Older people

Today, International Day against Homophobia (17 May), challenges us to reflect on the effects of ignorance and discrimination on all lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) people. One group that is often sidelined and forgotten is those who are older. While an estimated 5 to 7% of older people are LGB, their views are rarely sought and their particular needs and perspectives are all too often overlooked.

Today sees the publication of interim findings from a JRF research project – 'Not a one way street' – which examines support for older people based on a simple idea. Why not harness the talents and assets of older people who need support and create mutually beneficial relationships for those involved?

'Truly appalling and truly shocking' is how Amanda Sherlock, Care Quality Commission's Director of Operations, has described the CQC findings on care for older people in 100 hospitals.

Few would disagree – even though there are good stories to be shared about the hospitals that do get this right (45 of the 100 hospitals were fully compliant with dignity and nutrition standards), and do have a culture of kindness and respect.

'Whose responsibility?' is an 18-month research project which considers the roles and responsibilities of different organisations involved in housing with care (HWC) schemes and their impact on the quality of life of older people. It is one of three studies into HWC that are being funded as part of the Better Life programme. 

Tomorrow is Older People's Day. What better way to mark this than to take our place alongside dozens of organisations from across the voluntary, private and public sectors – all coming together to celebrate the lives of older people and address the challenges of our ageing society.

Having a senior moment"

Not quite all there"

Non compos mentis..."

These phrases will undoubtedly be offensive to people who have a diagnosis of dementia – but which of us hasn't used them unthinkingly and in a jokey kind of way? Perhaps this is because, for most of us, 'getting dementia' is our very worst fear. In our newspapers and on our televisions we see images of frail, elderly people, seemingly powerless and unengaged.

The Law Commission has just published the conclusions from its review of law on adult social care in England and Wales. This is a good news story. It represents a significant step towards achieving a single, modern and progressive statute on adult social care for each of England and Wales.

Our programme of work 'A Better Life' needs your help to answer crucial questions about how we can all make the most of later life.

Scotland's strategy for reshaping care for older people came out yesterday. It promises a better future for older people in Scotland.

Granted, we are a few weeks away from elections and the race is on to woo the grey vote. All the same, it would be a shame not to mark such a significant and long-awaited announcement.

Retirement housing schemes can be places that give residents the 'feel-good' factor. And last week's second annual EAC National Housing for Older People Awards – which celebrated good retirement housing schemes – underlined this by being a real 'feel-good' event.