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The Menopause Myth: Are Too Many Women Being Misdiagnosed?

Menopause has finally begun to receive the attention it deserves. After decades of being whispered about, brushed aside, or shrugged off as “just part of getting older,” women are now speaking openly about hot flushes, night sweats, mood changes and more. 

Awareness is undoubtedly a good thing, but with awareness has come a new concern.

Are we entering an era where everything is being blamed on the menopause?

With nearly 50 symptoms now regularly attributed to peri-menopause and menopause, from headaches to dry eyes, from itchy skin to joint pain, from palpitations to brittle nails, some clinicians worry that genuine health conditions are being missed because the default diagnosis has become:

“It’s just the menopause.”

Let’s explore the issue.

A Wider Understanding... or Over-Attribution?

In the past, many women struggled to access any recognition at all. Severe symptoms were frequently dismissed, under-treated, or mislabelled as stress or anxiety. The rise of menopause education has corrected much of that imbalance.

But while expanding the symptom list has helped many women connect the dots, it has also created new grey areas. When nearly every change in the body is said to be part of peri-menopause, it becomes harder to tell when something else is going on.

Examples include:

Persistent headaches that may actually signal migraines, vision changes, or blood pressure issues.

Dry eyes, which could point to autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren’s syndrome.

Joint pain, sometimes a sign of arthritis, injury, or inflammatory conditions.

Fatigue, which can be caused by thyroid disorders, iron deficiency, sleep disorders or infections.

Palpitations, occasionally related to heart conditions rather than hormone shifts.

When every one of these is explained away as hormone decline, opportunities for earlier diagnosis of unrelated medical problems may be missed.

The Risk of Self-Diagnosis

Social media has played a huge part in menopause awareness, with both positive and negative consequences.

Women understandably want answers, and communities online can be incredibly supportive. But there’s a growing trend of women concluding they are peri-menopausal based on generic symptom lists, sometimes without medical assessment. This can lead to:

Overlooking underlying health conditions

Starting HRT without ruling out other causes

Feeling frustrated if treatment doesn’t fix everything

Normalising symptoms that should be investigated

Self-advocacy is vital, but it must go hand-in-hand with proper healthcare guidance.

The Consultation Conundrum

GPs face a difficult balance. Many women want menopause acknowledged and managed properly. But equally:

Not every ache, pain, or mood shift is hormonally driven.

Not every symptom is automatically resolved by HRT.

Not every patient in their 40s or 50s is peri-menopausal.

Time-pressed appointments make it tempting to choose the simplest explanation, especially when the woman herself suspects “it’s the menopause”.

Some doctors fear that menopause has become a “catch-all label”, convenient, fast, and familiar, instead of a diagnosis reached through careful assessment.

Why It Matters

If an underlying condition is mistaken for menopause:

Treatment may be delayed

Symptoms can worsen

Women may end up discouraged or mistrustful of healthcare

Long-term health may be affected

The aim is not to undermine menopause awareness, quite the opposite. Proper menopause care must include ruling out other causes first, not instead.

What Women Should Do

A balanced approach helps prevent misdiagnosis while still ensuring menopause is treated seriously.

1. Track symptoms carefully

Patterns, timings, triggers and durations matter. A symptom diary can help you and your GP spot what fits menopause — and what does not.

2. Ask your GP to rule out alternatives

This may include thyroid tests, blood pressure checks, iron levels, ECGs or autoimmune screenings depending on the symptoms.

3. Don’t assume every new symptom is hormonal

New, severe, sudden or persistent symptoms should always be checked.

4. If starting HRT, monitor improvements realistically

Some symptoms may improve, some may not — and that can be a clue.

5. Remember: perimenopause can co-exist with other conditions

You don’t stop getting illnesses just because your hormones are fluctuating.

A More Nuanced Conversation

The menopause should neither be minimised nor used as an umbrella term that obscures other diagnoses. Greater awareness is empowering — but only when paired with accurate medical assessment.

The real “menopause myth” isn’t that symptoms exist. It’s the belief that menopause is the explanation for everything a woman experiences in midlife.

Women deserve more than one-size-fits-all answers. They deserve personalised, thorough healthcare that recognises the complexity of the body — hormonal or otherwise.

If in doubt, ask questions, seek clarity, and don’t be afraid to push for proper checks. Identifying the real cause of symptoms is not only reassuring, it can be life-changing.

See also:- "The Curious Case of Fad Medical Diagnoses: Stress, Viruses, and Obesity" https://thats-health.blogspot.com/2025/06/the-curious-case-of-fad-medical.html

Home care provider Elder urges Chancellor to end pension rumours ahead of Autumn Budget

Pete Dowds of Elder

Elder, the UK’s leading care home care platform, has urged Chancellor Rachel Reeves to put an end to rumours regarding tax-free pension changes by providing clarity ahead of the Autumn Budget.

