Engage Summer 2020 AgeUK Buckinghamshire Covid-19 Special

engage age uk magazine summer 2020

Covid-19 Special includes

your lockdown stories!

3-page special

AGE UK BUCKINGHAMSHIRE NEWS + let’s get talking + the big knit + MUCH MORE INSIDE

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“The Hospice made me feel safe.”

“When I think back to when my husband was dying of a brain tumour, he was so ill and in so much pain, when we arrived at the Hospice it was like the safety was there. I felt safe for him and myself. They were so kind, so understanding, really helpful,” says Sue Merrison, whose husband Ron was cared for in Florence Nightingale Hospice in Aylesbury and then by the Hospice nurses at home for his last two days.

“It was so frightening, and I am not a person that gets frightened of big things, but I was scared out of my wits. I felt sometimes, “I can’t do anything, I don’t know what to do!” And I think then because they were just there, because I had the phone next to me, I knew I only had to call that number and you just feel they are sitting there holding your hand.

“Without them, he wouldn’t have had the peaceful end that he had, and I wouldn’t have been as calm, if you like. And I wasn’t frightened once he went into the Hospice, the fear of what would happen sort of went away because they were just there.

“I don’t think people are aware of what a hospice does until sadly you have to use one...the care in a Hospice is different because they are specially trained for end of life care so there’s that more intimate care. They can build up a closer friendship – you will have a mainly one-to-one nurse so you’re not seeing constant changes of people and they are able to talk and explain better. I think in a normal hospital you can’t give end of life care at that level, there’s just too much else going on. We need a hospice for people who are dying, basically, that’s what they do.

“There is a huge difference in the way the Hospice operates. The speed with which they respond to the news that your family now requires the care in a hospice. There’s no waiting times. It’s very quiet, they have their own room so you can have quality time and endless time with your loved one.

And it’s just that privacy but that constant knowledge that someone who knows exactly what they are doing is just outside the door.

“You have to be very special to be a nurse in a Hospice, to do that level of care and genuine kindness doesn’t come easily. The Hospice allowed him to come home for the last two days of his life, and they sent nurses with me to care for him at home, that was his wish, and he got his wish, but only because of the Hospice.”

For more information about how to access any of the services offered by Florence Nightingale Hospice, from Bereavement Support, palliative care and end of life care at home or in the Hospice, go to www.fnhospice.org.uk

Supporting total hospice care for local people

Registered Charity no: 1119499

Ron and his grandson on a day out before his illness

engage

Contents Summer 2020 Foreword …................................. p.5 from our CEO

Brain Training ….......................... p.6 Train your brain with our 20 fun questions.

Volunteer and Job Ads ….......... p.7 Adverts for welfare benefits volunteers, fundraising and Help in the Home Jobs.

Community Events …................. p.8 News from local areas.

Covid-19 …................................... p.9 Isolation and you.

Lockdown! Your …............... p.10-12 stories in a 3 page special.

Readers and volunteers experiences of being in lockdown.

4 | Summer 2020

All Things Bright and ….......... p.13 Beautiful Your garden and plant photos brighten up our day.

Nutrition during ….................... p.14 Lockdown Nutritious foodstuffs to help you stay healthy during lockdown.

Ask Julie …................................. p.15 A happy article all about how laughter can help you.

V.E Day 2020 …......................... p.16 Nutrition and You. The Big Knit ............................... p.17 Our member of staff Julie answers YOUR questions.

Services AgeUK Bucks ............. p.18 Information about the services we offer.

Let’s Get Talking ....................... p.19 Our letters page. Join in the conversation!

Keep on Moving ….................. p.20 Gentle exercises you can do from the comfort of your own home Useful Contact Numbers ........ p.21 Cut out and keep.

A page of really useful numbers you may find helpful. .

FUNdraising News ….............. p.22 Fundraising updates and Ideas.

www.ageukbucks.org.uk

Meet the team…

Editor

Caroline Cunningham-Oakes Tel: 01296 431911 Email: ccunninghamoakes@ ageukbucks.org.uk

Age UK Buckinghamshire 145 Meadowcroft Aylesbury Buckinghamshire HP19 9HH Tel: 01296 431911 Fax: 01296 330783 Email: age@ageukbucks.org.uk www.ageukbucks.org.uk

Advertising

Laurence Tel: 01536 334218 Email: laurence@lanceprint.co.uk

Publisher Lance Print Ltd 1st Floor Tailby House Bath Road Kettering NN16 8NL Tel: 01536 334220 Email: mike@lanceprint.co.uk www.lanceprint.co.uk

Printer Lance Print Ltd Tel: 01733 390564

This magazine is produced on behalf of Age UK Buckinghamshire by Lance Print Ltd. All rights are reserved by the charity and no part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission of the charity. Age UK Buckinghamshire will accept no responsibility for, or necessarily agree with, any claims made or views expressed in this publication, nor does the mention of any product, service or advertisement imply a recommendation by Age UK Buckinghamshire. Reg. Charity No. 1078539

You can keep in touch in a number of ways Email us at age@ageukbucks.org.uk Follow us on Face Book at https:// www.facebook.com/ageukbucks Follow us on Instagram at https:// www.instagram.com/ageukbucks Telephone us on 01296 431 911 @ageukbucks @ageukbucks

Foreword from the CEO Welcome to this Special Su mmer edition of Engage

As the only countywide charity that supports older people in Buckinghamshire, we witness situations daily where frail, vulnerable and older adults struggle to navigate the challenges that later life can bring. Since March this year, our community has been tested to its limits as we have re-focussed our services to respond to the current COVID-19 global pandemic safely and within her Majesty’s Government guidelines. This unprecedented crisis has rocked the health and social care sector and in particular those older adults that we exist to support. We know that sustained loneliness and lack of social connection leads to physical and mental health issues. Many people affected by the social lockdown previously lived independent and connected lives. We are here for you and our vision is to make Buckinghamshire a great place to live in as we age. We cannot do this without the support from individuals and communities.

