The Trust held a number of events to celebrate International Day of Older Persons, a celebration of the achievements and contributions that older people make to society.
Folkington Ward at EDGH celebrating International Day of Older Persons
The events held ranged from tea parties at Eastbourne District General Hospital and Bexhill Irvine Unit to a number of informative displays in various locations to promote independence and provide information to patients and carers about the range of therapy and rehabilitation services available locally.
Sue Lyne, Senior Frailty Nurse Consultant Frailty and Older People said: “We wanted to recognise the contributions older people have made and do make to our society and so were keen to hold some events to celebrate International Day of Older Persons”.
As part of this day, our therapy teams within the acute hospitals continued to promote the “End PJ Paralysis” national campaign by wearing pyjamas to work. Research has shown that a person aged over 80 can lose 10 per cent of their muscle mass after just 10 days in a hospital bed. There’s also extensive evidence that dressing patients in their own clothes is more dignifying, provides a sense of normality and allows them to be more independent while in hospital.
Physiotherapists in their pyjamas promote the “End PJ Paralysis” campaign
Amanda McAndrews, Frailty Practioner said: “Staff and patients from two wards met to celebrate International Day of Older Persons. They had afternoon tea together, shared memories and stories from times gone by which included an interesting recollection about the Cutty Sark and the Dunkirk evacuation. The afternoon was finished off with a game of Bingo.”