Make Time For a Cuppa
Make Time for a Cuppa for Dementia UK
Someone develops dementia every three minutes in the UK – that’s the time it takes to boil a kettle.
Dementia UK, the specialist dementia nursing charity, is inviting the nation to make Time for a Cuppa.
The charity’s dementia specialist Admiral Nurses, provide life-changing advice and support to anyone affected by dementia. However, with rising numbers of families impacted by the condition, thousands of people are not getting the support they need.
Dementia UK is encouraging people across the country to get together at home, at work, or in the local community to host a Time for a Cuppa event to help the charity to continue delivering vital support to families with dementia.
Friends, families, and neighbours can come together to enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of cake in return for a donation to the charity. Every cuppa poured and penny raised will help the charity to grow the number of specialist dementia nurses so more families can access their support.
Over the past 14 years, Time for a Cuppa has raised over £1,600,000 which has helped to fund numerous Admiral Nurse services around the UK to support families with dementia.
Dr Hilda Hayo, Chief Admiral Nurse and CEO of Dementia UK says, “One in two of us will be affected by dementia in our lifetime. Either by caring for someone with the condition, developing it ourselves, or both. It is a huge and growing health crisis.
“We believe every family affected by dementia should have the support of a specialist nurse – but right now, we can’t reach everyone who needs us.
“By taking part in Time for a Cuppa, you can help us recruit more Admiral Nurses which provide a lifeline to families. Although, there is no cure for dementia, there is care.”
By making Time for a Cuppa, you can help ensure no one has to face dementia alone. Sign up for your free Time for a Cuppa fundraising pack here
If you need advice or support on living with dementia, contact Dementia UK’s Admiral Nurse Dementia Helpline on 0800 888 6678 or email helpline@dementiauk.org
You can also book a free video or phone appointment to get expert dementia support from an Admiral Nurse.
To book an appointment click here
For more information about Dementia UK visit www.dementiauk.org.
Ear Wax Warning
The Dangers of
Ear Wax Removal
Oliver Wright, AIHHP Chairman
Ear wax is something that most of us prefer not to think about too much, but according to the Royal National Institute for Deaf People, more than two million people each year need to have ear wax removed.
However, since the procedure is becoming difficult to access on the NHS, people are increasingly turning to private providers offering wax removal services who don’t have the knowledge, the experience, skills or training in audiology, potentially putting patients at risk of infection or permanent damage to their hearing.
The Association of Independent Hearing Healthcare Professionals (AIHHP), has launched a new campaign to help educate the general public about aural care and the importance of finding properly trained clinicians to undertake the procedure.
Through its new website www.blockedears.co.uk AIHHP hopes to engage with members of the public to connect them with clinicians who are fully trained and have attended accredited wax removal training to ensure they receive the highest possible standard of care.
AIHHP Chairman Oliver Wright says, “Our members are increasingly hearing stories about patients’ experiences with untrained private providers of ear waxing services, including one patient who was seen in a dentist’s practice by a dental practitioner, where the treatment was extremely painful and resulted in bleeding in the ear.
“It is important to emphasise that professional audiologists are also able to conduct comprehensive hearing tests once ear wax has been removed successfully.
“We cannot stress enough how important it is to be seen by a suitably qualified specialist so that any underlying issues affecting a person’s hearing can also be identified through the ear wax removal process and/or by conducting a hearing test. This underscores the necessity in entrusting only specialists who are adequately and appropriately trained in such procedures.
“Ear wax removal should always be carried out by a fully trained professional where the procedure forms part of their scope of practice, enabling them to practice safely and legally, otherwise the public are putting themselves at risk of possible serious damage to their hearing.”
To find out more about AIHHP’s Blocked Ears campaign, visit the website at www.blockedears.co.uk
The Beatles Audio Book
Looking Back at
The Beatles Book
Brian Singleton with The Beatles book, photograph by Daisy Miller Graphics
A new book about The Beatles, which has been designed specifically with, and for, people with dementia has been released with the accompanying audio voiced by actor Bill Nighy.
Newly-formed publisher, Cognitive Books, developed the concept in collaboration with Alzheimer’s Society, the UK’s leading dementia charity.
The founder of Cognitive Books, 49-year-old father-of-two and gerontologist, Matt Singleton, had the idea for a book series when he noticed his father, Brian, who was diagnosed with dementia in 2017, was losing his passion for reading as his cognitive abilities declined.
