The UK Prader-Willi Association recently published a mother’s account of how the Vivatec WristCare device transformed their family’s life. To read the article on the Association’s website you would need to register but, with their kind permission, we have posted it here for you to download.
Hexham Courant runs local bad news/good news story.
Joseph Rowntree Foundation report published 15 September calls for a national debate on how better to share the cost between the state and private individuals. It argues that the present system is unsustainable because it provides neither a clear-cut set of entitlements according to how much care people need, nor a well-accepted set of rules about how much they should contribute according to ability to pay.
The accessibility of websites, software, digital TV and 3G phones could become a legal requirement across the EU if plans announced today by the European Commission fail to improve accessibility for elderly and disabled people within two years.
By the end of 2005, public procurement rules may also change, to demand that authorities award contracts only to bidders providing accessible services.
Following a selection process last December, the RNID, RNIB and Red Cross have taken over as a joint venture, the equipment virtual store pioneered by the Integrating Community Equipment Services (ICES) Team. It is expected that the Consortium will build on the framework and principles laid down by the pilot project and attract new users.
A survey of 9,732 US patients using the Health Buddy appliance found that 86 percent say they better understand their medical condition and treatment and are better able to manage their chronic health conditions.
A team at the University of California, Berkeley, found that older people had no problems focusing on relevant information – but could not effectively shut out competing distractions.
Dr Mima Cattan’s, (Leeds Metropolitan University)Recent study concluded that the effects of social isolation and loneliness for an older person can be harmful and traumatic. Although there are many good initiatives which aim to tackle the problem, older people are rarely involved in developing these activities.”
Vast numbers of National Health Service front-line personnel are apparently oblivious to the £6.2 billion national IT programme currently being rolled out, according to new research.
This survey highlights the need for an effective communications strategy with staff when planning the introduction of technological developments.
Two more telecare factsheets have been added to the CSIP Change Agent Team website.