I have been overwhelmed by the positive response to the current crisis from individuals, villages and communities in coming together to support our older adults thrive and survive this difficult period and on behalf of Age UK Buckinghamshire thank all people who have offered to help at this time of crisis.

suppor ting older people since 1945

We would like to thank all those people who have made donations during this time and offered to give your time to help us through this period.

All donations received at Age UK Buckinghamshire directly contribute to our key services all of which remain open to new referrals and enquiries. These include: l First Contact – just telephone or e-mail us with your enquiries. Our staff are working from home but continue to have access to all the help you need l Welfare Benefits – our staff and volunteers can still help you to claim benefit entitlement during this period l Befriending – due to social distancing guidelines we have temporarily switched to telephone Befriending and continue to support over 300 older people to stay connected with their volunteer and with us. l Help in the Home– we are working within Government guidelines and plan to re-connect cleaners and foot health practitioners when it is safe to do so l Gardening – if you need help from a gardener, you can contact us now and we can get this arranged

We are open for business and we are here to help you – do keep an eye on our website for further updates and information you might need https://www.ageuk. org.uk/buckinghamshire Our Summer edition includes a number of stories of local people and their reflections of the current situation. These are heart-warming and positive stories that we hope you enjoy.

Please do keep sending them to us, we love to hear from you and get a better understanding of how you have managed during this difficult period.

One final note – The Big Knit is back for 2021, get your knitting needles to the ready. Last year we had an exceptional response to this programme and we would love you to get involved again. For further details/ patterns contact Caroline on ccunninghamoakes@ ageukbucks.org.uk I hope you enjoy the Summer edition of Engage and please get in touch if you would like any information about anything within this issue.

Berna dett e A sh croft summer 2020 | 5

engage

Brain Trainer I

ntroducing something new to our magazine, the AgeUK Bucks brain trainer quiz. Give your brain a little workout! With our quiz page! Questions vary from trivia, sport, food, film, world, history, the arts. Our quizzes are a great way to Test yourself!

Test your friends! And bring people together.

Question 13

Which jubilee will Queen Elizabeth II celebrate in 2012?

In the film ‘Nanny McPhee’, who played the actual character Nanny McPhee?

Question 9

Question 14

Question 19

What is the most popular name of public houses in Great Britain?

Question 3

Which element is coal mainly composed of?

In the film ‘Meet The Parents’ who plays the role of Greg?

Question 4

In which country was the fashion designer Coco Chanel born?

Question 10

Question 5

Which vegetable is zucchini better known as?

How many rings are there in the Olympic Games symbol?

In which American state is Harvard University located?

Question 11

What name is given to a female swan?

Q16 Asymetric Digital Subscriber Line Q17 Tallahassee Q18 Emma Thompson Q19 Scotland

Q20 Tennis 6 | Summer 2020

Question 8

Which dish is battered deep-fried squid rings known as?

What is the name of the most sacred river in India?

Question 15

Which famous singer married the movie director Guy Ritchie?

Question 16

Question 17

What is the capital of the State of Florida?

Question 18

Where in Britain is St Andrews University located?

Question 20

Which sport is Novak Djokovic famous for playing?

What does the computer abbreviation ADSL stand for?

Q11 A pen Q12 Calamari Q13 Diamond Q14 Ganges Q15 Madonna

Who invented the lightning conductor?

Answers

Question 12

What do the rings on the Olympic Games symbol represent?

Question 2

Question 6

Question 7

Q6 Five Q7 The continents Q8 The Red Lion Q9 Ben Stiller Q10 Massachusetts

Who became president of the USA in 1963?

All of the answers are at the bottom of the page (remember, no cheating)!

Q1 Lyndon B. Johnson Q2 Benjamin Franklin Q3 Carbon Q4 France Q5 Courgette

Question 1

QUIZ

www.ageukbucks.org.uk

Vacancies

Welfare Benefits Volunteers

Do you have 2-3 hours a week to help older people in Buckinghamshire?

We are currently looking for Welfare Benefit Volunteers in the Chiltern, Wycombe and South Bucks Districts!

Many older people struggle financially because they do not maximise their incomes by claiming the welfare benefits to which they are entitled. Within this role, you would visit clients in their own home and help them through the process of claiming benefits such as Attendance Allowance.

with a more experienced volunteer to observe and then advise before taking on one-to-one visits.

If you are interested in this volunteer position then please contact Sue Gehnich on: sgehnich@ageukbucks.org.uk or telephone 01296 431911. More information on our website: www.ageukbucks.org.uk

You will need to be empathetic, non-judgemental, patient and professional with a friendly and approachable manner. Attention to detail, good record keeping and a willingness to learn about older people’s benefits is vital.

You can commit to as many visits a week as you wish, with each visit taking around 2-3 hours. We will provide training to successful applicants and at the end of the initial training you will be “buddied”

© Shutterstock/rawpixel.com

Freelance Home Helpers

Do you want to help the older members of our community whilst earning money?

We are looking for self-employed Home Helpers, in High Wycombe, Amersham and Chesham.

When older people are unable to look after their homes and need help with cleaning, Age UK Buckinghamshire provide friendly, competent Home Helpers as regularly as they wish.

in the Home Coordinator) on zstevenson@ ageukbucks.org.uk or call on 01296 438416.

You can also download the application form from our website: www.ageukbucks.org.uk

Local Help in the Home agents are needed to provide help with general cleaning, laundry, prescription collection and shopping for older people in Buckinghamshire.

We are looking for committed, caring and personable adults who want to help older people whilst earning. You will be a self-employed freelance agent, Disclosure and Barring Scheme (DBS) checked and able to provide references.

For more information and an application form please contact Zoe Stevenson (Help

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summer 2020 | 7

engage

CHANGING

PLACES

CARERS’ SUPPORT GROUP For those people caring for elderly relatives with dementia

We meet on the first Tuesday evening of the month at The Princes Risborough Community Centre in the Committee Room from 7.30-10.30pm and refreshments are provided.