The first book in the series, looking back at…The Beatles, takes the reader on the legendary band’s journey. The books are unique as they solve many of the barriers people with dementia face when reading and can be enjoyed alone or with loved ones and carers.
They use familiar stories, rhyme and rhythm for recall and illustrations to bring the narrative and memories to life. The need to focus on the evolving plot of a story is less important because each page works as its own, individual story. What’s more, the audio version provides additional support for the reader and there are exercises based on Cognitive Stimulation Therapy.
Matt Singleton, Founder of Cognitive Books and author of looking back at…The Beatles explains, “My dad has always loved reading. I fondly remember him always having a book in his hand when he had time away from his busy job.
“Dad became extremely forgetful in the months leading up to his diagnosis and in 2017 he was finally diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.
“My heart sank when Colleen, my step-mum, told me one day that there was no need for me to buy dad any more books as he wasn’t reading anymore. I realised that, due to dementia, dad was finding focusing on the evolving plot of a story very challenging.
“I desperately searched for books that would be more suitable for him to enjoy. But I came up with nothing. Given my knowledge of dementia, and innovation due to both my Masters’ degree in gerontology, and work, I seized the opportunity to solve the problem and that’s how the idea of Cognitive Books was born.”
Matt and Brian Singleton
Actor Bill Nighy who provides the voiceover for the audiobook says, “I was grateful to be given an opportunity to help in any small way with this dreadful condition that afflicts so many of us directly or indirectly. I hope these books can be a valuable addition to the treatment already in place and bring the same satisfaction that they might in normal circumstances. I salute those involved in this project.”
Cognitive Books is one of the groundbreaking products Alzheimer’s Society has invested in to directly benefit people living with dementia as part of the charity’s Accelerator Programme – designed to support people to boost new dementia products and innovations to market, delivering help and hope to people living with dementia.
Simon Lord, Head of Innovation at Alzheimer’s Society says, “The collaboration with Cognitive Books as part of Alzheimer’s Society Accelerator Programme demonstrates the positive impact there can be when expertise, dedication and a shared vision come together.
“As one in three people born today will develop dementia in their lifetime, Alzheimer’s Society is committed to developing a product for every person at every stage of the condition.”
By collaborating with Alzheimer’s Society, Matt was able to work alongside people with dementia in the development and testing phase which proved crucial, a process Matt describes as incredibly rewarding.
Martina Davis, has posterior cortical atrophy (PCA), a rare form of dementia, and was part of the lived experience panel that tested and helped co-create the final version of the book. She says, “Reading can be frustrating for me, but with PCA, unlike other forms of dementia, my symptoms can change week to week. Sometimes lines and words can swap themselves around. Paragraphs can fall down the page. Then, other weeks I’ll find that I can read something absolutely fine.
“Colours are really important for someone with dementia. With the final version of the book the colours are popping and I’d want to grab it straight off the shelf. It’s comfortable for me to look at, and having the accompanying audio with Bill Nighy is helpful for me on the days I’m struggling to read.”
looking back at…The Beatles is available to buy from today from Alzheimer’s Society’s online shop at shop.alzheimers.org.uk, where additional proceeds of the sale will be paid to Alzheimer’s Society, Amazon and all good bookstores.
Anyone with a great product or innovation to improve the lives of people with dementia can apply for funding and support through the Alzheimer’s Society Innovative Accelerator programme. Visit the website at alzheimers.org.uk/accelerator
looking back at…The Beatles is produced in collaboration with Alzheimer’s Society, and Cognitive Books contributes 5% of all their sales to support the charity’s work. Cognitive Books aims to increase this contribution over time and, by purchasing from the charity’s shop, you’re helping even more.
Alzheimer’s Society offers friendly support through a range of virtual and in-person services, including their Dementia Support Line (Tel: 0333 150 3456), online Dementia Support Forum, and Dementia Advisers.
Alzheimer’s Society relies on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0330 333 0804 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
Gardening for Wellbeing
Gardening Saved Julie from Depression
Julie Loftus says gardening saved her
Julie Loftus, a 61-year-old active volunteer, discovered a new sense of joy after immersing herself in the world of gardening. Having battled with depression for many years, she found herself turning to alcohol. Thankfully, she’s now found solace in this new pursuit, that is not only making her feel happier but healthier too!
Julie spoke exclusively to Gardeners Dream to share her story on how joining a gardening community helped save her social life and mental wellbeing.
