Lancashire Fairness Commission – October 2014 Donna Studholme - Head of Information, Advice and Guidance

Ageing Well Setting the Scene for Lancashire: In ,259 over 65’s living in Lancashire Average of almost 19.5% of the population England average of 17.3% In 2023 Projected rise to 22.5% of the population England average of 19.6%

Ageing Well In ,599 over 85’s living in Lancashire Average of almost 2.45% of the population England average 2.3% In 2023 Projected rise to 3.3% of the population England average 3%

Living Independently Feeling comfortable, safe and secure where we live is central to our wellbeing Given the choice, most of us would want to live independently in our own homes for as long as possible As we get older though, we may need support and assistance to help us do so

Challenges Suitable Housing Accessing aids and adaptations Affordable and reliable maintenance Rural locations/transport Large unmanageable properties Lack of affordable ground floor accommodation Lack of support to move home

Challenges Health Living longer with Long Term Conditions Risk of falls Challenges in the NHS and Social Care Increases in the diagnosis of Dementia Loneliness and Isolation Increased caring responsibilities Loss or decrease in mobility

Challenges Poverty Nationally, 1.6 million older people are living in poverty, of whom 900,000 are living in severe poverty Fuel Poverty – national average is 10.4% of households across 326 authorities Pendle – 15%, the 18 th worst rate in the country, Burnley 13.5%, the 26 th worst rate. 6 Districts with less than national average

Challenges Incomes are being stretched by rising costs Older people are worrying about their money running out – how will they pay for their care now or in the future? Rising prices in fuel and food – some are finding they have to choose what there money is being spent on? Reluctance to claim benefits

Information, Advice and Guidance Vitally important to prevent a problem turning into a crisis Timely information and Advice can make a huge difference Specialist advice to support older people to access the benefits they are entitled to Support to reduce isolation and loneliness Many older people still don’t know where to go for I +A

Austerity – what difference has it made? Impact on Third Sector /VCFS organisations delivering services to support older people Specialist advice services for older people are decreasing due to lack of funding Closure of some public services – increased isolation NHS cuts Care in Crisis Reductions in suitable transport

Austerity – What difference has it made? Older people need to work longer Families may have moved away? Increased caring responsibilities Inequalities across the County for services Uncertainty for the future?

What is working well.……. Partnership working Early Intervention and preventative services Home from Hospital services Help Direct Age UK Led Campaigns to influence policy Age UK Lancashire’s inclusive services

Thank You! Any Questions?