Dates in 2020 7 April ​​​

7 July 4 August 1 September

​​​ ​​​

5 May ​​​ 2 June​​​

Background

Changing Places offers monthly group support for you as a carer of an older person eg a parent or grandparent with dementia and it is completely free and confidential.

It provides you with information, support and advice from the group and it is friendly and welcoming.

Contact details Coordinator: Heather Dempsey

Email:

heather.dempsey@btinternet.com

WE LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU 8 | Summer 2020

www.ageukbucks.org.uk

By Blackboard. © Shutterstock

Venue details

THE LOCKDOWN during the covid-19 coronavirus pandemic Everyone in the UK, the World, experienced what an older person living on their own lives with but on a long term basis.

Isolation We all have experienced it for ourselves if for a short term.

A few months of staying at home, alone or not you can still feel lonely.

At some point in our lives we will be or feel isolated as our lives evolve through whatever path we take as we get older.

For most of us, we have returned to our busy lives. Things we do on a day to day basis have resumed as normal.

For those older people who cannot do that, their lives resume as normal and continue as before.

So, what did we learn from this and how can we grow by helping our elders who are lonely and live like this day in and day out?

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summer 2020 | 9

engage THE LOCKDOWN Heart Warming Stories from real people, shared whilst the nation was in lockdown We have received a plethora of delightful stories from our readers who wanted to share their experiences/stories during the lockdown.

Belated birthday wishes A very belated and Happy Birthday to Madge who was 82 in April. Madge is a long time member from the Gt Missenden Lunch Club.

Julie Needle, who runs the lunch club very kindly took the gifts to Madge who received a lovely card, and a little bag of goodies - chocolates, some magazines, and a bar of rose scented Roget and Gallet soap.

just as a neighbour was delivering some flowers, “so Iwearrived sang Happy Birthday to Madge, from a safe distance of course. ” Needless to say Madge was very pleased with the visit, and looking forward to the days when the Lunch Club is open again....

Clapping for carers

Thursday evenings at 8pm have become quite a joyous event for everyone. Myself included. Clapping our NHS frontline workers and carers.

All Aboard.!!...

One of our readers- a Miniature Steam Train Fanatic shares a story and some photos of his long life passion for trains and the trainset which- encompasses almost his entire garden!

My passion for all things ‘Railway’ started when I lived with my Grandparents at 3 years old. I remember sitting on the fence near the railway station at Winslow and watching the trains come and go. It was my life -long ambition to be a train driver but as I grew up and life took its course I became a carpenter, raised a family and enjoyed many trips to different parts of the country. I loved the different landscapes and changing scenery.

In the 1980’s, I decided to re-create the beauty of our country in my back garden. I designed the garden to include the rolling hills of Wales and the beauty of England – starting small and making do with unwanted toys and bric a brac, I build my first engine. Slowly, slowly over the years I built my dream model railway in my very own back garden. I was also lucky to have Garden Railway Specialists close by in Princes Risborough, an Aladdin’s cave for railway enthusiasts.

Once again, life took its course and in recent years, my attention was diverted to care for my dear wife who sadly passed away at the end of last year. I now have time on my hands and would love to get back to my life’s passion. This is going to be tough as I have not been able to give my Garden Railway the attention it needs and in the last winter the heavy rain and wind caused damage and overgrowth of weeds. It will be difficult, as my joints are not the same as they once were…but…again little by little, step by step, I will transform my Railway spectacular back to its former glory…..

If you live locally to Winslow and share Terry’s passion for model railways, with little of time to spare we would love to hear from you. Just contact Age UK Buckinghamshire or email bashcroft@ageukbucks.org.uk

Residents from one street in Buckinghamshire, many of them octogenarians in this street clap for carers, at a safe distance with one resident playing the accordion in their honour. How wonderful.

1 0 | Summer 2020

www.ageukbucks.org.uk

THE LOCKDOWN

NOT OVER THE HILL AT 70.

Since Covid 19 it has become a habit to class anyone over 70yrs is a separate species that needs ‘shielding’. Those of us over 70yrs and in my case in my 80th, who are still very fit, do not like this label.

As a keen traveller I spend this February in Ecuador.

My aim was to get some sunshine and to improve my Spanish. I went to Montenita, a real fun place for surfers, nightclubbers and students. In the 1st week it became obvious that 3 hours Spanish lessons would not keep me occupied enough. I was a bit old for surfing and I also thought for volunteering. Much to my surprise I was accepted to work for 4 hours a day in an aquarium, which was like a dream come true. My hours were from 8am to 12 and I had a half hour bus journey to get there. My main job was to prepare and feed the animals and apart from chopping up octopus and squirts the joy was always to feed and talk to the animals. Apart from the normal aquatic animals we also had animals that were injured and some like a giant tortoise from the Galapagos, that came over for breeding. The saddest thing was when we lost a 30-yearold tortoise, who had a fish hock in its throat and after some days it died. My boss, a marine biologist, asked me to assist him with the autopsy by taking photos, so the reason for death could be established. We also did an autopsy on a big octopus. We had some small black sea turtles in 2 tanks. They needed to be weight and brushed with a toothbrush once a week as they suffered from a parasite.

Our vet managed to fix a broken wing of a young pelican.

It was such a joy when the pelican was released. Such operations are mostly unsuccessful, and we had 2 other who can never be released. One pelican was blind in one eye. We had 2 crocodiles and one boa constrictor, who never moved thanks god.

When I had finished my work at the aquarium, I took the bus home, bought a large dish of fruit and ate it overlooking the beach. After a little rest it was time to go to classes.

After class we usually stopped off at a coffee shop with the most delicious cakes. I had breakfast and evening meal with the family I stayed with and they were a very nice family and really spoilt me. In the evening I walked along the beach for an hour or so. On a Friday I meet up with fellow students for drinks and weekends I either went with my family or other students to the beach in other villages. It was a wonderful life even so it was a full 8-hour day.

