An event to improve health and social services for older Asian people was held yesterday and hailed a huge success.

Des Pardes - which means Home and Away - was organised by Bradford Social Services in a bid to look at the benefit of giving information to Asian elders through day care centres.

More than 120 people from the South Asian communities turned up for the event which was also attended by Department of Health representative Veena Bahl.

Information officer Akhlaf Rauf said the purpose of the day, held at Carlisle Business Centre, was two-fold.

"Basically the aim was to bring together Asian elders and some service planners from both the health and social services arena, to look at the barriers, needs and perceptions of older Asian people in accessing information and services," she said.

"It was a brilliant day, enjoyed by everyone and we have been given a lot more work to do, which is what we wanted."

As well as talks and advice there were informal workshops in the afternoon.

Mr Rauf said: "We know a lot of Asian people talk about returning home and there is the image that home is a healthier place, with a warmer climate, fresh air, and fruit and vegetables - but actually the reality is that people are here to stay.

"The day was an attempt to bring together elderly people and service providers, like Age Concern and see what facilities are available to make the most of their old age."

Mr Rauf said the aim was not to concentrate on illnesss.

"There are high numbers of heart disease sufferers and instances of diabetes among Asian people but the aim was to provide information and education about what help is on offer," he said.

A document produced in association with community centres across Bradford serving a variety of Asian elderly people reveals there are an estimated 13,000 Asian people over the age of 60 in the district.

According to the report, by the year 2011 there will be an estimated 2,000 South Asian elders aged over 75.

The report concludes: "Asian elders in Bradford feel very much that they are neglected when it comes to service providers planning adequate service provision to meet the needs of their communities."

Manjinder Sarai, community and policy development officer for Age Concern, said: "This event was very useful in pinpointing issues of particular relevance to Asian elders.

"A report will be publshed and hopefully suggestions will be implemented."