Julie Loftus, 61, from Brinnington, Stockport, suffered with depression from a young age, and this resurfaced once her children had left the family home. Seeking a way to break out of this emotional rut, inspired by her mum and stepdad, she discovered a newfound passion for gardening and never looked back.
Now chair of the Green Thumbs Community Garden Initiative established by Brinnington Big Local, Julie Loftus spoke to Gardeners Dream, who share how joining the community and taking on gardening helped her turn her life around.
What started as an occasional task to help maintain Julie’s mum and her stepdad’s well-kept garden, became something Julie was genuinely passionate about, and which she later realised she had a true gift for.
Julie’s mum & stepdad being presented
with certificates and shopping
vouchers for garden centres in 2013
“My mum and stepdad always had a flair for gardening, so much so that they are the only Stockport Homes tenants in history to have won the main ‘Best in Borough’ prize three times. To help out, I used to walk around their garden deadheading flowers, and this was when I started gardening on a very small scale.
“This then little hobby turned into a passion of mine, and in 2016, I ended up joining the Green Thumbs Community Garden, where I was given two 3ft x 4ft raised plots to start with. I then soon realised, as my plants continued to bloom, I had inherited my mum’s gift for growing both flowers and vegetables.
“As a direct result of me joining Green Thumbs, I met the Bringington Big Locals LTO, who encouraged me and gave me the confidence to go on their committee, which I am now chair of too!”
Julie’s garden showpiece, made last year using broken terracotta plant pots that she didn’t want to throw away
Speaking openly about her depression, Julie goes into more detail about how her newfound love for gardening helped her not only improve her well-being but her social life too.
“Prior to joining Green Thumbs, I had suffered from depression, which resurfaced once my children had left home, and I turned to alcohol as a crutch. Before I knew it, I had locked myself away from the world and would only go out to do my shopping after it was dark so I could buy alcohol, which led me to lose both my friends and family because of my drinking.”
“Once I joined my local community garden, I found myself spending more and more time there and enjoying just sitting amongst nature or tending my plots with other plot holders, which resulted in me drinking less during the day. I also began to meet other plot holders.
“At first, I made excuses not to take up invitations to go for coffee or out on trips, but through our mutual love of gardening, I now have a full and varied social life. My friends and family are so proud of how I turned my life around – especially my children and grandchildren as they tell me on a regular basis.”
As well as being an active volunteer at the community garden, Julie also incorporates gardening into her daily routine at home, as for her, it is more than work – it’s also her happy place.
“Gardening is a major part of my life now. Not only do I still have my two plant plots thriving at the community garden, but I also have a 70-foot allotment, as well as winning awards previously for my garden, which I share with my neighbour. I also have a balcony that overlooks a primary school that I plant with some beautiful flowers that the children love to look at and chat about as they pass. I would say that once the weather gets warmer, gardening becomes an integral part of my daily routine, and like my plants, I come back to life.”
“I love everything about gardening. From planting the seed, watching it grow, and transplanting it, whether it’s flowers or vegetables, it’s like magic. I love the feeling of soil on my hands, and coming away with dirty hands gives me a sense of achievement.
“I have always said there is something about soil that makes a person happy. I also have a large feeding station in my garden for the wild birds and a sparrow terrace nest box that Blue Tits return to every year to rear their young. This is another aspect of gardening I enjoy, as not only am I growing what I love, but my garden also attracts and sustains beautiful wildlife.”
Julie’s ‘Topsy Turvy fairy garden’
Because of the huge impact that gardening has had on Julie’s physical and mental wellbeing, she would without a doubt recommend this hobby to anyone who wants to try something new, especially now as we move into the spring/summer months.
“I would 100 per cent recommend people to take on gardening, even if it’s in pots, a garden, on a balcony, or an allotment. It gives you the chance to forget your everyday troubles and worries and get you out of your four walls, connects you with nature, and gives you a sense of achievement at being able to give life to where you live.”
Julie has one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start gardening. “My main advice would be to just get started and include your family members, especially the younger members; they are our gardeners of the future.
“Also, I would say to not be afraid of making mistakes. We have all had failures in the garden, but we learn from them. Even after all these years, I still make them!”
For more information about Gardeners Dream visit www.gardenersdream.co.uk
Vida Healthcare
Don’t Wait for Crisis Point to Seek Care
Nicola Atkinson with her mother
A leading provider of dementia care in the UK is challenging the perception of care in older age, after new research has shown that many people wait until breaking point before reaching out for help when it comes to the care of their loved one.
