Violet Chapman, 97, is partially sighted and can no longer watch TV because of an eye condition which has also caused her to have a few falls. Ealing Council’s reablement team has stepped in to help.

“It’s made a big difference to my life,” said Violet. “My carers are always on time, very polite and I enjoy talking to them.”

Macular disease makes it hard for Violet to focus her eyes. She has received help from the council’s reablement carers, who visited her every morning for six weeks after a fall in August last year. These carers provided essential support so that she could get back to her normal life as quickly as possible.

The reablement service works with clients for a period of six weeks after a hospital stay, fall or injury; or even after a bereavement or trauma. It is to help them get back on their feet and return to their daily lives. After a person leaves hospital, they are also visited by occupational therapists and physios, depending on their needs.

‘MAKING A DIFFERENCE TO LIVES’

Councillor Binda Rai, the council’s cabinet member for health and adults services, said: “Reablement carers do a very important job. They provide support at home and encourage people to use their skills and gain the confidence to remain independent in their own home and within the community they are familiar with. The service we provide continues to retain its ‘good’ rating from the Care Quality Commission and receives positive comments from people using the service. I also appreciate how much of a difference the carers are making to improve the quality of life for our residents.”

Violet added: “My team of carers are all very good. They come once in the morning to help with breakfast. I lay out the plates on the table, so they can do the rest. I’m a very independent person. I want to carry on doing things for myself for as long as possible. My motto is: I never give up, I never give in.”

MORE INFORMATION

For more on the service visit www.ealing.gov.uk/reablement

AVOIDING FALLS

There are many ways to reduce your risk of having a fall, including doing exercises to improve your balance, strength and co-ordination.

StayActive4Life runs strength and balance programmes throughout the borough, on behalf of the council. Email admin@stayactive4life.co.uk or call 07715170207. Tai Chi or gentle yoga are also beneficial. You can get other practical tips on avoiding falls in the home at www.ealing.gov.uk/falls