Older People, with the Council, local health services and other partners in Sandwell have worked together to build a shared plan for over 50s in Sandwell. It describes our vision for improved quality of life and well-being. The summary explains briefly what we aim to achieve and how we plan to do it. The focus is on what needs to change and improve.

One in three people in Sandwell and half of all Sandwell's carers are over 50. People are living longer and the number of people over 80 will continue to rise in the next five to ten years, with a threefold increase in over 85s within Black and Minority Ethnic communities expected by 2011.

Research shows that,nationally, 49% of people over 65 are excluded from community life in one or more ways. Older people want to be active and independent citizens, but a number of barriers get in the way, including: prejudice and ignorance, low income, loneliness, poor housing, ill health and lack of transport. Sandwell's older people face relatively high levels of deprivation, poor housing and ill health creating a high level of demand for NHS and social care, which reduces their ability to take part in social, political, cultural and economic life.

However, we know that many problems can be prevented by dealing with the root causes. Living Well in Later Life in Sandwell sets out what we will do about this, enabling older people to stay healthy and independent, and to enjoy a better quality of life.

You can view the summary by following the link below. There is a link to the full strategy at the side of the page.