Organisations across Leeds are renewing their campaign to raise awareness that people aged 60 and over are at greater risk of health complications from COVID-19. Following the announcement of the latest lockdown, partners in Leeds are continuing to advise residents how they can stay active and connected, whilst still reducing physical contact to minimise the risk of virus transmission.
Organisations across Leeds are renewing their campaign to raise awareness that people aged 60 and over are at greater risk of health complications from COVID-19. Following the announcement of the latest lockdown, partners in Leeds are continuing to advise residents how they can stay active and connected, whilst still reducing physical contact to minimise the risk of virus transmission.
Health and care organisations across Leeds have been working together, alongside community organisations, since October 2020 on the campaign offering advice on how to keep safe and well. With infection rates rising across the country, the Leeds campaign is a reminder that older people are at greater risk yet it is important they do not become socially isolated.
As part of the initiative, the team have been seeking the stories of local Leeds residents who are over 60 to hear their experiences and advice for life during the global pandemic. One such resident, Dot, has supported this campaign and shares her stories of Bollywood dancing, spending quality time with her family over Zoom, and her love of painting in the video below:
Dr Jason Broch, Clinical Chair for Leeds NHS Clinical Commissioning Group said:
“Leeds residents such as Dot are an inspiration and seeing her adapt in a challenging situation whilst also sharing her story to help others is a strong message for all of us. Dot shares how people can adopt changes that keep residents healthy and well, avoid physical contact, and reduce the risk of transmission.
“As a clinician, I want to ensure we keep all our residents and communities safe and focussing on the most vulnerable groups is a priority. While news of the vaccination programme offers hope to us all, we have a way to go before we really beat this pandemic. We must continue to follow the latest guidance but maintaining good physical health and social connections are really important.”
Cllr Rebecca Charlwood Executive Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adults, Leeds City Council said: “Leeds is an Age Proud and Age Friendly city and it is a priority that we ensure our residents aged 60 and over are aware of what they can do, and how they can be supported during this latest lockdown.
“Dot embodies how residents of Leeds aged 60 and above can stay connected and well, and to continue to make a valuable contribution to our city.”
According to the 2011 census around 20% of Leeds’s population are aged 60 or over and it is now recognised that this age group is more at risk of developing more serious health complications from COVID-19.
To further protect NHS services, Leeds City Council and the NHS in Leeds once again call for the members of the public to consider the following advice:
• aim to reduce physical contact and avoid areas of high footfall, including using priority shopping hours where possible;
• discuss ways to reduce transmission risk with employers and minimise situations that brings close contact with people, especially indoors;
• plan leisure time to include leaving the house around quieter times of the day to reduce the risk of being in close physical contact with others;
• physical exercise is important – maintain a two metre distance to stay safe when out and about;
• find ways of staying in touch with family, friends and work colleagues by using video calling, text messages or even posting a letter or greeting card.
To find out more about the campaign and to get tips to keep family, friends and colleagues safe please visit www.takecareleeds.co.uk #takecareleeds
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Issued by the communications team at NHS Leeds CCG. You can contact the team on: 0113 84 35528 or 0113 84 35470. Alternatively, please email us: leedsccg.comms@nhs.net