann Duffy, 2. 1997, 3. Eight, 4. Brendan McCullum, 5. Douglas, 6. King George VI, 7. 1983, 8. Devon, 9. -40 degrees, 10. How Green Was My Valley, 11. Flamingo, 12. The Earl and Countess of Wessex

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from Page 20

Answers&Solutions

ÂŠ Robert Adrian Hillman, Tobik, AnjelikaGr / shutterstock

n Sunday School, they were teaching how God created everything, including human beings. Little Johnny seemed especially intent when they told him how Eve was created out of one of Adam's ribs. Later in the week, his mother noticed him lying down as though he were ill, and said, 'Johnny what is the matter?' Little Johnny responded, 'I have a pain in my side. I think I'm going to have a wife.'

Q. Does a pink candle burn longer than a blue one? A. No, they both burn shorter!

Q. Why was the birthday cake as hard as a rock? A. Because it was marble cake!

www.ageuk.org.uk/bedfordshire

We have provided a regular gardening service throughout the area for over 14 years. All gardeners are DBS and reference checked. Most have been with us for many years. We provide a garden maintenance service, so that you can enjoy your garden, leaving us to mow and sow and strim and trim. We do not, however, carry out heavy digging or provide a makeover service. You will have the same gardener every visit whenever possible and they will come with their own gardening equipment. IF YOU ARE 50+, PLEASE RING 01234 360 510 AND ASK FOR THE GARDENING ORGANISER. We also provide a handyperson service and we really mean that no job is too small. We can replace light fittings & curtain poles, fit grab rails and stair rails and a whole array of other DIY tasks inside and outside your home; supplying and fitting keysafes and if a tap washer needs replacing, we will do that too. TELEPHONE 01234 360 510 TO DISCUSS YOUR NEEDS.

Our home help service sets the standard! We will iron, clean, shop or take you shopping. This is a regular service with a minimum of one hour a week. Like our gardening service you will have the same home help each visit whenever possible. Many of the team have been with us for 5 or more years. All employees are fully referenced and undergo continuing training. CALL 01234 360 510 FOR FULL DETAILS.

If, because of age or ill health you are unable to undertake any of these tasks, we can help.