Age Concern Sheffield - Day Services

Age Concern Sheffield operates a number of services designed to reduce social isolation and help older people to participate in worthwhile and enjoyable social activities. We do this through day centres, individual support from volunteers and a number of 'lifelong learning' groups.

Day Centres

Our six centres currently support in excess of 100 older people whose ability to continue living independently in their own homes is threatened by either dementia or poor physical health. Each member's needs are individually assessed and a support plan is developed which is reviewed with the member on a regular basis.

Supporting older people with dementia

Two of our centres cater specifically for older people with mild to moderate dementia, one in Crookes, the other in Stocksbridge. Activities at these centres are designed to provide mental and physical stimulation and slow down the rate of deterioration e.g. through reminiscence, quizzes, daily living skills (setting the table, washing up etc), gentle exercise and occasional trips out.

Bill's story

Bill is 87 and has dementia. Three years ago he was referred to an Age Concern Sheffield dementia day centre to give his wife a break, after an attempt at respite care left him extremely disorientated and upset. Initially Bill attended for just one day a week, but last year when his wife Mavis's own ill-health was further exacerbated by shingles, this was increased to three days. He has settled well into the centre, particularly enjoying art and craft activities and Mavis reports that he is more alert, less confused and less verbally aggressive. The day centre has made it possible for Bill and Mavis to remain together at home, for the time being at least, which is what both of them wanted.

Supporting physically frail older people

The other four centres aim to enable socially isolated older people whose independence is limited by a disability or health problem, to continue living at home for as long as possible. The opportunities to socialise with peers and participate in everyday activities such as a pub lunch or shopping trip to Meadowhall are central to the service offered by these centres. A nutritious hot meal, exercise sessions and other activities are also designed to safeguard the health of our members.

Age Concern Enablers

This new scheme supports individual older people to establish social networks and opportunities that enable them to live independent social lives. Each client is assigned a volunteer 'enabler' who works with them to identify their individual interests and how these can be met. This might be for anything from a few weeks, while someone adapts, for example, to returning home after a stay in hospital, to a few months, perhaps after a bereavement, or more. It is currently being piloted in the Woodhouse area of Sheffield.

Lifelong Learning

Our current groups include art, history, literature and music appreciation. A full programme and an enrolment form can be downloaded by visiting the news and campaigns page on this site. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader (see the Using this Site page if you have problems opening this file).

Swimming and Fitness Club

Our swimming club now has over 400 members and an annual membership of just £1.10 entitles you to a discounted rate on swimming, aqua fit, gym sessions and meals and drinks at the Ponds Forge café during off peak hours - please enquire at the reception desk in Ponds Forge for specific times.

Exercise Classes in S6

The exercise for health class aims to provide a happy, sociable atmosphere in which you can improve your level of fitness. Participants are encouraged to work at their own pace and the class is open to everyone, just as long as you do not have a medical or physical condition that might be worsened by exercise. If you are unsure, it is always best to check this with your GP. Sessions run 10-11am on Thursdays throughout the year at William Sutton Hall, Dunella Road, Wisewood, S6. Cost £1.90 per session.

Accessing the service

If you think you or someone you know (whether in a personal or professional capacity) could benefit from attending a day centre or lifelong learning group or from support from an Age Concern Enabler then call 0114 250 2878 for more information or submit an on-line enquiry via the Contact Us page.