Healthcare for older people

We have information about how to:

• stay physically active;
• eat healthily;
• keep warm in winter; and
• look after your teeth;

Hearing and ear care

Most people with age-related hearing loss find that they can hear relatively well in the low pitches, but do not hear so well in the higher pitches. To most people with this type of hearing loss, others might sound as if they are mumbling. They might also find it hard to hear in groups or in background noise and they might find it hard to hear speech on TV particularly if music is also on the soundtrack.

You could consider asking a GP or nurse to consider remedies for excess ear wax. There are also over the counter remedies which may help to soften ear wax.

A digital hearing aid may help you - you can find local hearing impairment and hearing aid services through the NHS website. If you already have a hearing condition, there are many practical things that can be done to help you maintain your independence. We can advise you about hearing aids or other equipment - find out more here.

See the Action on Hearing Loss website for information and support for people with hearing loss and tinnitus.

Foot care

The first step in reducing foot pain and increasing mobility is appropriate footwear. For comfort, stability and long-term health, a well-fitting shoe with lace or Velcro fastening and a shock-absorbing sole will make all the difference to being able to walk pain free. If there are specific foot and lower limb problems, treatment can be sought from a podiatrist, either on the NHS or privately. For private treatment, make sure that the podiatrist or chiropodist is registered with the health professionals council.

You can find local podiatrists and chiropodists services through the NHS website.

Eye health

Even if your eyesight appears fine you should have regular eye checks to diagnose any hidden conditions. The following can help you to maintain healthy eyes and sight:

• have your eyes examined by an optician at least every two years even if there are is no apparent change in vision;
• eat plenty of green leafy vegetables, such as curly kale and broccoli; have lots of fruit, such as oranges and kiwis; and eat oily fish regularly which may help protect against some conditions;
• wear sunglasses with a UV filter to protect eyes from harmful rays in sunlight; and
• do not smoke, as smoking restricts the flow of blood and nutrients to the eyes and can increase the likelihood of developing conditions such as cataracts.

See the Royal National Institute of Blind People website for information and support for people with sight loss.

You can find local opticians services through the NHS website. If you already have an eye condition, there are many practical things that can be done to help you maintain your independence. See our information about equipment for people with sight problems for the help available from social care services.

Dementia Connect

Dementia Connect is the Alzheimer's Society's dementia services directory for anyone affected by dementia. Enter your postcode or place name to find services near you. Each listing includes a map and information about that service.

Information from the NHS

See the NHS pages below for more information on older people's healthcare:

• Eat well over 60
• Men's health 60-plus
• Women's health 60-plus
• A practical guide to healthy ageing - this guide helps people to stay physically and mentally well by providing "hints and tips" on how to keep fit and independent.