The study by the UK’s leading dementia care provider, Vida Healthcare, highlights the uncertainty around the different types of care available within the UK, with many Brits admitting to not knowing what different types of care involve. Almost a quarter (23%) of UK adults aren’t confident that they know what residential care is, 24% aren’t sure what nursing care is, more than a quarter (28%) aren’t confident they know what dementia care is, while almost a third (31%) don’t know what social care or respite care involve.
This lack of understanding and reluctance to discuss care options with family members often results in families delaying the inevitable – the research has revealed that more than half (57%) of UK adults have waited until crisis point before seeking expert care and support for their loved one. This can then make the process more difficult for families as they try to avoid the tricky conversations and difficult decisions.
However, those who have had loved ones in care were positive, praising supportive staff (22%), having better care (21%), nicer facilities than first thought (21%), surprise at how nice it was (15%) and fantastic specialist care (12%) are just some of the top positives cited once a loved one was in a care home.
Commenting on the results of the research, James Rycroft, Managing Director at Vida Healthcare says he believes that it’s crucial there is a shift in the perception of care homes in the UK.
“Moving a loved one into a care home can be difficult for all involved. By the time someone starts considering a care home, it’s likely their loved one may be in need of more care than what can be provided at home, and individuals may have come to a point where they can no-longer provide the care and support their loved one needs.
“Our research found that adults are often putting off conversations because of feelings of guilt – more than a third (36%) of UK adults that we spoke to admitted to avoiding the conversation of moving a loved one into care as they felt guilty about doing so, a stigma that we’re dedicated to challenging and changing. It’s important to accept that you are human and there is only so much you can do – an individual cannot provide the level of care that a dedicated care home can.”
Bob Kirby, a retired reverend from York, called on the support of Vida Healthcare for his wife, Jan, after he realised that he simply couldn’t care for her on his own any longer following his own health crisis. Jan, 75, began showing signs of Alzheimer’s more than 10 years ago. The couple, who were married for 48 years, had many conversations over the years about how they would like to be cared for when they got old.
Bob comments, “Jan and I never made promises we couldn’t keep and we were realistic in our expectations about going into care if needed. However, after Jan was finally diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia in 2014, she soon became very resistant to going into a care home and the topic became ‘off limits’.”
Caring for Jan and working as a minister began to put enormous strain on Bob, but it was after the Covid lockdowns were put into place in 2020 that he and his family reached breaking point. Jan went into a care home for a month for respite care, but the home she was in couldn’t cope with her complex needs. She then moved to Vida Healthcare for specialist care. It was only once Jan started receiving suitable care and was in a safe environment that Bob started to feel able to relax.
Jan sadly passed away in December 2023. In hindsight, Bob admits that Jan’s worsening condition had crept up on him and his family. Looking back, he realises what a toll caring for his wife had taken on his own health and how much help he needed. Bob would advise people in a similar situation to reach out for help from specialists able to cope with complex needs as soon as possible, wherever they can.
The research from Vida Healthcare also reveals what people have learnt from the process of enlisting specialist care and support, in hopes to help others. The top five reassurances include:
1. You can’t provide the level of care that a care facility does.
2. You haven’t failed a family member by not keeping them at home with you.
3. You should prepare more and talk about options earlier.
4. You and your loved one will feel safer.
5. Plan the move and make it as smooth as possible.
James adds, “Family members of people living with dementia and other conditions that mean they need to move into a care home shouldn’t feel like they have failed their loved one by not keeping them at home with them.
“On the contrary, being supported by a care provider can ensure that yourself and your loved one are cared for in a respectful and dignified way, that allows independence to be maintained as much as possible, all the while helping to improve your loved one’s wellbeing and quality of life.”
For more information on the outstanding care services available at Vida Healthcare, please visit www.vidahealthcare.co.uk
Sixtyplusurfers Competition
Win an Active
Joint Care Bundle
We understand that it’s not always so easy to fit joint care into a fast-paced lifestyle, which is why Sixtyplusurfers is delighted to team up with GOPO® Joint Health to offer one lucky reader the chance to win an Active Joint Care Bundle including a 3-month supply of GOPO® Joint Health, PLUS a FITBIT Charge 6, worth over £150.
With summer around the corner, there is no better time to enjoy exercise with the reassurance that your joints are taken care of. GOPO® Joint Health is made from 100% specially cultivated natural rose-hip (Rosa canina) and is the only product of its kind to contain a high level of GOPO® – a key component of rose-hip, which was discovered over 30 years ago in Denmark and has been studied in over 20 scientific trials.