Media and analysts have speculated that Reeves could make changes to the 25% tax-free Pension Commencement Lump Sum (PCLS), which, in turn has seen a heightened level of pension withdrawals and anxiety for taxpayers.

According to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the money withdrawn from pensions soared by more than a third in 2024/25, jumping from £52.2 to £70.9 billion.

Elder Founder and CEO Pete Dowds said that the Chancellor’s silence on the PCLS was forcing families into irreversible financial decisions.

“The cost of leaving families in this state of uncertainty is far too high, and savers who have worked diligently to provide for their later years deserve stability and assurance,” he told That's Food and Drink.

“We strongly urge the Chancellor to address this speculation now, before the Budget, to safeguard the retirement plans of millions of hardworking families.”

Mr Dowds said that the PCLS was the most crucial source of accessible capital used to cover the upfront costs of care for self-funding families, and if changes were made, it would also undermine the Government’s ‘Home First’ objective to support people at home and improve hospital flow.

“The tax-free lump sum provides the essential bridge that allows people to afford high-quality live-in care, keeping them independent and actively supporting the reduction of pressure on the NHS,” he said.

“Any budget measure that diminishes the value of this tax-efficient capital would hasten the depletion of families’ savings, undermining their ability to self-fund.”

FACTFILE:-

In its tenth year, Elder is an award-winning home care platform that matches older adults with self-employed carers for flexible and personalised home care across the UK. 

Founded on the principle that home is the best place to age, Elder is committed to delivering solutions that enhance patient dignity and provide families with peace of mind. Elder has helped to deliver more than 15 million hours of home care across the UK.

https://www.elder.org/live-in-care

Cabbage Soup for the Soul: The Myths and Truths of the Cabbage Soup Diet

Whilst eating my wife's delicious homemade cabbage soup one lunchtime we began reminiscing about the famed cabbage soup diet of several years ago and I realised it was time to write a blogpost about this largely forgotten diet of several years ago.

Few diets have been as talked about, tried, and teased as the famous Cabbage Soup Diet. From office lunchrooms to celebrity gossip magazines, this simple, low-calorie plan has achieved near-legendary status over the years. 

But how much of what we hear about it is true, and how much is pure myth? Let’s lift the lid on the pot and see what’s really simmering inside.

The Origins of the Cabbage Soup Diet

The Cabbage Soup Diet dates back to the late 1980s or early 1990s, though its exact beginnings are unclear. 

Some claim it started as a hospital diet to help patients lose weight quickly before surgery (a claim with no real proof), while others say it emerged from the rise of fad diets promising dramatic, short-term results.

What’s certain is that it’s a seven-day eating plan centred around a hearty vegetable soup made mostly from cabbage, onions, celery, peppers, tomatoes, and carrots. Other foods are introduced in a strict daily pattern—such as fruit on day one, vegetables on day two, bananas and milk on day four, and lean meat by day five.

There were even Cabbage Soup Diet tablets that were available filled with essence of cabbage soup at one time! 

The Myths

Myth 1: You Can Lose a Stone in a Week

It’s true that many people lose a noticeable amount of weight during the week, sometimes half a stone or more. 

However, much of that is water weight, not fat loss. When you cut calories drastically and reduce carbohydrates, your body sheds water quickly. Once normal eating resumes, most of that weight tends to return.

Myth 2: It’s a Healthy, Sustainable Diet

While cabbage and vegetables are full of nutrients, the diet itself is not balanced. It’s low in protein, essential fats, and key vitamins such as B12. Following it for more than a week can leave you feeling tired, irritable, and lacking energy.

Myth 3: Cabbage Has “Fat-Burning” Powers

Unfortunately, there’s no magical fat-burning enzyme in cabbage. The diet works purely because of extreme calorie restriction, not because cabbage has any special slimming properties.

The Truths

Truth 1: It Can Kick-Start Weight Loss

If you’re looking to break unhealthy habits, a short stint on the Cabbage Soup Diet can help you feel lighter, reduce bloating, and reset your mindset around portion sizes.

Truth 2: It Encourages Vegetable Intake

The diet does make you eat a lot of fresh vegetables, something many of us could do more of. For some, it’s a helpful way to rediscover the value of home-cooked, plant-based meals.

Truth 3: It’s Cheap and Simple

In a world full of expensive shakes and subscription meal plans, the Cabbage Soup Diet stands out for being budget-friendly. A head of cabbage, some onions, and a few tins of tomatoes cost very little, making it appealing to anyone wanting to cut back without breaking the bank.

So, Should You Try It?

If you’re after quick but temporary results, the Cabbage Soup Diet can deliver that short burst of motivation. But it’s not a long-term solution. The NHS and most UK dietitians advise focusing on a balanced plan with lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of fruit and veg for sustainable, healthy weight management.

That said, there’s nothing wrong with using the Cabbage Soup Diet as a gentle reset—just don’t expect miracles or plan to live on cabbage forever!

