Life Changes
As you get older your life will inevitably change, but there’s a lot you can do to maintain your independence and stay mobile. There may also be changes in your relationships. You may need your partner to become your carer (or vice versa), or you may have to cope with the bereavement of loved ones.
In any of these circumstances it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. There are many organisations that offer help and advice. Click on the links below for more information.
Staying mobile
As you get older you may not be as agile as you were a few years ago. You may find that you can’t get out and go to the shops or meet friends like you used to. You could start to feel lonely and isolated. There are many schemes that can help you to go out and enjoy your life. Click on the links below for more information.
Caring for someone else
Being a carer is a big responsibility, and can be hard to cope with when you’re getting older. You may find yourself being a carer for your spouse, other family members, a neighbour or a friend. As your role changes it’s important to remember that you’re not alone, and that asking for help isn’t a sign of failure of weakness.
You can ask us for a carers’ assessment. We’ll look at your situation and this will help us to see if you’re entitled to any of our services and support.
There are also other organisations and charities which can provide you with support and advice. Click on the links below
- Help yourself directory – lists carer organisations in Sheffield
When a loved one dies
It’s never an easy time for anyone when someone close to them dies. It’s especially hard if you’ve been with that person many years. Even an expected death can come as a shock.
It’s very important that you look after yourself and get as much support as possible, and remember it’s going to be a gradual process – grieving takes time. Your doctor will be able to help you if you feel you’re not coping.
There are a number of practicalities that need to be attended to after someone dies. There’s plenty of organisations which offer support and advice on these. These may be made easier by preparing your legal matters and wills in advance if you can.
Click on the links below for more information
Maintaining your independence
One of the most important things people worry about when they get older is staying in their own home. We may be able to help you if you need help with daily tasks such as getting dressed, cleaning or cooking a meal. You can contact our Adult Access Team on (0114) 273 4908 for more information.
You may also be able to get payments to buy the support we think you need- these are called direct payments. Or you might want to make the decision yourself about what support you want - this is called self directed support.
You can request a copy of our ‘guide to independent living in Sheffield’ by contacting the Communications Team on (0114) 273 4969 or email nccinfo@sheffield.gov.uk
You can also get lots of useful information from your doctor or nurse about services available to you in your community.
There are lots of services in Sheffield available to help you. Click on the links below for more information
- Our adult Access Team
- Our home support service - Care4you
- Direct payments
- Self directed support
- Our sensory impairment team - Our information for people with hearing and visual impairments.
- Our equipment and adaptations team
- Home support providers
- Meals delivery services
- Buying your own care
- Age concern
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