Ageing with dignity: Supporting older adults in Bristol East
Discover how Home Instead Bristol East supports older adults with dignity in the East of Bristol, in recognition of International Older Persons Day 2024.
This October, International Older Persons Day has the theme “Ageing with Dignity: Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide.” It’s a good time to reflect on the valuable work being done by our team, our Care Professionals, community partners, and healthcare experts and families who support older adults in Bristol East and beyond.
“Supportive environments play a pivotal role in assisting older individuals to maintain their activity levels and independence as they progress in age.” United Nations
At Home Instead Bristol East, we’re proud to offer compassionate, high-quality care to older adults across areas like Kingswood, Keynsham, Hanham, Longwell Green, Brislington, and other parts of Bristol East. Whether through personal care or companionship, our mission is to support older people to continue living well in their own homes.
Why International Older Persons Day matters
International Older Persons Day, initiated by the United Nations, celebrates the contributions older adults make to society while addressing the challenges they often face. In 2024, global experts will gather to explore policies and practices to improve care for older adults.
As the UN points out, the environments in which older people live have a big impact on their ability to stay active and independent. At Home Instead Bristol East, we are committed to creating supportive, nurturing environments that allow older people to age with dignity.
Making a local difference in Bristol East
From our local office hub here in Hanham, South Gloucestershire on the edge of Bristol city, we’re dedicated to improving the lives of older adults through personalised, relationship-led care. Our passionate Care Professionals are out and about in our local area, providing tailored home care services to meet individual needs, whether that’s help with daily tasks, companionship, or more specialised care.
One of our community initiatives is Film Thursdays, a monthly event at Unity Oldland Methodist Church, offering older adults a chance to socialise and enjoy a classic film together. These gatherings offer a change of scene, and can help reduce isolation and encourage a sense of community, which is essential for well-being.
The growing older population in Bristol
According to the 2021 census, 12.9% of Bristol’s population is aged 60 and over. This highlights the increasing need for strong support systems. In Bristol:
- 7.0% of residents are aged 65 to 74
- 4.1% are aged 75 to 84
- 1.8% are aged 85 and over
Source: ons.gov.uk
The power of personalised care
Providing comprehensive care is about more than just meeting basic needs— care and companionship can help older adults maintain their independence, stay active, and feel connected to their communities. At Home Instead Bristol East, our approach focuses on:
Personalised care plans: Each individual has unique needs, so we tailor our services to provide the best possible support.
Companionship: Social interaction is key to well-being, and our Care Professionals ensure older adults remain connected to others.
Community involvement: We promote engagement in local activities and events to support a sense of belonging and connection.
How we can all make a difference
Ensuring older people can age with dignity is something we can all contribute to. Here are some meaningful ways we can help:
1. Be open and friendly: In our everyday lives, simply being kind, approachable, and open to conversations with older adults can make a world of difference. A smile or friendly chat can brighten someone’s day and help them feel more connected.
2. Encourage multigenerational gatherings: Bringing different generations together, whether through family events or community activities, helps strengthen relationships between young and old.
3. Value life experience: Whether as individuals or as employers, recognising the value that older adults bring through their life experiences can help create inclusive communities. Offering opportunities for older adults to share their skills and stories benefits everyone involved.
Additionally, as we get older ourselves, it’s important to keep doing the things we love. Staying active and connected to hobbies, interests, and social circles can play a big role in how we experience ageing.
Contact us
We believe that everyone deserves to age with dignity. If you or a loved one could benefit from the compassionate home care provided by Home Instead Bristol East, don’t hesitate to get in contact. Learn more about our home care services by calling us on 0117 3742400 or for local job opportunities take the first step and apply online at our website.