Cabbage Soup for the Soul

Perhaps the real secret isn’t in the diet at all, but in the ritual of making soup. Preparing fresh vegetables, simmering them slowly, and sitting down to a warm, comforting bowl can be therapeutic in itself. The process helps reconnect us with real food, and that’s nourishment for both body and soul.

The Cabbage Soup Diet may not be a magic solution, but it remains a reminder that sometimes the simplest foods can help us start again. If you do give it a go, treat it as a short-term boost, then move on to a more balanced, sustainable way of eating.

As for the Cabbage Soup Diet tablets or Cabbage Soup Diet soup mixes that are available, we can make no comment on their efficacy!

If you want to try the Cabbage Soup Diet plan, here it is:-

Printable 7-Day Cabbage Soup Diet Plan

Disclaimer: This plan is for short-term use only and should not replace a balanced, long-term diet. Always check with a healthcare professional before starting any restrictive eating plan.

Day 1 – Fruit Day

Unlimited cabbage soup

Any fruit except bananas

Water, black coffee, or unsweetened tea

Day 2 – Vegetable Day

Unlimited cabbage soup

Any vegetables (fresh, steamed, or raw) except peas, corn, or beans

A baked potato with a small knob of butter for dinner

Day 3 – Fruit and Vegetable Day

Cabbage soup plus any fruits and vegetables (no potato today)

Keep hydrated with water or herbal tea

Day 4 – Banana and Milk Day

Up to 3 bananas

2 pints (1.2 litres) of skimmed milk

Cabbage soup as often as you like

Day 5 – Protein and Tomatoes

6 fresh tomatoes

Lean beef, chicken, or fish (approx. 300–400g total)

Cabbage soup at least once during the day

Drink at least 6–8 glasses of water

Day 6 – Protein and Vegetables

Lean beef, chicken, or fish

Any non-starchy vegetables

Unlimited cabbage soup

Day 7 – Rice and Vegetables

Brown rice, vegetables, and cabbage soup

Sugar-free fruit juice optional

Modernised Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe

This version keeps the soul of the original but improves the nutrition and flavour — so it’s tasty enough to enjoy beyond the diet week.

Ingredients (serves 6–8)

½ medium white cabbage, shredded

2 onions, diced

2 celery stalks, sliced

2 carrots, chopped

1 green pepper, diced

2 garlic cloves, crushed

1 tin (400g) chopped tomatoes

1 litre low-salt vegetable stock

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp paprika

½ tsp chilli flakes (optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pan and gently sauté the onions, garlic, celery, and carrots for 5 minutes.

Add the peppers, cabbage, and spices; stir well.

Pour in the stock and tomatoes, bring to a gentle boil.

Simmer for 30 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Taste and adjust seasoning; garnish with parsley before serving.

Nutritional Note:

This soup is low in calories, high in fibre, and full of vitamins A, C, and K. Adding a handful of cooked lentils or beans makes it more balanced if you’re not strictly following the diet.

Bringing It All Together

Whether you’re looking to reset your eating habits, save money, or simply enjoy a warming, wholesome soup, the Cabbage Soup Diet can be a mindful start to a healthier routine, just remember it’s the first step, not the destination.

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Understanding the Side Effects of Each COVID-19 Vaccine: What You Need to Know

As the UK continues to manage COVID-19 as an endemic virus, vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to prevent severe illness and hospitalisation. 

However, it’s perfectly natural to want to understand what side effects might occur after getting your jab or booster

Here’s a straightforward guide to the most common, less common and rare side effects for each of the main vaccines used in the UK: Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty), Moderna (Spikevax), Novavax, and the earlier AstraZeneca vaccine.

Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty)

Pfizer is the most widely used COVID-19 vaccine in the UK and has an excellent safety record.

Common side effects:

Soreness or redness where the injection was given

Fatigue and mild headache

Muscle or joint pain

Slight fever or chills

Feeling generally under the weather for a day or two

Less common effects:

Swollen lymph nodes (especially under the arm where you were jabbed)

Nausea or mild dizziness

Rare effects:

Myocarditis or pericarditis (inflammation of the heart or its lining), particularly in young men. Symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, or a fluttering heartbeat. This reaction is rare and usually mild.

Moderna (Spikevax)

Moderna works in a similar way to Pfizer and offers strong protection.

Common side effects:

Pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site

Headache and tiredness

Mild fever or chills

Muscle or joint aches

Less common effects:

Swelling of the lymph nodes

Temporary skin rash or itching

Menstrual cycle changes, though these are short-term

Rare effects:

Myocarditis and pericarditis, again mainly seen in younger men after the second dose. These cases are rare and usually resolve with rest and medical care.

Novavax

Novavax, a protein-based vaccine, is sometimes offered as an alternative for those who cannot have an mRNA vaccine.

