Older people (health and wellbeing needs in South Tyneside)

Felt need and expressed need is what people say they want and request of service.

In 2022 South Tyneside undertook a baseline survey and follow up validation events based on the eight themes of the WHO age friendly communities.

1. Outdoor spaces and buildings

• Public spaces are easy to visit, green spaces are well looked after, and street lighting is generally good.
• Would like more benches, litter bins and toilets.
• Want to feel safer when out and about, with better footpath accessibility.

2. Transport

Some choose to drive because public transport can be problematic. Examples include:

• Difficulty booking a journey due to digital technology or a disability.
• Getting to the bus stop requires more places to sit or shelter.
• Journey quality varies because of changes to or their ability to read the timetables.
• Difficulties getting on, taking a seat, or knowing when to get off public transport.

3. Housing

• The majority would like to stay in their own home as they age but will need help to make it suitable and are not sure what help is available.
• A need to make better use of touch points to instigate future proofing.
• South Tyneside needs different types of housing in general, such as more family homes and bungalows.

4. Social participation

• There is a good range of affordable activities.
• Lots of supportive organisations.
• Would like more opportunity to contribute to what is going in the area.
• More opportunities to mix with others.

5. Respect and inclusion

• There are opportunities for younger people and older people to learn from each other.
• Not everyone can make their voice heard.
• Older people sometimes feel that others talk down to them or address their family / carer not them.

6. Civic participation

• There are opportunities to volunteer.
• There are educational classes but they to be at different times.
• Need more suitable employment opportunities for older people.

7. Communication and information

• There is information available, but there could be more.
• Information needs to be simple.
• Don't over rely on IT for everything.

8. Community and health

• Generally, a good sense of community but less pride in the area, than there once was.
• Shops generally make older people feel welcome, but there could be a better choice of shops.
• Can be hard to find out about entitlements.
• Can be hard to book a GP and dental appointment.
• Some people don't know how to find out what care is available.