Karoline Lamb

Help is at hand

When ‘lockdown’ commenced my daughter’s concern for me (because she lives away) evaporated when she found the Winslow Support group through FB. It was easy for her to arrange for shopping and the ‘essential’ chocolate for Easter to be delivered to my door by lovely neighbours. The group’s page soon added lists of local businesses and I am able to get deliveries from the Farm Deli and Molly’s Pantry. I also know should I want a take-away, prescription, or plants delivered I only have to pick up the phone or email. People share advice on supermarket deliveries and who can help with emergency repairs. It’s all very reassuring.

I’m not used to being supported, I’m a volunteer and I found it hard to accept that, due to my age, I had to be on the ‘receiving’ end. However there were things I could do and as I sorted out drawers and cupboards I was able to provide materials, buttons and haberdashery to those making scrub bags and hairbands, I found games and craft materials for neighbours’ children and I am able to contribute to the St Laurence Food Cupboard. And when the Charity shops re-open I have bags of ‘stuff’ ready to drop off as well as books for Claydon House. Small things that enable me to support those supporting others.

I greatly appreciate living in this caring community where nobody need go hungry and where so much help is at hand.

Glenys

Still young at heart

I myself, wanted to share a story about my nana. We are very close and since my papa died not so long ago she has been living on her own. So naturally I have been worried about her being lonely.

Ida appears to manage very well so she tells me and, has a great community surrounding her where she lives who look out for her.

Which is GREAT…so there is no need to worry. Neighbours, during the lockdown were and are still able to bring her the food items she needs and drop them at her front door.

This was when I learnt about the tips and tricks when handling food items during this Coronavirus pandemic which, I now put into practice myself.

It begins with “bleach everything”! Using a spray bleach (wearing gloves, of course), cleaning the shopping bag, JUST to be sure as the virus can live on surfaces for hours.

It’s a great method to use.

During the lockdown- I did wonder if nana was getting enough exercise - was I wrong about that!

She is remarkable for her age. In her late 80’s, and now telling me over the phone “I just did another 1500 steps today, Line”.

Always keeping herself busy anyway which possible, “I set myself a daily target to keep myself busy”.

A fantastic plan of action there and very inspiring. Since going to print, my nana has been in hospital. She is no out and manages her pain the best she can. I cannot wait to see her again once lockdown restrictions are lifted further.

Phone calls are a lifeline right now. But nothing compares to a cuddle.

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engage THE LOCKDOWN

I

Acts of Kindness

Sandie from the befriending team at AUKB came to see me and then chose the person who was to start visiting me; she arranged for the three of us to meet at my home and determined that we would be compatible with one another.

My new befriender, Katrina and I got on very well from the start and began to set out on a programme of mainly weekly visits. As we were of different generations, it made our conversations the more interesting. I learned how a modern family lives, which was very different from my own experience of family life during and after WW2. Katrina and I first met Helen in September last year, I remember our very I soon discovered common enthusiasms, we had both been first introduction which was arranged by our coordinator, members of a choir and both of us had been involved in Sandie. Helen welcomed both of us into her home, we were flower arranging and looked at photographs of our efforts. taken into her cosy kitchen where she had set the table with a lovely afternoon tea of sandwiches and cake. I remember Katrina would sometimes take me to my local branch of thinking what a kind and thoughtful thing to do!

M&S for a food shop together; somehow, I also seemed to need lots of new pyjamas! On these occasions, we This first meeting is designed to see if perhaps there would be opportunities for us to get to know each other and for me would have lunch out in a modest but good local eatery. to support Helen with anything she might need and a time to An unforeseen benefit of starting to go out again was that I would meet old friends quite casually. We have attended see what we both thought we might get out of befriending. lunches together in my local church where Katrina became Helen is a very intelligent lady with a positive attitude, she acquainted with some of my old friends. We soon had quite still has a real zest for life and I really liked that, I could tell a lot in common. The GP had been right. Since meeting that we were going to get along as I also share her positive Katrina gradually, my health improved. I felt much fitter attitude to life - I left that first meeting thoroughly looking and I could do many more little jobs around the house and forward to making plans for our next meet up. seemed to be able walk farther too.

Before the time of lockdown, I would go to Helen’s house, Recently the Coronavirus situation has interrupted our where we chat and then we usually go a coffee and lovely routine. I did not expect Katrina to visit me under the sometimes we find somewhere nice for lunch. This was the circumstances of observing government guidelines so we start of what we now call our weekly adventures together. have developed a new routine. She has collects my small Helen set up a ‘friendship lunch’ every week at her local shopping list and would kindly bring me it back to me, she church quite a number of years ago and it blossomed, she would then sit in her car on my drive with the door open on is still involved and it is still going strong today! I have joined while I sat on a chair at the door. I really look forward so Helen on a number of occasions and have met some of her much to our contact during the long period of lockdown. friends, I have also witnessed how much pleasure these Katrina has shown over and over again the greatest of lunches give to the community by bringing people together - kindness to me. I am grateful beyond measure to Age UK it is wonderful.

Bucks and my friend Katrina and for a healthier, happier and more interesting life.

Even though we have only known each other for 8 months, I feel we have built up a strong friendship, Helen is a remarkable lady and there is not a time that I have spent with her that I have not learnt something from her. In many ways, she has brought some peace and joy into my life too, with her gentle personality, her care, her kindness, and wicked sense of humour and this is something to be treasured. Most of all, Helen has enriched my life and I hope I have gone some way to enrich hers. first enrolled with Age UK Bucks a year ago, I had read about their Befriending service and I thought it might be something I would like to get involved with as my three sons are now grown up and I had more time to myself. I was already volunteering for a local Hospice but I wanted to do something else and be more involved with people in the community who perhaps needed some company and someone to talk to so I thought the role of a befriender would suit me well.

Last autumn, my GP suggested that I might benefit from a bit more social interaction. She gave me the telephone number of Age UK’s Befriender Service. For a while, I did nothing because I could not imagine any beneficial results.

Eventually I rang the number, and I am so glad I did as it was one of those life changing moments.

1 2 | Summer 2020

www.ageukbucks.org.uk

All things bright and beautiful What a refreshing read!

