Promoting involvement of older people in shaping policy and practice

Abstract

Purpose

This paper seeks to examine the social construction and barriers that older people face and through two case studies from the Northeast of England and London illustrate how older people can be effectively enabled to influence their communities and the services that impact on their lives.

Design/methodology/approach

Age Concern Durham County created a ten‐hour introductory level course called “The Confident Consumer”. This includes basic assertiveness skills, advice on how to challenge discrimination, and uses role play to improve communication skills for older people.

Findings

The case studies have demonstrated that older people do want to be involved and are enthusiastic participants when given the opportunity to use their voice.

Originality/value

By reaching out to older people and working actively in partnership with service providers, older people can help to shape their own world.

Citation

Wood, C. and Wright, M. (2011), "Promoting involvement of older people in shaping policy and practice", Working with Older People, Vol. 15 No. 2, pp. 80-86. https://doi.org/10.1108/13663661111144790