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Foreword

The National Service Framework (NSF) for Older People was launched in 2001. It promotes independence and well-being for older people and support for them to live at home or in community settings as far as possible. The emphasis in the NSF has been right across the whole health and social care system rather than being narrowly focused on just one or two conditions. This is an ambitious agenda but a crucial one.

It is heartening to see that greater numbers of older people are being protected by having a flu jab, giving up smoking and having breast cancer screening. It is never too late to look after your health. Falls and fracture, which are the leading cause of death due to injury in older people, are being vigorously dealt with.

Delayed discharge, which was a real problem a few years ago, has fallen substantially since we tackled it with a national drive and extra resources. Once out of hospital, older people can take advantage of up to six weeks' active convalescence and rehabilitation. New funding for Extra Care housing has led to imaginative schemes around the country providing individual privacy but at the same time flexible 24-hour support from social care and health teams. At home, we provide community equipment faster than before and have increased home-care packages and support year on year.

Services for common conditions in old age are vastly improved. Stroke is the third biggest killer in the UK after heart disease and cancer. There are now double the number of specialist stroke units in England compared to 1998, with further rapid progress in the development of stroke services. In a host of other areas such as emergency care, surgery, long-term conditions and mental health, older people are benefiting from reforms to mainstream services.

After three years, it is clear that the NSF has galvanised the NHS and social care into more person-centred services and reduced ageist attitudes and practices.

That tide is now irreversible, and I am delighted to welcome this report as evidence of substantial progress in services for older people and their families. Improved health in old age benefits everyone.

The Rt Hon John Reid MP
The Secretary of State for Health

• Download Better health in old age: Report from Professor Ian Philp (PDF, 1200K)
• Better health in old age: Resource document