T

hank you to those of you who have contributed photographs flowers, plants, bushels in your gardens, on your walks and even in your home. They have really made a lovely feature to our Instagram page, Facebook page and a refreshing read for our Engage readers.

Please email you photographs to the Engage Editor.

Caroline ccunninghamoakes@ageukbucks.org.uk

As the months advance into summer, the flowers, plants and shrubbery will change.

It would be lovely to continue to see the photographs of you favourite plants and flowers as the seasons change.

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lockdown D

during During the lockdown, we all tend to exercise less and sit around a whole lot more.

iet-wise we may have found ourselves resorting to eating a little more processed foods and a whole lot less healthier foods than we normally would. Everything in moderation. Treats always allowed but in moderation. A healthy heart starts right here. The lockdown has made it difficult for a lot of people and diets have been challenging.

If you find you tick ALL of the above and want to maintain a healthy regime/diet during lockdown-then read on!

Those include beans, legumes, fruits and vegetables which makes a diet rich in fibre helping in reducing the risk of heart disease. Include lots of leafy green vegetables also in your diet.

Cut down on cigarettes and alcohol These are detrimental to one’s health and increase the risk of obesity, diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure) and heart disease

Decrease those processed foods and increase your consumption of red and www.amershammuseum.org blue berries. Berries like strawberries, blueberries, blackberries,for one, they In order to keep your heart healthy-you are LOADED with antioxidants. will benefit from cutting right down on and even cutting out fatty foods.

What exactly IS an antioxidant?

Look to increase your levels of omega 3 so, plenty of fish, sea food, flax seeds, chia seeds, walnuts, soybeans.

Cut down on those refined grains such as white rice, white bread, regular white pasta, and other foods that have been made with white flour also included in pastries and sweet foods. Replace those with delicious whole grains.

1 4 | Summer 2020

May help improve blood sugar and insulin response They are high in fibre, nutrients and help fight inflammation. They may also help lower cholesterol.

www.ageukbucks.org.uk

Ask

Julie

Q

During the recent lockdown period I was self-isolating but as I do not do online banking I had difficulty paying people for shopping they were getting for me. I did not want to give my bankcard and details to people to get cash for me or to use in supermarkets. Have you any ideas about this?

Y

ou are right in not sharing your bank details with other people and there are some non-on line options available to get cash or pay for shopping.

The Post Office has a cash delivery service to help vulnerable customers which has been introduced with the help of the DWP. If you receive benefits such as State Pension, you can get cash delivered to you.

You must be a Post Office Account holder to access this service.

You need to contact the DWP to request this cash delivery service (0800 024 1222).

If you are a Post Office account holder you can set up a ‘permanent agent’ over the phone to enable a trusted 3rd party to collect money on your behalf. (0345 722 3344) All banks have been offering more telephone support services and some have launched a cash delivery service. At the time of writing, these were Barclays, Nat West and Tesco.

Some banks will provide a second bank card to be given to a trusted person which can have a set amount of money on it.

You do not need to give the person your card details or PIN. Nat West, RBS and Ulster bank call these Carers cards and will set them up over the phone.

The following is from ‘Which’ showing how banks are supporting vulnerable customers at this time.

RBS

0800 051 4177 Dedicated support line for customers over 70 or those in isolation, and a separate service for NHS workers.

NatWest 0800 051 4176 Dedicated support line for customers over 70 or those in isolation, and a separate service for NHS workers.

Ulster NI

0800 092 4238 Dedicated support line for customers over 70 or those in isolation, and a separate service for NHS workers.

Santander

0800 9 123 123 Has redeployed a number of staff to support its contact centre team and will continue to do so to meet consumer demand.

Barclays

03457 345 345

Directing resource to support phones lines. In-branch teams are also supporting this activity.

suppor ting older people since 1945

HSBC 0345 404 404 Vulnerable customers who contact the bank may be referred to a specialist support team.

TSB 03459 758 758 Using some in-branch staff to help on phones and moving resource around to help the frontline.

Metro Bank

0345 08 08 500 Customer-support trained staff are being asked to offer support on helplines. The bank is looking at opportunities to train up existing colleagues. It’s also recruiting to increase the number of helpline staff. Its helpline is available Monday to Friday from 8am to 9 am for vulnerabble customers and over 70s only.

Lloyds Bank 0800 056 0045 New service for over-70s, vulnerable and NHS workers to offer support to those who need it most.

Halifax

0345 720 3040 New service for over 70s, vulnerable and NHS workers to offer support to those who need it most.

Bank of Scotland 0345 721 3141 New service for over-70s, vulnerable and NHS workers to offer support to those who need it most.

Co-operative Bank 03457 212 212 Reviewing branch and telephone opening hours to ensure it can serve customers who need to use banking services.

Nationwide

0800 30 20 11 Deploying additional resource to help with the increased demand, while hundreds of staff have volunteered to support customers. in the process of setting up dedicated coronavirus helpline.

Monzo 0800 023 4567 Continuing to offer support via the telephone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Many supermarkets have introduced ‘volunteer shopping cards’ designed specifically to help at-risk customers pay friends, family and neighbours who shop for them. Tesco became the latest to launch one of these cards, following Aldi, Asda, Co-op, Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury’s and Waitrose. Morrisons recommends buying its usual vouchers. Most of these ‘cards’ are actually virtual vouchers, which work in the same way as other e-gift cards.

With the exception of the Co-op card, which you can order on the phone (08000 294 592), you buy volunteer shopping cards online and send the details to your volunteer’s email address for them to use in store. Your volunteer does not need to spend the full balance of the card each time they shop; the remaining amount will stay on the card, so you could load it with enough money for multiple trips if you wanted. With Asda’s volunteer card, you can also top it up on the internet, so you don’t have to buy a new one each time. With others, you will have to purchase a new evoucher each time the balance gets used up. If your volunteer would prefer to have a physical gift card, perhaps because they don’t have access to the internet, you can order a regular gift card to be posted to them from Morrisons.

If you have any issues, queries questions you would like to ask our Julie here at AgeUK Bucks, please do ask in confidence.

