Report: Understanding access to services and quality of life for older adults in Gloucestershire
Gloucestershire is home to a growing number of older adults, many of whom want to stay active, connected, and independent as they age. But for many, accessing the right support can be challenging.
What did we explore?
This report looks at the experiences of people aged 65 and over living across Gloucestershire. We focused on key issues that shape quality of life in later life, including:
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Access to health and social care
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Housing and home environment
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Community support and social connection
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Transport and mobility
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Use of technology
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Mental wellbeing and loneliness
We heard from over 400 people through surveys, focus groups, and interviews. Based on their feedback, we’ve made recommendations to improve access to care and support, reduce barriers, and create a more inclusive system that helps people maintain their independence and wellbeing as they grow older.
Download the full report below.
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Report: Understanding access to services and quality of life for older adults in Gloucestershire
What communities told us would help
- Improve access through trusted, familiar spaces such as community centres, religious spaces, or established community groups.
- Provide in-person information and support, ideally with someone they know and where appropriate, with an interpreter present.
- Build confidence in transport use. Suggested solutions included buddy systems, small group trips to new services, or support workers accompanying them a number of times to build confidence.
- Recognise and enable community skills. Participants said they had valuable skills and experiences they would like to share.
- Create gender-specific and culturally-aware opportunities. For faith-based communities, gendered activities were suggested to ensure comfort and participation.
- Reach communities where they already are. Community WhatsApp groups, local places of worship, and community leaders were mentioned as ideal routes to share information and opportunities.
Want to share your feedback with us? Complete our online feedback form.
