Vaccinations

Those over 65 are offered immunisations to reduce their risk of complications from common infection including an annual flu jag, coronavirus boosters and a one-off pneumococcal vaccination. The shingles vaccine is also offered to those over 70. More information is available at NHS Inform.  

Screening programs

Men over 65 will be invited for an ultrasound to assess the large artery in their tummy, called their aorta, which can bulge and increase the risk of rupture. Information on this is available here. If you are over 65 and never had an appointment then it can be booked by calling Tel 0131 242 3606 

Women aged 50-70 will be offered breast screening every 3 years, further information is available here. If you have any issues with an appointment the Lothian Breast Screening Centre details are Ardmillan House Tel 0131 537 7400.

Both men and women aged 50 to 75 will be sent a bowel screening kit every 2 years. The aim is to pick up bowel cancers at an early stage when treatment is more likely to be curative. Further kits can be requested if you have lost one or it is out of date using this link.

Living well

East Lothian Council and Health and Social Care partnership have an excellent website with information on living well as you get older. There are lots of resources to maintain independence and fitness but also contact details to access support if required. Please follow this link. 

East Lothian council social work contact details for a range of support.  Their weekday contact tel number is 01875 824 309.

Carers of East Lothian support people who care for family or friends and can be contact via www.coel.org.uk or tel 0131 665 0135