Rose-hip helps maintain healthy and flexible joints. It is also rich in Vitamin C which contributes to the formation of collagen for the normal function of cartilage. Cartilage is the protective and connective component of joints.
Give your joints some of the TLC that they deserve, with GOPO® Joint Health, providing care today for an active tomorrow.
GOPO® Joint Health is available from Boots, Amazon, Tesco, Holland and Barrett and independent chemists and retailers nationwide.
Visit www.gopo.co.uk for further information.
For Your Chance to Win
Tell us what fruit is
the key ingredient in
GOPO® Joint Health?
a) Rose-hip
b) Acai-berry
c) Cranberry
d) Blackberry
To Enter the Competition
Tell us what fruit is the key ingredient
in GOPO® Joint Health? Then send in your answer together with your full name, postal address and telephone number to the Sixtyplusurfers email: sixtypluscomp@hotmail.co.uk
or click on the blue link below:
* Please label your entry
GOPO® Joint Health Competition
Competition Terms & Conditions
1. This competition is open to UK residents only.
2. Entrants must be aged 18 or over.
3. One winner with the correct answer will win an Active Joint Care Bundle including a 3-month supply of GOPO® Joint Health, PLUS a FITBIT Charge 6, worth over £150.
4. Closing date for the competition is June 30th 2024.
5. Names and addresses of entrants will not be shared with third parties and will be deleted after the prize draw has been made.
Advice from a Nutritionist
Conquer the Afternoon Slump & Energy Dip
Nutritionist, Rob Hobson
The afternoon slump, a familiar decline in energy post-lunch, is more than just a feeling; it’s a reality for many. A recent study, launched by energy and focus brand Pro Plus®, has quantified this daily energy dip, pinpointing the average peak of vitality at 11:15am, followed by a notable decrease at 2pm.
This pattern underscores the influence of our lifestyle choices on energy levels, with 40% of Britons turning to sugary drinks for a fleeting uplift, a choice that impacts blood sugar levels, potentially leading to the observed afternoon energy crash. This connection highlights the importance of mindful dietary choices in maintaining consistent energy levels throughout the day.
The same study revealed that brits feel they are operating at merely 53% of their daily energy potential, with unhealthy eating habits listed as a leading ‘energy drainer’. To combat this, Pro Plus® have teamed up with renowned nutritionist Rob Hobson, offering strategies to mitigate fatigue and optimise daily energy through healthier lifestyle adjustments.
Commenting on the study Hobson says, “In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining a consistent level of energy is crucial. Yet according to new research from Pro Plus®, the time of day when UK adults are least energised is 2pm, likely as a result of fluctuating blood sugar levels and a natural dip in our circadian rhythms. This ‘afternoon slump’ can hinder productivity and focus, impacting both our professional and personal lives.”
“40% of UK adults say they are resorting to sugary fizzy drinks for a quick fix, which, while providing a brief surge in energy, can lead to longer-term health implications and energy crashes.”
To help UK adults fight the effects of fatigue, Hobson shares his top six tips for sustained energy levels:
Welcome the Sunshine
“Exposure to natural light is the most potent element influencing our circadian rhythms. Begin your day by either drawing back the curtains or taking a stroll outside. This practice is beneficial for numerous reasons. The presence of sunlight leads to a reduction in melatonin levels (sleep hormone) and increases the stimulating hormones norepinephrine and cortisol. Absorbing some sunshine signals your body that it’s time to start the day and become active.”
Stay Hydrated for Peak Performance
“Water is essential for brain function. Although it may seem obvious, Pro Plus® surveys show many of us aren’t drinking enough water. Even slight dehydration can impair energy, focus and memory. To stay hydrated, carry a water bottle throughout the day. Having a bottle within arm’s reach and taking regular sips can become as natural as checking your phone!”
Unprocess your life
“Unprocessed foods, such as whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables, are nutrient dense and the key to sustaining energy levels due to their rich content of complex carbohydrates, high fibre, and balanced nutrients. These complex carbs and fibres ensure a slower digestion process and a gradual release of energy, helping to stabilise blood sugar levels and prevent the spikes and crashes associated with ultra-processed foods.”