Common side effects:

Tenderness at the injection site

Headache, fatigue, or feeling feverish

Muscle pain or nausea

Less common effects:

Mild swelling of lymph nodes

Dizziness or slight changes in blood pressure

Rare effects:

Allergic reactions (very uncommon and treated immediately if they occur)

AstraZeneca (Vaxzevria)

While no longer routinely used for boosters in the UK, many people received AstraZeneca for their primary doses.

Common side effects:

Soreness or mild swelling at the injection site

Fatigue and headache

Mild fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms lasting 24–48 hours

Less common effects:

Nausea or mild vomiting

Feeling faint or light-headed

Rare effects:

Blood clots with low platelets (thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome) – a very rare side effect, affecting fewer than 15 people per million doses

Severe allergic reactions (extremely rare and treated promptly)

What You Should Do After Vaccination

If you experience mild side effects such as soreness, headache or fever, these can usually be managed with rest and paracetamol. They are signs that your immune system is responding as it should.

However, seek urgent medical advice from NHS 111 or your GP if you develop:

Chest pain or persistent pressure

Shortness of breath

Swelling, blurred vision or severe headache

Unusual bruising or bleeding

A rash that doesn’t fade when pressed

COVID-19 vaccines continue to undergo thorough safety monitoring by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). 

Millions of doses have been safely administered across the UK, and the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the small risk of side effects.

For personalised medical advice, especially if you have a history of allergic reactions or heart conditions, speak to your GP or local vaccination centre before booking your next dose.

Stay informed. Stay healthy. Stay protected.

For more updates on vaccination, health and wellbeing, visit That’s Health.

Why BMI Shouldn’t Be the Be-All and End-All of Weight Management

BMI is often used as the main measure of health and weight, but it can be misleading. 

Discover why BMI isn’t the full picture and what to focus on instead for better weight management and wellbeing.

Understanding BMI and Its Limitations

Body Mass Index (BMI) has long been used to classify people as underweight, a healthy weight, overweight, or obese. It’s calculated by dividing your weight (in kilograms) by your height (in metres squared).

While it’s easy to use, BMI doesn’t show what your body weight is made of, and that’s a serious limitation. It can’t tell the difference between fat, muscle, or bone, so it often gives an incomplete or misleading picture of overall health.

Why BMI Alone Can Be Misleading

Two people can share the same BMI but have completely different health profiles.

A rugby player or gym-goer might register as “obese” due to muscle mass.

Someone with a “normal” BMI might have higher visceral fat, the dangerous type that wraps around organs and raises the risk of heart disease and diabetes.

BMI can’t tell the difference between fat and muscle, nor does it show where that fat is stored. That’s why it should be used only as one part of a wider health picture.

Ethnicity, Age and Sex All Play a Role

BMI fails to account for natural variations between people.

Women naturally carry more body fat than men.

Older adults often lose muscle and bone density, lowering BMI without improving health.

People of South Asian or Black heritage may face increased risks of diabetes or heart disease at lower BMIs than standard NHS guidelines suggest.

Health is personal, and one size, or one number, doesn’t fit all.

Better Ways to Assess Health

For a clearer picture of your wellbeing, consider these more reliable tools:

Waist-to-hip ratio or waist circumference – A better measure of fat distribution and heart disease risk.

Body composition analysis – Shows fat, muscle, and water percentages.

Blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels – Key indicators of metabolic health.

Fitness and mobility – Flexibility, endurance, and energy are better measures of wellness.

Lifestyle habits – Nutrition, sleep, hydration, and stress levels all play major roles.

Chasing a “perfect” BMI can damage self-esteem and lead to unhealthy dieting or over-exercising. True wellbeing includes mental and emotional balance, not just physical weight.

If you’re working on improving your health, focus on how you feel — not just what you weigh.

Practical advice on ditching diet guilt and creating a healthier, happier approach to eating.

A Holistic Approach to Weight Management

Real, sustainable health comes from small, consistent habits — nutritious meals, regular movement, good sleep, and self-care.

Rather than striving for a number on a chart, focus on vitality, energy, and confidence. When you take care of your body as a whole, your natural healthy weight will follow.

BMI can provide a rough guide, but it shouldn’t define you. Every body is different, and health can’t be reduced to a single statistic.

If you want to understand your weight and wellbeing more deeply, speak with a GP, nutritionist, or fitness professional who looks at the full picture, not just your BMI.

How to Cope When Your Spouse Has Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Practical advice for couples facing the winter blues.

As the days shorten and the light fades, many people notice a dip in mood and energy. For some, however, this goes far beyond feeling “a bit low.” Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a recognised type of depression that appears during the darker months, and if your spouse suffers from it, both of you may feel its effects.

This guide from That’s Health explores how you can support your partner while looking after your own wellbeing too.

Understanding SAD in Relationships

Seasonal Affective Disorder is caused primarily by reduced sunlight, which disrupts the body’s internal clock and affects serotonin and melatonin levels. Common symptoms include:

Persistent low mood or loss of interest in usual activities

Increased need for sleep or difficulty waking up

Irritability, withdrawal, or low motivation

Cravings for carbohydrates or comfort foods

Difficulty concentrating

When your spouse’s personality seems to shift with the season, it can be upsetting, but recognising that SAD is a genuine medical condition, not a choice, helps you respond with empathy rather than frustration.

