Rowley Regis Agewell Local Forum Report

Date of Meeting: 26th April 2008

Main activities / discussion

We had a visit from Martin Filsak and Kent Filmer from the Telecare Project. Telecare is the use of technology to support people to stay independent and to live longer in their own homes. He demonstrated a variety of electronic equipment to us. It all seemed very useful and got us thinking about the kinds of electronic devices that would be useful. There were two devices that you are able to receive free of charge without a professional referral. One helps to turn a lamp on remotely so you don't trip if you wake in the night and get out of bed. The other, known as the SHED and is unique to Sandwell, is a verbal reminder to you when the room is either getting too hot or too cold. For all the others, you need a referral and assessment.

One of our members raised the question of whether the devices would be covered by someone's home insurance policy. We were told that it was the first time that anyone had ever raised this.

We also received some booklets about the Mental Capacity Act. This Act relates to people who can not make decisions for themselves, either on a temporary or permanent basis, and sets out how you can make sure your wishes are met should you be in such a situation.

Any decisions made

To look at ways increasing the numbers of people attending the Rowley Regis Forum from across Rowley Regis. Suggestions are that we locate the forum in different parts of the town.

Feedback from Agewell Sandwell Meeting

Points raised: None.

Other issues discussed

None.

Issues to take back to Agewell Sandwell