Background

The Staywell 75+ scheme was started in 1989 with the aim of promoting good health and well-being in patients registered with the Phoenix Surgery, who are aged 75 years and over, with the help of trained volunteer visitors. The scheme incorporates many of the aims of the National Framework for Older People. The Phoenix Surgery has gained a Beacon Award for the scheme. The scheme is now able to extend support to patients who are in the early stages of dementia, people with a disability and all identified carers.

The Staywell 75+ team:

The first phase of the Staywell 75+ scheme uses an annual postal questionnaire which is sent out to patients who are aged 75 and over. This process gives detailed information from the patient's perspective on health, social and functional ability. Information from this questionnaire is analysed by the health visitor and administrator.

A very high percentage of questionnaires (approx 90%) are returned to the surgery, and from these we can establish that:

• Most people do not experience any difficulties and have a good quality of life (approximately 75%)

• Information on services is frequently requested. Response letters are sent out by the administrator.

• A smaller percentage of people (approximately 25%) do experience difficulties. Comprehensive health visitor assessments are planned for these patients and care plans are then developed

Following the health visitor assessment, a trained volunteer visitor is introduced where appropriate. This enables continued monitoring of disability levels by the volunteer using the Winchester Disability Questionnaire. The volunteers who are trained and supported by the health visitor and administrator also add a valuable element of befriending for patients.

The Health Visitor for Older People working 24 hours per week, coordinates the Staywell 75+ team, supported by a RGN for Older People working 12 hours per week and an Administrator working 12 hours a week. The Management team, meets regularly to review progress and includes a Lead GP, Practice Manager and Volunteer Team Leaders.

The Staywell 75+ process: