THE NHS is one of the UK's greatest achievements, but a lot has changed since it was created in 1948.

During that time, it has had to respond to significant societal changes that were never expected, let alone planned for.

The NHS Long Term Plan outlined, for the first time, a model to support older people with complex and long term health needs at home and in their own community.

This is long overdue. We know that for many people the need for health care doesn’t just stop after discharge from hospital.

People in England are now living far longer, but these extra years are not always spent in good health. As we grow older, we are more likely to live with multiple conditions and complexities. And, sadly, older people don’t always get the care they need - in the right setting or, at the right time.

With this in mind, it is more important than ever to think about ways we can prevent ourselves putting undue pressure on the NHS by taking some responsibility for our health and not leaving those ‘niggles’ until they require urgent care.

Older people especially need to ensure their care is reviewed regularly to check for risk indicators of long-term health conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Medication instructions should be adhered to and prescriptions reassessed frequently. Sight tests, dental check-ups and hearing support are also underestimated - these routine interventions are effective in identifying complications at an early stage.

If you are worried about your health, or don’t know where to start when it comes to re-evaluating your needs, call us on: 030 300 30003.