Wellbeing in IRCs Week: Meet our Wellbeing Clinical Supervisor

What is one unique aspect of your role as a Wellbeing Supervisor?

There are so many. A current stand-out aspect would be how we interlink with other services, which you wouldn’t assume to be the “norm” in supporting the older generation; e.g. local football team community support programs.

How does the wellbeing team at ExtraCare support residents’ mental and emotional well-being? 

All of our residents have access to a wellbeing advisor, who can provide them with support, guidance and clarity.

How does the wellbeing team at ExtraCare help residents maintain their independence? 

Our wellbeing service plays a fundamental role in supporting residents in taking the initiative to manage their health conditions or any concerns that they may have. This provision helps residents to stay independent for longer and often delays the need for care.

Before any resident considers moving to an ExtraCare retirement community a baseline health assessment, which gives a thorough overview of current physical, mental, and cognitive health, is provided. This is designed to ensure we are aware of all health conditions ensuring the move will suit all the holistic needs of the individual. The review will include a series of clinical tests, questions to discuss any concerns, and cognitive questions that will assess any potential decline in memory or cognition. The results help us tailor their support or signpost to other services. Their progress is supported through follow-up assessments; wellbeing talks or a referral to our on-site gym as appropriate to their needs. After move-in, all residents are supported to ensure they are settling well and encouraged to become a part of the ExtraCare Community. Resilience assessments are offered 6 monthly to those who are highlighted as being pre-frail or frail from the initial baseline assessment. This is a perfect opportunity for the wellbeing advisor to assess any ongoing physical or cognitive concerns and to make any recommendations, as necessary.

Health promotion is a huge part of the service provided by all our wellbeing advisors. Our wellbeing advisors work with other teams within the location to offer annual wellbeing days, monthly support meetings such as for weight management or diabetes, wellbeing ambassador support (residents with an interest or background in health and wellbeing), and external health care professionals and speakers to give talks and help with support groups.

Our wellbeing service has resulted in more appropriate referrals and signposting, and improved quality of life. Residents can access health care in the village rather than going to their GP or Practice Nurse, this has helped reduce avoidable hospital admissions.

For more information on wellbeing visit ExtraCare’s wellbeing page.