Encourage Professional Help

If your spouse hasn’t yet sought medical support, encourage them to talk to their GP. There are effective treatments available, including:

Light therapy lamps that mimic natural sunlight and help regulate mood

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which teaches coping techniques

Medication (such as antidepressants) for more severe cases

Offer to help them book an appointment, attend with them, or keep a mood diary to share with their doctor. Sometimes, simply showing that you take their condition seriously can be reassuring.

Create a Light-Filled, Positive Environment at Home

You can make your home a brighter, more uplifting space with a few small adjustments:

Open curtains fully during the day and trim back any outdoor plants blocking windows

Use bright, warm lighting indoors

Encourage time spent near windows or outdoors when possible

Consider using a dawn simulator alarm clock that gradually brightens in the morning

Even subtle increases in light exposure can make a noticeable difference.

Coping as a Couple During the Darker Months

When one partner is struggling, it affects the relationship as a whole. Try to face the season as a team.

Plan together: Schedule small, enjoyable activities to look forward to

Keep communication open: Talk honestly about how you’re both feeling

Don’t take withdrawal personally: Your partner’s quietness or irritability is likely a symptom, not a reflection of you

Remember, the goal is to support your spouse, not to “fix” them. Listening and being present can often be the best medicine.

Encourage Gentle Activity and Fresh Air

Exercise can lift mood and energy, but motivation can be low during a SAD episode. Instead of pressuring your spouse, offer gentle encouragement:

Invite them for a short walk together during daylight hours

Try easy home workouts or stretching sessions

Combine movement with pleasure, for example, a stroll through a Christmas market or along a scenic winter trail

It’s the companionship and gradual reintroduction to light that count most.

Look After Yourself Too

Supporting a partner with depression can be emotionally draining. To stay strong and positive:

Maintain your own social life and hobbies

Share how you’re feeling with trusted friends or family

Seek support if you begin to feel overwhelmed

You can only truly support your spouse if you protect your own mental wellbeing too.

Winter Wellbeing Tips for Couples

Make the darker months more bearable, even enjoyable, by embracing small, cosy routines:

Cook comforting, nutritious meals together

Watch uplifting films under a blanket

Explore seasonal activities such as light festivals or winter crafts

Take Vitamin D supplements (check with your GP first)

Add bright indoor plants to boost mood and oxygen levels

Finding light, warmth, and laughter in simple moments helps combat the gloom of winter.

When to Seek Urgent Help

If your spouse shows signs of deep depression, such as hopelessness, talk of self-harm, or emotional withdrawal, don’t wait. Seek help immediately.

In the UK, you can contact:

Samaritans – Call 116 123 (24/7, free)

NHS 111 – For urgent mental health support

Mind – Visit mind.org.uk for advice and online resources

Supporting your spouse through Seasonal Affective Disorder takes patience, understanding, and teamwork. By combining medical guidance, gentle lifestyle changes, and plenty of compassion, you can help them find hope and stability even in the darkest months of the year.

And remember, spring will come again, bringing warmth, sunlight, and renewal for you both.

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Confusion Over COVID Vaccination Eligibility. Why Many at-Risk People Are Suddenly Left Out

It appears that the government rules on the shingles aren't the only vaccination programme that is causing confusion, upset and misery. 

As winter approaches, many people across the UK are once again turning their thoughts to protecting themselves from seasonal illnesses such as flu and COVID-19. 

But this year, a wave of confusion has swept through communities as changes to the NHS’s COVID-19 vaccination eligibility rules have quietly removed large numbers of people who were previously entitled to free jabs.

Until recently, individuals with chronic conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, asthma, heart disease, or autoimmune issues were automatically classed as being “at higher risk” and therefore eligible for the free NHS COVID booster. For many, this protection became an important part of their annual health routine, a reassurance that their conditions were being taken seriously.

Now, however, the latest guidance has changed, and not everyone has realised. Under the new rules, only those aged 70 and over, people living in care homes, or those who are clinically extremely vulnerable (such as transplant patients or those on strong immunosuppressive therapy) are automatically offered the jab. Many others who were once eligible have been quietly moved off the list.

This means that someone aged 55 with well-managed Type 2 diabetes or mild asthma, who received free vaccinations in previous years, is now told they are not eligible and must pay privately if they still wish to be vaccinated. 

Understandably, this has caused frustration and confusion, especially given that COVID infections continue to circulate and that many people in these groups still consider themselves at higher risk.

While NHS officials say the new policy focuses on “those most likely to benefit,” critics argue that it creates unnecessary uncertainty and risk for people with underlying conditions that can still make COVID serious. 

It also places extra strain on GPs and pharmacists, who are having to field a flood of questions about eligibility and referrals. 

