Member news and opinions 10 April 2024
| Harnessing the lived experiences of older people One of the basic tenets of the Age Action Alliance is that anyone providing goods and services to older people will do a far better job if they take on board the opinions and lived experiences of their “target markets”. And that is a thread running through several of the stories and blogs in the latest round up of news, views and opinions from AAA members. We learn about how the NHS Sounding Board or Older People is connecting with clinicians and consultants to reduce waiting lists for vital operations, while a community initiative in East Sussex is collaborating on the design of a new minor injuries and illnesses unit. We also discover how marketers can best reach their consumers, and why an Older People’s Commissioner is badly needed to help “join the dots” on public services. There’s plenty more to read besides: concerns over older people being disconnected from the world through the “digital by default” approach of any public-facing bodies; why a simple move to vaccinate older staff could help the businesses that employ them; and how improving poor housing can lead to better health outcomes. We also look at the up (and down) sides of the pension freedoms brought in a decade ago, and there’s an open invitation to forums in London to take part in a discussion to achieve an age-friendly city. That’s all for this month, but remember: if you’d like to share your opinions and news with other member, or tap into the expert input of older people to inform your policies and services, email info@theageactionalliance.org. We would also welcome sponsors to support our website and newsletters. Tony Watts OBE, Editor |