Fareham Borough Council has today published an update to its popular directory for older residents ‘The Wise Guide’ – providing useful contacts to help older people stay healthy, independent, social and active.

It is estimated that one in every eight households across Hampshire is occupied by a pensioner living alone and Fareham has experienced the largest rise of residents aged over 85 across Hampshire in the last 20 years.

Loneliness and social isolation can be a problem for some older people.  The Wise Guide has been produced to provide a one-stop directory, addressing the needs of older people in the Fareham Community and helping them to remain active and engaged in their community to reduce isolation and loneliness. As such, this updated publication includes new sections specifically on socialising and keeping active.

The Wise Guide can be found at www.fareham.gov.uk/thewiseguide.  You can also pick up a hard copy at the following locations:

• The Civic Offices
• Libraries across the Borough
• Community First
• One of Fareham’s Community Pantries

Hard copies will also be delivered to the Council’s sheltered housing schemes.

Executive Member for Leisure and Community at Fareham Borough Council, Cllr Connie Hockley, said: “I am delighted to be able to provide an update to The Wise Guide for older Fareham residents and their families. There is a wealth of information inside so I really encourage residents to pick up a copy and share the details with friends, family and neighbours who may find it useful.”