I booked my regular COVID vaccination through the NHS app and had a confirmed booking at the pharmacist the app suggested. When I arrived at the pharmacy he told me that as someone with Type 2 Diabetes and Asthma I was now no longer eligible for the COVID vaccination and he was shocked that the NHS app had issued me with an appointment. 

He suggested I consider getting a private vaccination and when I asked if he could offer that service he said it wasn't something his pharmacy could offer, but suggested I booked an appointment with Boots. The member of staff I initially spoke to wasn't aware that the eligibility criteria had changed, which added another later of confusion. 

So, f you find yourself newly excluded from the NHS programme, it is worth considering a private COVID vaccination. Many high-street pharmacies, including Boots and Superdrug, are now offering private COVID boosters for around £45–£50 per dose. Appointments are usually easy to book online, and the same approved vaccines are used as in NHS settings.

For people managing chronic conditions, or those who live or work closely with vulnerable individuals, paying for private vaccination may be a worthwhile investment in peace of mind and continued protection.

If you’re unsure about your eligibility or health status, check the latest NHS advice online or speak to your GP or pharmacist. But one thing is clear: with the guidance changing so dramatically, it’s more important than ever to stay informed and proactive about your protection this winter.

I was eventually able to book my COVID shot with Boots.

Why You Should Get the Shingles Vaccination – Even If You Have to Pay for It

Shingles isn’t just “a bit of a rash.” It’s an agonising, nerve-related condition caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus. 

Once you’ve had chickenpox, that virus never leaves your body; it simply lies dormant, waiting for an opportunity to reactivate later in life. 

When it does, it reappears as shingles,  a painful, blistering rash that can lead to months (or even years) of nerve pain known as postherpetic neuralgia.

As a sufferer from shingles I can confirm that it is a nasty, painful condition. And it was my struggles to try to understand the NHS rules that prompted me to research and write this blogpost and to eventually fund my own shingles vaccination.

The NHS Rules: A Maze of Eligibility

In theory, the NHS offers a free shingles vaccination to protect people from this debilitating illness. In practice, the rules about who qualifies and when they qualify are bafflingly complex.

Under current NHS guidelines in England, the free shingles vaccine is available to people aged 70 to 79, and now also those turning 65 on or after 1 September 2023. But if you’re 66, 67, 68 or 69, you’re expected to wait, even though your risk of shingles doesn’t magically disappear until the NHS sends an invite.

Worse still, these rules vary across the UK. In Scotland and Wales, eligibility criteria differ again. The result? Many people who would benefit from the vaccine find themselves excluded simply because of their birth date or postcode.

It’s a frustrating situation, and it leaves a huge number of adults in their 50s and 60s without protection, despite shingles being most common in older adults and those with weakened immune systems.

Why Paying for the Vaccine Is Worth It

If you’re not eligible for a free NHS jab, it’s well worth paying privately. Pharmacies such as Boots, Lloyds, and Superdrug offer the Shingrix vaccine, which provides excellent long-term protection and can be administered in two doses a few months apart.

Here’s why it’s worth considering, even out of pocket:

Avoid excruciating pain: Shingles can be intensely painful, often described as burning or stabbing.

Prevent complications: The condition can cause scarring, nerve damage, vision loss (if it affects the eyes), and in rare cases, serious neurological problems.

Reduce time off work or daily disruption: Shingles can leave sufferers exhausted and unable to function for weeks. My late father was so ill with shingles that his doctor ordered him to take bedrest for a week. 

Protect your long-term health: The older you get, the more severe shingles tends to be, so prevention is key.

The cost of the vaccine privately is typically around £200–£250 for the full course. That might sound steep, but compared to the months of pain, doctor visits, and medication that shingles can bring, it’s an investment in comfort and quality of life.

The NHS Needs Simplification

While it’s excellent that the NHS provides the vaccine for some, the staggered, age-based rollout has turned something simple into a bureaucratic nightmare. Many people eligible in theory are confused by the shifting rules or unaware they qualify at all. Others are left wondering why they must wait years to get protection that’s readily available in other developed countries for anyone over 50.

Until the NHS streamlines its approach and offers the shingles vaccine more widely, taking control of your own health and arranging a private jab may well be the most sensible move.

Bottom line: Don’t wait for a letter. Don’t risk weeks or months of unnecessary suffering. Whether free or paid for, the shingles vaccination is one of the smartest health decisions you can make.

It was one of the best decisions I have ever made. 

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Eight Years of Home Care: The carer who became family to her dementia client

As told to Mark Acheson of Elder.org.

While live-in care promotes longevity and continuity, there are very few instances where a carer resides in the home for a remarkable eight years.

​For Mr John Beard and his late wife Jean, this was precisely the case. The bond they formed with their carer, Oyeyemi ‘Yemi’ Olaseinde, was undeniable.

​“She used to call me dad,” said a smiling Mr Beard.