Names will not be published and all matters will be dealt with in the strictest of confidence.You can send your email subject ‘ask julie’ To age@ageukbucks.org.uk

summer 2020 | 15

engage

It was 75 years since the guns fell silent at the end of the war in Europe.

And between the 8th and the 10th of May 2020 the nation celebrated 75 years of V.E day.

This time with a slight difference, it was in lockdown.

Families, individuals observed the 2 minute silence at 11am and those in the safety of their homes were able to when possible to mark the occasion at 3pm on the 8th along with the rest of the nation undertake the Nation’s Toast to the Heroes of WW II using the following words.

“TO THOSE WHO GAVE SO MUCH, WE THANK YOU,” using this unique opportunity to pay tribute to the many millions at home and abroad that gave so much to ensure we can all enjoy the freedom we share today..raise a toast! Raise a cup of tea!

1 6 | Summer 2020

www.ageukbucks.org.uk

The Big Knit another great pattern So, here we have it! Another great fun pattern from Innocent.

T

he Big Knit has not yet officially begun yet. The good news is do not be put off by this as they actively encourage everyone to look at their patterns now to give all you knitters plenty of time to knit/and crochet your projects. So you can start on your little hats if you so wish. Or, you can wait until Autumn next year when the Big Knit officially starts. They are already accepting the hats now! So, take your time on your projects, and if you like you can always look at our website for the entire catalogue of new patterns from Innocent. There are over 40 new designs on there. One of the new ones is the very sweet ‘Berry Fancy’ included in this magazine.

I do hope you enjoy this pattern.

Have fun with the knitting.

Send your hats toAge UK Buckinghamshire, 145 Meadowcroft, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP19 9HH

*we would also LOVE to see your progress/hats/or projects you are working (if it is not the Big Knit project) We are ALWAYS interested to hear from our readers. Please send your stories/photos of knitting projects/Big Knit projects and progress to ccunninghamoakes@ageukbucks.org.uk

suppor ting older people since 1945

summer 2020 | 17

engage

Neat Feet Footcare Providing toenail cutting and general footcare

We can direct you to local Footcare services for older people and people with a physical disability who can no longer manage to cut their own toenails. If you struggle to trim your toenails and you would like someone come to your home and cut them at a time that suits you, we can help.

Handyperson Service A service to help you maintain your home.

The aim of our Handyperson service is to enable older people in Buckinghamshire to remain in control of their home and their independence. If you have simple DIY jobs around the house that need doing our Handyperson service may be able to help.

Gardening Do you need help with your garden?

Our gardening service provides regular grass cutting throughout the growing season, together with general garden maintenance all year round. You will be referred to one of our local and trusted gardeners who will telephone you to arrange an appointment, at a time that is convenient to you.

Help in the Home Do you need help around the home?

Our Home Helpers can assist with general cleaning, vacuuming, laundry, shopping and prescription collections. You choose which tasks your Home Helper For more carries out for you each information call: week, supporting you to 01296 431911 or email: remain in control of age@ageukbucks.org.uk keeping your home the Information can also be way you like it to be. found on our website: www.ageukbucks. org.uk

1 8 | Summer 2020

www.ageukbucks.org.uk

Let’s Get T@lKing!

Real letters from real Engage readers.

© Shutterstock.com / vladwel

WE want to hear from you!

All letters/emails are kept 100% confidential.

If you have any letters/ stories/memories/ even handy hints and help around the home that you would like to send in for our letters page then please send them to the Editor.

C.Cunningham-Oakes AgeUK Buckinghamshire 145 Meadowcroft Aylesbury HP19 9HH

T h a n k you.

Dear AgeUK Bucks,

Dear AgeUK Bucks,

I live on my own in the Buckinghamshire area.

Since the lockdown, and the rules have been relaxed a little I feel quite anxious about leaving the house.

I have an elderly father who lives on his own he is still mobile and cares for himself. Prior to the lockdown I would visit him every week.

Since the lockdown, I have found being in my home my safe haven. And, have got used to not leaving the house.

I would like to return back to normal, realising that normal will not be as it was prior to the lockdown. It would be nice to feel safer and less anxious about leaving the house.

If you had any advice, that would be wonderful.

Thank you.

Joanne

Dear Joanne Thank you very much for your letter.

My advice would be to take each day 1 step at a time. Remember, you have been (along with the entire nation, the World) in lockdown. It is an unusual circumstance to find ourselves in and venturing outside or the thought of doing to is very daunting for you.

You need to perhaps, now we can go out a bit more since the restrictions on lockdown have been lifted try going for short walks. Maybe just do this a few times a week then every day.

If you decide you want to try shopping, I would start with local, smaller shops. Remember to keep social distancing (2m 6ft) where possible.

See how you get on from there and slowly build up to venturing to larger supermarkets when you need to go to them. You will in time get back into the swing of things except this time things are a little more different regarding the observation of the social distancing. Things won’t be exactly the same as before the lockdown as new rules are now in place. But do not let those rules dissuade you from going about your daily routine/life.

You can but try. I hope things work out for you and stay safe.

I’m finding it quite difficult not being able to see him during this time and find myself to be very tearful on days. We speak on the phone but in my mind I want to be there and see he alright.

He doesn’t have the internet so we do not have the option to Skype/Zoom/Facetime.

It is a worry. He says he is absolutely fine. I wish I had someone to talk to as I have no one else here to talk to at all.

Yours, Paul

Dear Paul I am sorry to hear that you are going through a difficult time in not being able to see your father. One thing that we all hope to look forward to is the day we can see and hug our loved ones. That day can come no sooner.

I can recommend some contact numbers, organisations for you regarding having someone to talk to.

You can phone one of us for a chat. We have a team of befrienders ready to listen and help you with advice. There is also Bucks MIND who also have a team ready to listen and help.

We also provide other services which may be of help to you.

