A
new guide to help older people cope with losing
their hearing or eyesight has been launched today by the
Counsel and Care charity.
Around 1m older people in the UK are seriously affected by sight
loss, with many also suffering from loss of hearing. The guide
outlines the services, support and equipment that people may be
entitled to, including advice on the role of social workers in
assessing their care needs.
The guide was launched with help from the
Thomas Pocklington Trust, a leading provider of
housing, care and support services for people with sight loss in
the UK.
Counsel and Care chief executive Stephen Burke said: ‘It is
crucial that older people experiencing sensory loss, their families
and carers have access to the right information and advice at the
right time so that they know what their options are and can manage
their changing needs.’
Sarah Buchanan, research and development manager for Thomas
Pocklington Trust, said that older people all too often were not
aware of their entitlements. She added: ‘Our research shows all too
clearly how sight and hearing loss can affect people’s lives. There
is help and support available.’
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