​Yemi’s eight years of continuous care meant putting her life in London on hold, spending months at a time away from her two daughters. During the pandemic, and as Jean’s dementia worsened, Yemi stayed with the couple for six consecutive months.

​This is the longest care placement Elder has facilitated, and perhaps one of the longest examples of “loving care” as Mr Beard describes it, in the country.

​We travel to the sleepy but strikingly beautiful part of the UK, Great Longstone in the Peak District, where Mr Beard resides in the Bungalow built for Jean. It’s a home brimming with character and rich in memories.

Greeted at the door by the 90-something-year-old, Mr Beard ushers us over to a framed photo of the couple from their 1954 wedding, and a certificate from the Queen of England acknowledging their diamond anniversary.

​As we’re seated in the living room, Mr Beard hands over his wife’s funeral programme and remarks on her picture.

​“That was taken when I went into the RAF,” he said.

​“We got married on July 10, 1954, and I was called up in October.

​“I had it by my locker.”

​Mr and Mrs Beard dated from the ages of 16 to 22; their bond solidified at a local church youth club. The couple’s first encounter, or rather Jean first laying eyes on John, was rather comical.

​“She once saw me riding to school and thought my cycling was somewhat ungainly," he said, chuckling.

​She said to a friend ‘Who’s that drip?’, and she put up with that drip for 71 years.

​“She was a bit shy, she was interested in everything, she was straightforward.

“She was my all.”

​After Mr Beard left the RAF in 1956, as part of his national service, the couple moved to Sheffield to raise a family. With the welcomed addition of their two children, Alastair and Fiona, the family moved several times before residing in Ashford In The Water, not five kilometres from their Dagenham bungalow.

Jean ran the home whilst devoting her time to her local community. She served as treasurer and a committee member for The Ashford Institute and The Women’s Institute, an organisation that provides a space for women to connect, learn new skills, and campaign on issues. She also volunteered for numerous years at the Bakewell Red Cross Store.

​Mr Beard built himself a successful career as an accountant, joining what had been his grandfather’s firm in Sheffield. In retirement, he became heavily involved with the Freemasons. As a member of the charitable committee, he ultimately earned himself the title of Deputy Grand Master for Derbyshire.

​Noticing the signs of dementia

​Upon Jean’s dementia diagnosis in 2009, it became apparent to Mr Beard that their home of 32 years, a converted 200-year-old barn in Foolow, wasn’t adequate for his wife’s needs.

​Relocating to their bungalow a year later, Mr Beard recalled the time both he and Jean realised her condition was worsening.

​“She’d taken our grandson to swimming. She had come out (in her vehicle) and didn’t know which way to turn. She turned left instead of right. It was then that I realised that something was wrong.”

​“Then we went through all the different stages they go through. They worry about curtains getting pulled, doors being locked.

​“Then it gets to the stage where they don’t worry. So in a way it’s good, but it also means they’re at a lower stage.”

​It wasn’t until a fall, in which Mrs Beard fractured her pelvis, that Mr Beard realised he needed help.

​“At that stage I had to do something,” he said.

​“Whilst I could help her during the day, I couldn’t do the night bit as well.”

​More than just a carer

At first, the idea of having a carer in the home can be daunting for most, but the help from carer Yemi proved invaluable in so many ways.

​Within a few weeks, Yemi and Mrs Beard bonded. Between the care duties, they watched television, shopped, and completed puzzles, a favourite hobby of Mrs Beard’s before her diagnosis.

​Mr Beard recalls the smells of Nigerian cooking and how Yemi referred to him as “dad”.

​“She was very capable at caring, and she looked after Jean very well,” he said.

​For eight years, the Beards, John, Fiona and Alastair, entrusted Yemi to their loved ones’ care. Yemi became the foundation of Jean’s world, and in turn, the family rallied to see Yemi return home to London for breaks when she could.

​Mr Beard would pay for Yemi’s train tickets where he could, and Alastair would drive her back to London.

​Before going on break, Yemi made sure that John and Jean found the best respite carer.

​“We always tried to get the same carers, and Yemi was insistent she got the right person,” Mr Beard said.

​“Yemi and I used to look at carers and make our decisions together.

​“She (Jean) would settle when Yemi was away, but she always knew her when she came back.”

​Away from her two daughters, Yemi was embraced as a member of the family and cared for Mrs Beard until her peaceful passing in March this year.

The benefits of live-in care

​There was no doubt in Mr Beard’s mind that home, as opposed to a care home, was where his wife needed to be. Continuity of care and a familiar environment were paramount to Jean’s health, safety, and peace of mind.

​“The fact that she was here (home) and I was here, it made life much better for her, and much better for us,” he said.

​“Home every time.”

​With the bungalow just around the corner from their daughter's home, the couple could expect regular visits from their grandchildren. This, Mr Beard said, used to “pluck up” his wife, especially as her dementia worsened.

​“You tried telling her that you loved her very much, but you weren’t sure she was getting it,” he said.

