READING Borough Council is seeking to help older people, those with disabilities, and the people who care for them during Adult Social Care month this November.
The council will use a month-long campaign to help residents understand what care options are available to them and how they can find technology which will improve their quality of life.
It will also explore the stories and circumstances from residents who have shared their experiences, which it hopes with encourage people to reach out for much-needed support.
With a number of helpful services and tools available to those with specific physical or personal needs, the council is looking to acquaint residents with adjustments they can make to help care for those who need it.
These include tools such as a wearable device, much like a watch, which can connect to a call centre that can be used by a resident to raise the alarm if they have been injured or get into difficulty.
There are also sensors which can be installed on doors throughout the home to keep track of inhabitants and to help residents feel more secure.
Home assistants such as smart speakers can be used to help residents with day-to-day tasks, such as switching on lights and raising shutters, or to give them reminders, such as medicine dosing.
Adjustments such as ramps can also be made to homes to improve security and mobility for residents.
John Ennis, Reading’s lead councillor for adult social care said, “Adult Social Care is particularly close to my heart and I’m proud to be the lead member for this service area.”
“We know it can be daunting to ask for and accept help, but I’d encourage residents and their families to find out how care technology could help them remain in their own homes, be independent and importantly feel and stay safe.”
Residents in Reading have taken part in videos released by the council which show how their needs can impact their daily lives and how certain tools could help them.
“My thanks go to the residents featured in the videos and for inviting us into their homes, and for their time, their insight is invaluable.
“The videos are full of warmth and surprises, from pigeons to Chris de Burgh.
“Care technology really does help to support independence and brings with it benefits not only to the person accessing the technology but also to family, carers, and friends.”
The month-long campaign will also raise awareness of national Adult Social Care Awareness weeks; with Occupational Therapy Week taking place from November 7-14 and Safeguarding Adults Awareness Week from November 21-28.
Cllr Ennis continued: “I’d encourage residents to look out for, watch and share the personal accounts of residents in the videos across the month to understand the benefits and out how care technology might be able to help you and your loved ones, and bring joy to our lives.”
Residents can get Technology Enabled Care (TEC) advice and help from the council by calling: 0118 937 3787, or via: www.reading.gov.uk/caretechnology
