Interesting read

Hi

I've just read the new case study "Japan's search for a seamless care package" and found it very informative. It is very interesting to read about how other countries are trying to tackle and support their ageing society and would welcome more perspectives from outside of the UK.

Japan seems to have one approach and 'vision' towards addressing the ageing population which must have its benefits, such as implementing change which sounds successful and almost pain free!!

What surprised me is that the report started by highlighting the pressure of '..the highest hospital bed occupancy per capita..among developed nations' and lack of community based resource's. The latter was responded to well with the 'new' model but I am keen to understand and learn from what has been done to address the hospital bed occupancy? It is an issue in the area I work in, as I’m sure it is for many!

In Calderdale, I have been leading on a project called Heatherstones Court which will be a 'step forward' facility for adults of any age who have been in hospital and cannot return home straight away, or can come from the community if it will help avoid a hospital admission. It has been made possible due to housing, health and social care services working together (including funding) and will go live in October.

The new service will have a learning curve and understanding what has been adopted in Japan around this issue I’m sure would be beneficial to the project?

More information on Heatherstones Court can be found at http://www.calderdale.gov.uk/housing/

Steph