Men’s Health Matters: Staying Well and Connected in Lancaster
During Men’s Health Month, discover how to support older men in Lancaster to stay healthy, connected and independent.
June marks Men’s Health Month, a time to focus on something that’s often overlooked. It’s about more than appointments and medication. Are they moving enough? Eating well? Catching up with friends? And perhaps most importantly, are they talking about how they feel?
Without regular check-ins, it’s easy for minor health concerns to slip under the radar or for isolation to quietly take its toll.
At Home Instead Lancaster, we believe good care is more than just assistance; it’s about connection, purpose, and helping people live life on their own terms.
What We Often Miss
Men are statistically less likely to ask for help, even when something feels wrong. But leaving symptoms unchecked can lead to bigger health problems down the line.
Here are some common issues affecting older men, many of which are manageable with the right support:
– Heart health: Tiredness, breathlessness, or chest discomfort can all seem like part of ageing, but may signal high blood pressure or heart disease.
– Prostate problems: Difficulty urinating, disrupted sleep or pelvic discomfort often go ignored but should be checked by a GP.
– Diabetes: Signs like increased thirst, slow healing, or fatigue are easy to miss but could point to something more serious.
– Mental health: Mood changes, irritability and social withdrawal are common but not always easy to spot behind a “I’m fine”.
Most symptoms are subtle. But catching them early can make all the difference.
Starting with the Everyday
If you’re worried about an older man in your life, a dad, friend or neighbour, don’t underestimate the power of small, everyday actions.
Here are five ways to offer meaningful support:
1. Check in regularly
A text, a quick call or popping round can go a long way. Even just asking, “How are you really doing?” can open up an honest conversation.
2. Encourage appointments
Some men need a little push to see the GP. Offer to help with booking, transportation, or remembering follow-ups – a bit of reassurance can make it easier.
3. Keep meals social and simple
When someone lives alone, cooking often becomes a chore. Offering help with meal planning, shopping, or even sharing a bite together can make food feel enjoyable again. Our Care Professionals often prepare warm meals and stay to chat; something that nourishes both body and soul.
4. Support gentle activity
A short walk around Williamson Park, some stretching in the garden, or joining a local walking group helps maintain balance, confidence and energy. It doesn’t need to be intense, just regular. Getting out and about is vital for wellbeing.
5. Make connection easy
Men are more likely to lose touch with their social circles as they age. Whether it’s a chat at the local community group or a regular afternoon at the local bowls club, staying socially active is just as important as staying physically well.
Home Instead Lancaster: More Than Just Care
We provide personalised, home-based support that helps older men stay connected to who they are, not just what they need.
Whether it’s companionship, dementia care, help with medication or meal prep, our support is shaped around each individual’s lifestyle, preferences and goals.
Our Care Professionals live and work in Lancaster, so we know the area and the community well. We work flexibly, alongside families, to bring peace of mind and genuine support.
Time to Talk, Time to Act
Men’s Health Month isn’t about dramatic gestures. It’s about noticing the small things, asking questions, and being ready to step in when needed.
If you’re concerned about someone you care for, or just want to explore how we can help, we’re here to talk.
Contact Home Instead Lancaster today and let’s support the older men in our community to live healthier, more connected lives right where they feel most at home.