Posted 21.12.16
Department of Health: Article link
People with learning disabilities will benefit from £25 million of funding to help them live more independently in their own homes. The fund aims to improve their quality of life by giving them independence, and helping them feel more included in their local community.
The successful bids of the £25 million housing and technology fund have been announced (20.12.16) by Health Minister David Mowat.
The local authority projects will focus on adapting existing housing, creating new accommodation and giving people support so they have more independence and choice.
Only 15% of adults with learning disabilities in England have a secure long-term tenancy or their own home. The Department of Health aims to address this by supporting projects, including shared ownership schemes, adapting existing properties with new technology and building new technologically adapted homes.
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Posted 12.12.16
Vicky Loewer, Admiral Nurse, Admiral Nursing Direct: Blog link
Vicky Loewer works on Dementia UK's National Dementia Helpline, Admiral Nursing Direct. Her job is to provide expert practical and emotional support for families living with dementia.
Her blog, which on posted to Housing LIN, highlights the concerns of many callers who are worried that the person with dementia is no longer safe to live on their own. For example, they may be leaving the gas on or flooding the bathroom.
The majority of these issues occur because dementia can affect a person's ability to interpret their environment. In some cases, people may require a more supported living environment such as extra care housing or a residential home placement. However, where possible people with dementia can be supported to remain in their own homes.
Vicky's blog explains some of the many simple adjustments that can be made to help manage some of the problems that arise.