What does it do?Age UK Hertfordshire aims to help older people live at home independently. We provide practical and emotional support for the crucial 6 to 8 weeks after the patient has been discharged from hospital. A trained volunteer can visit the older person at home, to help them settle in and boost their confidence. We call this service the Mental Health Hospital Discharge Scheme.
The scheme is part of a much bigger picture, involving health and social care professionals, all working together to support older people during this time. This service is for people over 55 with low level mental health needs such as early dementia or depression. Many older people suffer from forgetfulness and short-term memory loss, which can sometimes indicate the early stages of dementia, or they may become depressed following an illness, a stay in hospital or a bereavement. The scheme aims to encourage independence and prevent readmission to hospital and priority is given to people who:
- are living alone or alone during the day or living with an older or frail partner
- are frail, have poor mobility or are housebound
- have a sensory impairment
- are in need of practical and/or emotional support.
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Who it is for: for people over 55 with low level mental health needs such as early dementia or depression. | Where it is available: Local service covering: Broxbourne, Dacorum, East Hertfordshire, Hertsmere, North Hertfordshire, St Albans, Stevenage, Three Rivers, Watford, Welwyn Hatfield (Hertfordshire). | How to access or apply for it: You can refer yourself, be referred by relatives and friends or health and social care professionals. We work closely with hospital ward and Aand E staff, community nurses, matrons, occupational therapists, stroke teams, hospital and mental health community social workers.
To find out more about the scheme, or suggest someone who may need help, contact your Mental Health Hospital Discharge Coordinator today!
North Hertfordshire 01438 781560
South Hertfordshire 01923 288649
Older people without mental health needs, but who are leaving hospital can contact our Hospital Discharge and Independent Living Scheme. | What to expect then: It begins with a visit from the scheme coordinator who will come and see you in hospital, or at home if you have already been discharged. You have a chat about your concerns. Then, if we think we can help you, we will match you up with a trained volunteer, who will visit you for up to eight weeks. It might be that you need some shopping done or someone to take your prescription to the chemist or it may be that you need to spend time with someone and tell them how you are feeling. Sometimes a good listener can make a big difference!
Your volunteer will also be able to tell you about other services you might find useful, such as, advice on what benefits you are entitled to claim or how to get transport to see the doctor for your hospital check up. They will also accompany you on short walks or outings. It’s all about you, as an individual! | Classification(s): Care, Intermediate / after hospital care, Home from hospital | Info last updated: 14/03/2011. |
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