Local Community Co-ordinators – Alma’s story
Alma suffers from declining physical health and was increasingly isolated, leading to feelings of depression. She had experienced falls and had been referred to the day hospital as well as the local day centre for older people.
Alma was a sociable lady who felt that the day centre was not right for her at this time despite her poor health. Alma’s GP referred her to the Local Community Coordinator for the Llynfi Valley.
The LCC met with Alma and discussed what was important to her, what her interests were and what a good life would look like for her now. Alma felt lonely and guilty for depending on her sister so much.
The LCC referred Alma to the local befriender service and a volunteer supported Alma to get out a few times a week. The LCC also helped Alma contact the landlord to install some extra hand rails to reduce the risk of falls at home. The LCC got to know Alma and went on to introduce to her to two other ladies who were in a similar situation which she became friends with.
Alma currently attends a Wellbeing through creativity group and has made many new friends. She describes her life as ‘busy’ and the Tuesday wellbeing group became a lifeline of companionship and learning new crafts. Alma was also introduced and enjoyed the local Strictly Cinema group. The next plan is to attend a local senior citizen evening club with some of the members Alma has met at the Wellbeing group. Alma talks here about her early experience of meeting her Local Community Co-ordinator, Laura.
