In order to ‘Stay Well’ we need to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating well, moving well and thinking well.
At times, however, there may also be other obstacles to overcome such as an illness, a fall or practical difficulties with day to day tasks where we may need a little bit of support or advice. This is perfectly normal and finding the support we need early can help to maintain independence, safety and can often prevent a decline in our health.
It is also important that we take responsibility and manage our ongoing medical conditions appropriately which involves following recommendations from our Doctors and Therapists. This may involve taking medication, symptom management, and maintenance of our general physical and mental health.
Hopefully, the following resources will be useful tools to help you to Stay Well.
You will find information on the following topics in this section:
- Understanding your condition
- Understanding your medication
- Having trouble sleeping
- Home help
- Safety at home / TeleCare
- Local exercise groups
- Local services and support
- Carer support
- Alcohol and Drug Support
- Seasonal Health Campaigns / How to stay well in Winter
- Useful contact numbers / Services and National Charities
Do I understand my medical condition?
Being diagnosed with a medical condition can be difficult. It is important however, that we understand our conditions to be able to take control and manage them well, hopefully preventing complications as we age.
The NHS Health A-Z Guide allows you to research a condition easily and provides an overview, treatment and some useful resources regarding your condition.
I’m not sure if I’m taking my medication correctly
The NICE (National Institute of Health and Care Excellence) guidelines state that most people take medicines at some point in their lives.
Medicines are beneficial but people often don’t get the best from them for many reasons.
- NICE Medicines Optimisation leaflet explains safe and effective use of your medicines which is extremely important in assisting in managing your long term conditions and preventing some serious side effects if taking medication incorrectly.
- The NHS Medicines A-Z list allows you to research common medicines to gain further information.
- If you require urgent medication support (including an emergency prescription) you can contact the 111 service or you can speak to your pharmacist for general advice.
- Use the find a pharmacy services to find a pharmacy near you.
- Health at home provides information on ordering repeat prescriptions as well as advice about online GP services, Apps and video consultations.
I really struggle to get to sleep at night
We all have evenings when we find it hard to sleep.
Simple lifestyle changes can make a huge difference to your quality of sleep. If we have a good sleep it makes a huge difference to how we feel, and dealing with day to day tasks can be a much easier experience.
Have a look at these 10 helpful tips and the other resources that are available from the NHS.
The NHS Every Mind Matters website also has support with sleeping if you are finding it more difficult to sleep at present due to the pandemic outbreak.
I struggle to communicate
Our speech and language therapy team has some excellent advice on communication skills.
