Frailty and Ageing in Hertfordshire: Real stories from our community
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Healthwatch Hertfordshire was commissioned by Hertfordshire and West Essex ICB to undertake research on the views of people over 65 on their views on frailty. Through community spaces, online interviews and via email, 41 residents aged between 65 – 100 years old shared their views on frailty and ageing well in Hertfordshire.
The majority of residents did not consider themselves to be frail. They often did not want to be associated with the term, demonstrating a need for a culture change around perceptions of frailty and greater awareness around lived experiences of frailty and other age-related conditions.
Residents were generally proactive in preventing frailty. Many said they try to stay physically active, look after their wellbeing and socialise with friends and family., However, limited mobility and difficulties with transportation often hindered their ability to maintain their independence and to stay as active as they would like to be.
Residents want more support from GP services. A large number do not feel supported and find accessing their GP practice increasingly difficult. They called for regular check-ups for older people to monitor their health and to support them to age well.
Most residents do not have regular medication reviews and are not certain what each of their medications are for. Although some felt confident taking and managing their medication independently, others said their medication reviews were sporadic, despite taking several medicines. each day.
Residents had good experiences of hospital care and felt positive about receiving hospital care at home. Most want to avoid going into hospital where possible, and although the majority were not aware of the hospital at home scheme, they were positive about this initiative and would prefer to receive care in their own home.
Residents were reluctant to think about their future care preferences and end of life wishes. Residents want to live in the present and did not want to think about planning for the future. Many were not aware of advance care plans but did have concerns about the cost, availability and quality of social care services.
Residents want more information and advice about ageing well and preventing frailty. Many had not received any information or advice and would like to receive this from their GP practice or the council.