By the community, for the community

 Penny French  on  07776 245726

From our  Village Agent:-

Helping older people in Gloucestershire have a better quality of life - working with the over 50s, providing easy access to a wide range of information that will enable them to make informed choices about their present and future needs.

Hello everyone. Today I am going to talk about feet! And the message is, be kind to your feet, look after them and they will look after you. Here is a four point check list.

1. If you have a long-term condition, such as diabetes or arthritis your feet are particularly vulnerable. Check your feet regularly and ensure you attend check-ups as requested. If you notice any problems, report them to your GP as soon as possible. Fortunately, there is a lot that can be done to protect our feet and most common problems can be treated successfully by a chiropodist or podiatrist. As we get older an annual foot health check is important.

2. On a day-to-day basis, there is a lot we can do ourselves. First and foremost, it is important to wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes. The thinking is that slippers which we may want to wear if our feet are hurting are not the best option as they encourage shuffling rather than letting the joints work as they should. Rather, wearing a pair of running shoes is the best option as these provide a good amount of shock absorption and stability and also support the arch.

3. Good nail care can also keep the feet feeling comfortable. If you are struggling to cut your own nails, ask a family member for help as hacking at them could do more harm than good. If that isn’t an option it really is a good decision to go to a chiropodist or nail cutting service. Some do home visits although that can get pricey.  If you are struggle to find a foot care specialist, I hold a small list of local people that I can share with you.

4. A daily application of moisturising lotion will help to keep feet feeling soft, supple and fragrant.


Car Sharing - Do you need a lift?

There is a new initiative in the county that aims to promote and support a car sharing service in the most rural areas along “the Severn Corridor”, which includes predominantly rural communities where public transport tends to be poor. It is called “Parish Lift” and is a new online car sharing service available to local parish communities across Gloucestershire.  Residents register their trip and “Parish Lift” find a match for people heading in the same direction, at similar times, on a particular day; whether as a driver or a passenger. You can find out more at parish.liftshare.com, or try their Helpline on 07415 260 758. The service can be used by anyone who is 18 or over.

Penny. Mobile: 07776 245 276 Email:  Pennyf@villageagent.grcc.org.uk

No. 164  Aug-Sept 2017

Eastington Community News Magazine.  Community news for and by the people of Eastington, Gloucestershire