Dr Lambert's report is based on a conference held in Cardiff last May by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF), the Older People's Commission for Wales, and the Bevan Foundation, which showcased JRF's research on older people and considered the work of the Older People's Commission on its first anniversary.
The conference, which was chaired by Vivienne Sugar, Wales Adviser to JRF and Pro-Chancellor of Swansea University, gave older people, carers, policy makers and practitioners the opportunity to debate key issues affecting older people's lives.
The report outlines the conference's discussions on key themes relevant for older people in Wales, including creating an age-friendly society, priorities for the Older People's Commissioner, the opportunities for developing distinct solutions for Wales in Wales, and the challenges of achieving person-centred care and partnership working.
Some of the conference's recommendations published in the report include:
- There should be a more simplified system for care and funding older people.
- We need to develop an understanding of what ageing means to individuals.
- We need to recognise diversity among older people.
- The Older People's Commissioner should prioritise both ensuring the implementation and measuring the impact of policies and practice, especially those focused on person-centred care and partnership working.
Dr Lambert, who is Co-Director of the Older People and Ageing Research and Development Network (OPAN Cymru) based at Swansea University, said: "The report brings together the views of a range of experts, advocates and service-users. It is very timely as it contributes to discussions around long term care of older people.
"We need to ensure that service provision is based on evidence of what is needed and what works. OPAN Cymru is at the forefront of ensuring that research underpins policy and practice in Wales."
To view a copy of the report click here Indpendent Care and Living in Wales report and for further information on Swansea University's Centre for Innovative Ageing, visit www.opanwales.org.uk.