Regular Exercise to Boost Energy
“Regular physical activity can significantly boost your energy levels and improve mental clarity. Activities like brisk walking, cycling, or yoga increase your heart rate, enhancing blood flow to the brain and muscles. This not only improves your physical health but also enhances mood and mental focus. Imagine your exercise routine as a daily ‘energy appointment’. It doesn’t have to be a marathon; even 30 minutes of activity like a brisk walk in the park or a quick yoga session at home can do wonders.”
Use Caffeine Strategically
“Caffeine, when used strategically, can be an effective tool to enhance alertness and concentration. Think of caffeine as your personal assistant for the brain – it’s there to give you a boost when you need it. Controlling your caffeine intake, through a high-quality supplement, can offer a more balanced energy boost compared to the fleeting lift provided by sugary drinks. This can be especially useful during work hours or when you need to focus on demanding tasks.”
In response to these findings, Pro Plus® has launched ‘Fizz’, a healthier energy supplement alternative in a convenient effervescent tablet that is designed to be dissolved in water. Pro Plus® Fizz combines natural stimulants, like caffeine and guarana extract, with vitamins B2, B6, and B12, and Ginseng. This blend of ingredients offers a balanced energy boost, supporting mental performance and sustaining energy levels without the downsides of sugar-induced highs and lows.
Unpacking Pro Plus® Fizz’s Unique Composition:
• Effervescent Formula – tablets dissolve easily in water and the active ingredients are quickly absorbed, giving you multiple benefits.
• Caffeine & Guarana Extract – A dynamic duo, these stimulants are renowned for promptly bolstering alertness and focus.
• Vitamins B2, B6 & B12 – Contribute to a reduction in tiredness and fatigue.
• Ginseng – Supports normal cognitive function.
• Red Berry Flavour – It’s not just about the boost. Fizz promises a delightful taste journey with its red berry essence.
Dive into the energy boosting experience with NEW Pro Plus® Fizz. Available to buy at Amazon. RRP £5.99 for 20 tablets.
About Rob Hobson
Rob is an award-winning nutritionist with over 17 years of experience in the industry and a trusted, go-to voice in the media. Rob appears regularly on the radio and has been featured on TV shows, including Channel 4’s Food Unwrapped and news site features.
In his successful private practice, Rob has an esteemed client base that includes celebrities, royals and leading sports people. Rob has authored international best-selling books including The Detox Kitchen Bible, The Art of Sleeping, and Unprocess Your Life.
Immediate Relief for Pain
Relief for Shingles
Shingles can be a miserable experience that affect around 194,000 people each year. But did you know that, rather than waiting for a GP appointment when shingles strikes, you can now receive even more advice and treatment for shingles, including medication if you need it – over the counter at your local pharmacy?
Thanks to recently launched scheme NHS Pharmacy First, you can get more help on the high street. George Sandhu, Deputy Superintendent Pharmacist at Well Pharmacy explains, “Getting treatment via your pharmacist means you no longer have to wait to see your GP. You can go whenever convenient to you for immediate access to a pharmacist trained who will provide expert over the counter advice in a free confidential consultation.”
What is shingles?
Shingles is an infection that causes a painful rash. The first signs of shingles can be a tingling or painful feeling in an area of skin, a headache or feeling generally unwell. A rash will appear a few days later.
How long does shingles last?
It can take up to 4 weeks for the rash to heal. Your skin can be painful for weeks after the rash has gone, but it usually gets better over time.
What can cause shingles?
Shingles is caused by the chickenpox virus. When people get chickenpox, the virus stays in your body. It can be reactivated later and cause shingles if someone’s immune system is weakened. You cannot spread shingles to others. But people who have not had chickenpox before could catch chickenpox from you.
How can I treat shingles myself at home?
Paracetamol can help ease the pain, as can keeping the rash clean and dry to reduce the risk of infection, wearing loose-fitting clothing and using a cool compress (a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel or a wet cloth) a few times a day.
When should I see a pharmacist?
You might need medicine to help speed up your recovery and avoid longer-lasting problems. This works best if taken within 3 days of your symptoms starting. 111 will tell you what to do. They can arrange a phone call from a pharmacist if you need one.
What is NHS Pharmacy First?
NHS Pharmacy First is a new service which allows community pharmacists to supply prescription medicines for seven common health conditions: earache, sore throat, uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women, sinusitis, infected insect bites, impetigo and shingles.
It’s part of a promised up to £645m investment in community pharmacy in England which will allow pharmacists to make greater use of their clinical skills to support general practice.
For the Shingles Support website visit shinglessupport.org.uk