Older People's Strategy - Newcastle City Council

53ContextNewcastle is one of the more deprived areas, and has some ofthe poorest health in the country (Index of Multiple Deprivationranked 20): 25% of people aged 50+ report that they are in poor health(self-assessed) (see Annex 7, Note 10). Newcastle has increasing numbers of people with complexphysical and learning disabilities who are living longer, withincreased expectations in relation to levels of support. In 2005-6 11% of all adults aged 65+, 17% of all adults aged75+ and 40% of all adults aged 85+ received servicescommissioned by Adult Social Services (see Annex 7, Note 11). Carers need support to enable them to continue their valuablecaring role. 7,324 (9%) people aged 50+ provide between 1-19hours of unpaid care per week and 3,772 (5%) provide carefor more than 50 hours per week (see Annex 7, Note 10).There is strong evidence that physical activity, healthy eating,learning opportunities and social activity have a significantimpact on the health and well-being of older people at anystage in their lives, and can reduce demand on health andsocial care services (see Annex 7, Note 12). Increasingly,policy documents including Choosing Health, Opportunity Age,Sure Start for Older People and the National Service Frameworkfor Older People highlight the need for a focus on prevention.However, it is not just an issue of promoting good physicalhealth and well-being. Keeping older people mentally healthyis just as vital. Taking up new learning and cultural interestsin later life is important because it is satisfying and beneficial