Public health news: Age friendly communities

Public Health News: December 2023

South Tyneside Council started their age friendly journey with the Centre for Ageing Better in March 2022.

Age-friendly communities are places where people of all ages can live healthy and active lives. These communities make it possible for people to stay in their homes, participate in the activities that they value and contribute to their communities, for as long as possible.'

A local baseline survey was completed in April 2023. The results were shared at four events across the borough, where residents, community organisations, and some service leads had the opportunity to validate the survey findings.

In order to complete a joint strategic needs assessment (JSNAA), as well as an age friendly community's strategy and action plan, representatives from partner organisations came together on 17 October to discuss how the concerns from the baseline survey align with existing priorities and workstreams.

These documents will be presented to the Health and Wellbeing Board in January 2024.

Examples of emerging actions included:

• Co-produce an age friendly check list for different types of venues
• Help residents to report concerns over footpaths
• Help residents to book a journey on public transport
• Promote and increase volunteering opportunities
• Provide opportunities to improve digital skills
• Refresh the physical activity strategy encouraging older people to remain active

The International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) takes place on 1 October every year.

This year began with the raising of the age friendly flag and lighting up the Town Hall in purple.

This was followed by a series of events led by Age Concern Tyneside South (ACTS) and Public Health, which saw a number of experts visiting a range of community venues such as the Welcoming Places between 2 and 7 October.