The University’s Healthy Ageing Research Group has teamed up with the Greater Manchester Ageing Hub to support those who are self-isolating during COVID-19.

The national response to COVID-19 has relied heavily on digital technologies to keep members of the public up-to-date on the latest government advice and provide support for those asked to self-isolate. The move from face-to-face interaction towards digital communication disproportionately excludes older people – one of the groups hardest hit by COVID-19 – many of whom do not have access to the internet or have been trained how to use it. According to an NHS Digital report, approximately 11.5 million people in the UK lack digital skills and 4.8 million people never go online, with around half (51%) of these aged over 65. While a separate report on digital exclusion found that older people in low-income groups and from marginalised communities are particularly affected. As a result, there is an increasing need to find non-digital routes to communicate with those currently isolating.

The team have produced the Keeping Well at Home printed booklet for older people who are digitally excluded. The free resource is specifically targeted at those who are currently unable to go outside, or have limited or no access to online resources.

The booklet contains practical information on: home exercises; mental wellbeing; how to stay connected to others; nutrition and hydration. It was designed in close collaboration with members of the Greater Manchester Older People’s Network, along with other key local and national partners.

The booklet is available to print and share with a loved one:

• Download Keeping Well at Home for print (PDF document, 3MB)
• For the Greater Manchester version of the booklet, visit the Greater Manchester Combined Authority website.

If you would like to adapt the Keeping Well at Home booklet to create a localised print or digital version, please email the Project Lead Jane McDermott.