We want everyone, whatever your age, to have the support you need to live independently, and well. People are living longer than they used to, and we have a key role to help older people live well.
Hertfordshire County Council and Essex County Council work together with health and care organisations across our integrated care system to ensure good health and care services are provided.
This page highlights some information you might find useful. Please visit the Hertfordshire County Council website or Essex County Council website for more detailed information on adult health and social care services.
Living with, or caring for someone with dementia
Dementia is a general term for a group of symptoms, such as loss of memory or problems with thinking or language, that interfere with daily life. It can include changes to mood, emotions and perceptions. Dementia can affect people at any age, but it is most common in older people over the age of 65.
It’s normal for your memory to be impacted by everyday things, like tiredness and stress. But if it’s affecting daily life, and you are becoming increasingly forgetful, or you feel like you are not understanding things as well as you did before, you should get help from your GP.
Possible symptoms of dementia are listed on the NHS website. Our county councils in Hertfordshire and west Essex have lots of advice to support people with dementia, and there are local services and activities that can help. Visit the Hertfordshire County Council website or explore the Essex County Council website.
Memory cafes
Memory cafes are social gatherings in community settings for people who might be worried about memory loss. They offer a chance to meet new people, enjoy a hot drink, and get advice and support.
If you live in Hertfordshire and would like to find a memory cafe near you, contact HertsHelp who will be able to put you in touch. Email HertsHelp or call them 0300 123 4044.
If you live in west Essex, call the Alzheimer’s Society on 0333 150 3456.
Preventing a fall
There is lots you can do to avoid having a painful fall that can stop you from carrying out your everyday activities. The NHS website has advice on how to do this, including changes that can be made at home, and exercises to improve balance and strength.
Those living in Hertfordshire might find it useful to visit Hertfordshire County Council’s website, which highlights local services that can help those at risk of falling.
If you live in west Essex, there is walking and mobility advice on the Essex County Council website, including how to contact Adult Social Care to discuss your care and support needs.
Mental health support for older people
The Let’s Talk leaflets have been created by the Hertfordshire and West Essex Integrated Care System Suicide Prevention Programme to raise awareness of depression in later life and to reduce the stigma around talking about suicide with older people. Download the leaflets below.
Let’s talk: Are you worried about the mental health of an older person you know? (739kB pdf)