The information is AgeUK Buckinghamshire Befriending Phone number: 01296 431 911 Email: age@ageukbucks.org.uk https://www.ageuk.org.uk/buckinghamshire/ Bucks MIND https://www.bucksmind.org.uk/ call 01494 463364 Email us at: info@bucksmind.org.uk AgeUK Bucks

AgeUK Bucks

suppor ting older people since 1945

summer 2020 | 19

Keep on Moving

Gentle exercises you can do from the comfort of your own home.

W

e all know moving more is good for us. But knowing the level of activity that’s right for you, especially if you’ve just had a fall, an operation, or are living with a long-term health condition, can be difficult.

Being more active isn’t about working up a sweat. It’s just about moving more each day in whatever way works for you. Below are some activities that could help.

Regular standing If you sit down a lot during the day, try to get up once an hour. If that’s not possible, moving your arms and legs for a few minutes will help.

Standing without help Work towards pushing up from sitting in a chair to a standing position without using a walker or leaning on someone else. l

Sit on a chair without arm rests, with your arms across your chest. l Lean forward. l Put your weight on your feet while leaning forward.

l

Stand up by straightening your knees.

Sit down again. l Repeat this as many times as you feel able. l Try to do this exercise 3 to 5 times a day.

Gentle stretches Try some gentle stretches in bed or a chair every day to keep supple. l

While sitting or lying, bring your toes towards your shin and then point them toward the floor. Repeat for both feet. l Sitting on a chair, lift your leg up off the seat, keeping your knee bent. Return to starting position and repeat. l Sitting on a chair, pull your toes up, tighten your thigh muscle and straighten your knee. Hold for about 5 seconds,

if you can, and then slowly relax your leg.

Repeat for both legs. l Sitting on a chair with your feet on the floor, bend your knee as much as possible. Repeat for both legs. l Sitting on a stool, let your back drop and get rounded, then use your back muscles to straighten your back and arch it (but not too much!).

Walking between rooms Walk from one room to another and back if you’re steady on your feet, and time how long it takes. Try to beat your time each day.

Source https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/health-wellbeing/exercise/simple-exercises-inactive-adults/

2 0 | Summer 2020

www.ageukbucks.org.uk

By Jeysent © Shutterstock

engage

Useful Contact Numbers Subject/Query Safety & Security

Organisation Details Thames Valley Police

Contact Number Emergency 999. Non-emergency 101

Safeguarding

Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub

0800 137915

Scams

Trading Standards

0300 123 2329

Home Fire Risk Checks

Bucks & Milton Keynes Fire & Rescue

01296 744477

Health and Wellbeing Memory Concerns

Alzheimers Society Memory Support Team

01296 331749

Hearing or sight concerns

Bucks Integrated Sensory Service

01296 479970

Falls

Community Falls Team

0844 225 2403 / 01494 426868

Community Response & Reablement Team – all Social Services, Occupational Therapy and Needs Assessment

01296 383204

Telecare Equipment

01296 383774

Mobility Equipment Equipment Loans

NRS Health Care Independent Living Consultants Red Cross

0345 123 8248 01844 273050 01296 739302

Meal Deliveries – Hot Food Frozen Meals

Appetito Wiltshire Farm Foods Oakhouse Foods

0800 090 3622 01525 242220 0333 370 2516

Mental Health

Healthy Minds Bucks

01865 901600

Transport Bus Passes

0845 521 2521

Community Transport Queries

Community Transport Hub

0800 085 8480

Blue Badge Scheme

General Enquiries Applications

01296 382902 0845 3708090

Benefits Personal Independence Payment Helpline

0800 121 4433

Attendance Allowance Helpline

0800 731 0122

Carers’ Allowance Unit

0800 731 0297

Pension Credit Claim Line

0800 731 0469

Future Pension Centre

0345 3000 168

Debt Advice

National Debt / Step Change

0800 138 1111

Housing Benefit

Local District Councils

See contact numbers listed under General Numbers

The Elderly Accommodation Counsel First Stop Advice Bucks Housing Support

0800 377 7070 0707 820 1322 0808 164 1810

General Enquiries – Customer Services

01296 395000

Housing Accommodation Queries / Housing Related Support / Housing support

General Numbers Bucks County Council Bucks Vision

01296 487556

Carers’ Bucks

01296 392711

Citizens Advice Bureau

Initial Enquiries – all areas

0344 411 1444

Local District Councils

Aylesbury Vale Wycombe Chiltern South Bucks

01296 585618 01494 421325 01494 732077 01895 837515

suppor ting older people since 1945

summer 2020 | 21

engage

Fundraising NEWS A close

Shave!

Thinking of Fundraising for us?

Thank you to those of you who continue to choose to buy tickets in support of AgeUK Buckinghamshire.

Lottery proceeds helps us continue to offer our services to vulnerable and isolated older people living in Buckinghamshire.

It is a win win for everyone. As you are in with a chance of winning prizes every time you buy a ticket! Plus, the Vale

Don’t forget you can follow our updates on Vale Lottery results via our Facebook page and on twitter.

Our Finance Manager Ways to FUNdraise Catherine Tabor braved all by completely shaving off all of her hair! She managed to raise ÂŁ200 with funds going towards helping older people in Buckinghamshire.

Well done and thank you Catherine!

"

Hold your own event!

Are you wanting to fundraise for us but are unsure what to do?

Get inspired by the ideas and help us raise funds for our vital services. Using the online service Justgiving (www.justgiving.com) to collect funds is quick and easy to set up and makes it very simple for others to donate. Whether you are holding a quiz night or a bake sale, you can easily fundraise for us on

Tick if you would like a digital or postal copy of Engage then please fill out this box

Name ............................................................

Ways to help us Fundraise

Email ............................................................

l

Hold a fashion show

Address ........................................................

l

Hold a games / Quiz night

l

Coffee morning

l

Craft event

.......................................................................

All information will be kept confidential.

T h a n k you. please send to AgeUK Buckinghamshire 145 Meadowcroft, Aylesbury HP19 9HH 2 2 | Summer 2020

l Tombola l

Bring your dog to work day

l

Cake bake day

l

Film night

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Have you made a Will? Do you want to learn more?

