No 6 Well Wynd shows you how to keep active and independent

East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership recently opened No 6 Well Wynd as a resource to help people experiencing mobility problems to try out equipment and technology enabled care (TEC)  solutions.  Also known as the Well Wynd Hub, No 6 used to be the caretaker’s flat for Well Wynd Sheltered Housing Complex. East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership, working with East Lothian Council’s Housing Division, has been able to convert the flat into a smart home that allows people to experiment with adaptations, equipment, TEC care and apps that can help to make life much easier to live.

 Adaptations and equipment include a wet room, adapted shower, bathing aids, beds and a specially adapted kitchen. People can also find out more about and try out TEC Care solutions, for example, motion sensors, bed sensors and community alarms.  Some of the most innovative approaches involve the use of readily available products that people may already have in their homes such as voice-activated devices, smart TVs and lighting, and apps that control heating.

The route into the Hub is by referral to the Active and Independent Living Clinic. People referred to the clinic work with a team of skilled health professionals, for example, occupational therapists and physiotherapists, who help them to find the right exercises and equipment to help to keep as mobile as possible. The smart home at Number 6 is at their disposal so that they can experiment and find out what works for them.

East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership Service Manager for Access and Rehabilitation Lesley Berry says:

 ‘We are so excited about Well Wynd Hub because it allows people (and their carers) to experiment with all sorts of mobility aids and technical solutions that can really make a difference to you being independent in your own home. For lots of people, mobility problems make it feel like their  much-loved home is now actively working against them. The Hub shows you how you can turn this around.

 'You need to have a referral to visit so just ring our Contact Centre on 01875 824 309 and they can make a referral for you.’