This project aimed to raise the awareness of the information, support and advice available for people with sight and hearing loss to community nurses working in the Western Isles.
Sensory impairment is one of the most common issues faced by people in their later life. Epidemiology shows that even minor sensory impairment can impact on an individual’s ability to carry out their normal, everyday activities.
In 2011, the Western Isles Sensory Centre (WISC), funded by Scottish Government, was established to provide advice and interventions to people on the Western Isles with sensory impairment. While the centre was known to have positively enhanced people’s lives, there was a low level of awareness among not only the general population, but also health and social care professionals.
This project looked to develop strategies to increase awareness of the centre, whilst also raising awareness of sensory impairment in community nurses through training and education.
Following completion of the project, the WISC noted an increase in clients informed of the service due to the increase in understanding of community nurses. The project team recommended that further education on sensory impairment should be rolled out to all professionals delivering health and social care to older people.
Future related projects planned include a Chief Scientist Office funded grant to commence July 2015:
- Community Pharmacy Services Used by Older People with Sensory Impairment and Polypharmacy Needs
Kroll T, Watson M, Smith A, Macaden L, Stoddard K.
