LAST THURSDAY (July 31), the Older People’s Commissioner for Wales met with over 50 members of Carmarthen’s University of the Third Age (U3A) group, at Carmarthen Bowling Club, to discuss the issues that are most impacting older people within the community.
U3A groups offer sessions where shared learning can take place between semi-retired and retired individuals, as well as providing a variety of social activities. Members emphasised how much they enjoyed the social aspect of the sessions, and how they enjoy keeping their mind sharp and learning about new topics.
During the Commissioner’s visit, important issues were raised regarding digital exclusion, as many of the members told us that their phone services are severely limited where they live, which prevents them from receiving correspondence from online services. There were calls for creating a Hub in the town centre for older people to use, to receive advice about how to navigate digital processes such as online prescription requests, how to avoid scams, and online banking.
The increasing number of car parks that now rely on contactless or app payments was also discussed, as it causes older people to reduce their trips out into their local community, which impacts their social lives and mental wellbeing. Members also stressed the importance of older people receiving TV licenses, as for some people this is their main form of entertainment throughout the day.
A specific issue was raised about the difficulties people often face when travelling to hospital when they are unable to drive, cannot access public transport or don’t have family members close by to help, highlighting the importance of reliable alternative options such as volunteer driver schemes in Carmarthenshire.
Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Rhian Bowen-Davies said: “The U3A is a fantastic organisation which enables its members to participate in skill sharing and continuous learning, which is really important as we get older.
“It was a joy to hear about the variety of events they put on, including a book club, gardening club and a Sunday lunch group, and the positive impact these activities have on members’ lives.
“During the visit, older people told me about issues surrounding the lack of continuity of care within GP, hospital and dental services, as well as difficulties due to having to travel long distances, often to other counties, to receive medical treatment.
“I also had the opportunity to talk with U3A members about the help and support available from my Advice and Assistance Service, and highlight my wider work to improve the lives of older people across Wales.
“Being able to speak directly with older people in local areas is incredibly important as it allows me to learn more about the kinds of issues affecting older people at a community level, which helps to guide and shape my work to influence policy and practice at both a national and local level.
“I would like to thank everyone at the Carmarthen U3A for the warm welcome that I received during my visit.”
