Charity is here to support older residents in West Norfolk to cope with daily challenges
A charity dedicated to supporting older members of the community is highlighting the impact of stress and anxiety on residents and how the organisation can help.
April is Stress Awareness Month and Age UK Norfolk has said many older people in the county experience stress and anxiety due to complex financial, health and personal challenges.
Limited support networks can also make life’s pressures feel even more overwhelming, the charity has said, adding Age UK Norfolk is here to help.
Stress and anxiety are well-documented contributors to declining mental health, particularly for older people and research has shown chronic stress can lead to serious health issues, including depression, cardiovascular problems and a weakened immune system, the charity said.
A study by the Mental Health Foundation revealed 43 per cent of people aged 55 and older report feeling stressed on a regular basis, with many facing difficulties in managing day-to-day challenges without support.
Age UK Norfolk has been at the forefront of providing help and in 2023-2024, it provided nearly 3,000 hours of advocacy support across 1,400 home visits.
Support has been in the form of helping people to overcome financial stress and energy worries with an example of a client living alone with macular degeneration and poor mobility who was struggling to manage household bills.
He was paying more than £3,000 a month in bills which were estimated because he was unable to access his energy meter due to his condition. He was not using his heating and the charity intervened resulting in an £18,000 refund and compensation.
The charity has also helped those struggling with council tax bills and helped a couple resolve a faulty solar power system issue when they felt overwhelmed by the situation.
The charity has provided emotional support and practical help in many ways to those who are housebound.
Jo Asbury, head of community wellbeing services at Age UK Norfolk, said: “Stress can have a profound impact on the lives of older people, especially those facing multiple challenges.
“At Age UK Norfolk, we work tirelessly to provide support where it’s needed most - whether it’s assisting with finances, offering emotional support or helping clients access vital services.
“We are proud of the positive difference we make, but we rely on the generosity of the community to continue our work.
“For those who are able, supporting our charity will help ensure that we can continue to offer essential services that relieve stress and improve the quality of life for older people in Norfolk.”
If you are an older person facing challenges or know someone who needs support, contact Age UK Norfolk at 0300 500 1217 or email: advice@ageuknorfolk.org.uk
If you are interested in supporting the charity’s work, you can make a donation via a JustGiving page, host a fundraiser or become a volunteer.
Training is given to anyone interested in volunteering which can be very rewarding.
See www.ageuknorfolk.org.uk or contact the volunteer coordinator on 01603 785210, alternatively, email: volunteering@ageuknorfolk.org.uk