​“Towards the end, there wasn’t much reaction, but one breakfast time, I went in and got the most dazzling smile. It was like a ray of sunshine.”

​Carer becomes a family member

​Yemi knows all too well the hardships faced regarding a dementia diagnosis.

​Looking after her grandmother, who lived with dementia, inspired her to become a carer.

​“I like being a companion,” she said.

​“That’s what a lot of the elderly want. A companion, a friend.”

​Yemi’s longest placement with John and Jean Beard was for six months during the pandemic. While it was difficult being away from her two daughters for such a lengthy period, she described the Beard family as “marvellous”.

​“Mrs Beard was used to me,” she said.

“I knew all of the family, the grandchildren, everyone.

“When it came time for the placement to end, Mr Beard didn’t want me to go.”

Mr Beard and Yemi still stay connected via regular phone calls.

​The importance of an early dementia diagnosis

​Mr Beard stressed the importance of looking out for signs of dementia and seeking help and a diagnosis immediately.

​“First of all, you’ve got to realise the symptoms and you’ve got to make sure you get them looked at by a psychiatrist, via a doctor, because the signs are always there,” he said.

“It needs to be diagnosed at an early stage, and I’m all for that.”

​Elder’s Head of Clinical, Bianca Wardle, concurs.

​“From a clinical standpoint, an early dementia diagnosis is fundamentally the most important step a family can take, as it reduces uncertainty and gives the person and their families a greater sense of control,” she said.

​“An early diagnosis allows families to develop a personalised care plan, involve relevant professionals, and introduce supportive therapies while the person can fully participate.

​“Most importantly, it gives families the time to make informed decisions about care and future planning before a crisis hits.

​“Waiting until symptoms worsen can make planning more challenging, may lead to last-minute decisions that affect the person's dignity and well-being, and could contribute to a faster progression of their condition."

https://www.elder.org/live-in-care

Discover the Power of Grass & Co Biome Chaga Mushroom Powder. Natural Support for Your Gut and Immune Health

As the wellness world continues to rediscover the power of nature, one ancient remedy is standing out among the rest: Chaga mushroom. 

Long used in traditional herbal medicine, this powerful fungus is known for its ability to support immunity, gut health, and overall vitality. 

Now, British wellness brand Grass & Co has harnessed that power in their beautifully crafted Biome Chaga Mushroom Powder, a simple, effective way to bring balance and natural energy into your daily routine.

What Is Chaga Mushroom?

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) is a nutrient-dense mushroom that grows mainly on birch trees in cold northern climates. While it doesn’t look much like the mushrooms you see in the supermarket (it’s a hard, charcoal-like mass), it’s bursting with antioxidants, beta-glucans, and adaptogenic properties that help the body manage stress and inflammation.

Traditionally, Chaga was brewed into a tea and used to strengthen immunity and improve digestion. Modern research supports these uses, noting that Chaga’s polyphenols and melanin compounds may help protect cells from oxidative stress — the kind linked to ageing and chronic illness.

Why Choose Grass & Co Biome Chaga Mushroom Powder?

Grass & Co has built its reputation on clean, plant-based wellness, and their Biome range takes that philosophy even further. This organic Chaga powder is:

100% natural and sustainably sourced

Vegan, gluten-free, and additive-free

Rich in antioxidants and gut-friendly prebiotics

Blended and packaged in the UK

Each serving contains concentrated Chaga extract that’s easy to mix into smoothies, coffee, porridge, or even soups. It’s earthy, mild, and blends seamlessly, so perfect for those who want to support their microbiome, immunity, and energy levels naturally.

Gut Health and Immunity: The Biome Connection

Grass & Co’s “Biome” name isn’t just branding, it’s a nod to the gut microbiome, the ecosystem of good bacteria that influences everything from mood to immunity. Chaga mushroom powder supports this internal environment by acting as a natural prebiotic, feeding beneficial bacteria and helping balance digestion.

A healthy gut can:

Boost nutrient absorption

Support immune resilience

Improve skin health

Promote emotional wellbeing

When paired with a balanced diet and lifestyle, Chaga becomes part of a holistic approach to wellness that’s both ancient and modern.

How to Use It

Using Grass & Co Biome Chaga Mushroom Powder is simple:

Add ½ to 1 teaspoon to a smoothie, hot chocolate, or your morning coffee.

Stir into warm plant milk with cinnamon or cocoa for a soothing evening drink.

Mix into porridge or overnight oats for an antioxidant-rich breakfast.

Its flavour is subtle, slightly earthy with notes of vanilla and birch,making it easy to incorporate without overpowering other tastes.

The Bottom Line

Grass & Co Biome Chaga Mushroom Powder brings centuries of herbal wisdom into modern, everyday living. If you’re looking for a gentle yet effective way to support your gut health, immune function, and natural energy, this beautifully packaged, UK-made product is well worth exploring.

It’s an easy daily ritual for better balance.

To purchase please visit https://amzn.to/4oNkQBy

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