© iStock Photos

Helen Taylor TEP of Franklins Solicitors LLP provides details: Can that they have their Canyou you introduce introduce thought Will doesn’t have to be aallsad or affairs yourself tellus inawkward order and how relieved arehow yourself and and tell time, clients oftenthey tell me uswhat what you knowing that their be met. you do?do? comforted they arewishes by the will thought that A they Will have allows appoint the and all you theirto affairs in order I am executors of your and those I amaaPartner Partner in in how relieved theyestate are knowing that their Franklins chosen FranklinsSolicitors Solicitors wisheswill willensure be met.your A Willestate allowsisyou to LLP up administered and yourofwishes carried LLPand and head head up appoint the executors your estate and both the private client andthe family out.

It will allow you to state will both private those chosen will ensure yourwho estate is law teams Northampton client andacross family our law teams across our administered and your and wishes benefit, by how much forcarried you and Milton Keynes offices.Keynes Initially Northampton and Milton offices. toout. willspecific allow you to state whoaswill set Itout wishes (such I practised as a barrister in London, Initially I practised as a barrister in benefit, by how much and for you to set funeral arrangements). but looking morefor personal client London, butfor looking more personal out specific wishes (such as contact, I requalified as a solicitor and client contact, I requalified as a solicitor funeral arrangements). in and 2018 it will with the the 2020 willbe bemy my 20th 22nd year with firm.

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Additionally I hold the STEP Advanced Certificate in Advising We are a friendly and approachable Vulnerable Clients. team and enjoy helping our clients plan for the future. Our work requires We are a friendly approachable understanding andand compassion and Without a properly drafted Will, your and enjoy helping our clients plan estate Without properly drafted weteam are experienced in handling the willahave to be dealtWill, withyour by for the future.

Our work requires estate will have to be dealt with by the sensitivities of making a Will or Lasting the rules set out in law - the intestacy understanding and We compassion andinwe rulesItset in law - the intestacy rules.

Power of Attorney. take pride rules. is out a common misconception are experienced in handling the It iscouples a common misconception guiding clients through the process in that who live togetherthat will of making Will or Lasting couples whotheir live together willthat ansensitivities understandable waya and helping inherit from partner or Power Attorney.

We take pride in inherit from theirwill partner or that them to of make informed decisions. married couples automatically guiding clients through the process in an inherit married couples will automatically everything. This is not correct understandable way and helping them inherit This is not correct and mosteverything. people are horrified when to make informed decisions. and most people are horrified they hear how their estate willwhen be they hear howthe their estate will be divided under intestacy rules. divided undercarers, the intestacy rules. Close Close friends, godchildren friends, carers, godchildren and and unmarried partners whether unmarried partners whether heterosexual or same sex will not heterosexual or same sex will not benefit under these rules. benefit under these rules.

The offices work closely together and support each other in ensuring that our clients’ needs are met. The whole team, including support staff The offices work closely together and and trainee solicitors are Dementia support each other in ensuring that our Friends. clients’ needs are met. The whole team, including support staff so andimportant? trainee Why is making a Will solicitors are Dementia Friends.

I have often found that a clear and I have often found that a clear and valid valid Will helps provide directions, Will helps provide directions, during during what is such a difficult time, for what is such a difficult time, for those those left behind. left behind.

Understandably many people don’t Why makingofa preparing Will so important? like theisthought a Will.

However, in my experience making Understandably many people don’t a Will doesn’t have to be a sad or like the thought of preparing a Will. awkward time, clients often tell in my experience meHowever, how comforted they aremaking by thea

Foraa10% 10% discount discount on or Lasting Power of Attorney please For onaaWill simple Will or Lasting Power of Attorney contact Helen Taylor TEP by email Helen.Taylor@franklins-sols.co.uk please contact Helen Taylor, TEP by email Helen.Taylor@franklinsor call 01908 660966 quoting discount codediscount BUCKS10code BUCKS10. sols.co.uk or call 01908 660966 quoting

Can CanI Inot notjust justwrite writethe the Will Will myself? myself?

InIntheory, stopping theory,there there is is nothing nothing stopping you you from writing from writing youryour own own Will. Will.

However, However, this is aand complex and this is a complex intricate area of intricate law and there are law and area thereof are a number of legal a formalities number ofthat legal formalities thatwith must be complied must be complied in order in order for the Willwith to take effect.for It is the Will to to take It isexperienced advisable advisable useeffect. a solicitor toinuse solicitor experienced in this thisaarea, to make sure that the Will is drafted correctly order have area, to make sure in that thetoWill is the effect that youinwant and drafted correctly order towithout have the any unintended consequences arising. effect that you want and without any Sometimes it is not the drafting of the unintended consequences arising.

Will that is difficult advice of and Sometimes it is notbut thethe drafting the thethat decisions behindbut it. the advice and Will is difficult the decisions behind it.

If you have complex family (such as a 2nd marriage, If circumstances you have complex family children from different or circumstances (such asrelationships a 2nd any familychildren breakdown) if you wish to marriage, fromordifferent include moreor complex provisions such relationships any family breakdown) as the use of trusts for tax purposes or or if you wish to include more the protection of your home or other complex provisions such as the use is even more important ofassets, trustsitfor tax purposes or the to obtain specialist legal advice.

We take protection of your home or other pride init providing our clients with the assets, is even more important to best advice and service possibleWe andtake to obtain specialist legal advice. do this, we spend time getting to know pride in providing our clients with the our advice clients, understanding their personal best and service possible and circumstances and their to do this, we spend time getting to familyour arrangements. know clients, understanding their personal circumstances and their family arrangements.

A carefully drafted Will can, in the right circumstances provide opportunities for the mitigation of inheritance tax. It can fordrafted vulnerable disabled Aprovide carefully Willorcan, in children whilst protecting their benefits and the right circumstances provide most importantly, canmitigation give you peace opportunities for the of of mind that your affairs are in order. inheritance tax. It can provide for

vulnerable or disabled children whilst protecting their benefits and most importantly, can give you peace of mind that your affairs are in order.

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