Crisis Of Confidence For Ageing Population

A crisis of confidence exists among older people in Scotland because of the “overwhelmingly negative” portrayals of its ageing population. This has been claimed by the WRVS in Scotland, a charity with 12,000 volunteers, 11,000 of them aged 50 or over. And backing for its concern has come from an independent organisation involved in the welfare of the elderly.

Age Concern Scotland accused the country of lagging behind in enabling older people “to speak out.” It called for each government department and local authority to have “an older people’s champion”. It also criticised the under-financing and lack of support for the overwhelming majority of the country’s “plethora” of older people’s forums, groups and organisations.

Both charities’ fears have been raised in their responses to a consultation exercise by the Scottish Executive on drawing up a strategy for the country’s ageing population.

WRVS Scotland, which delivers support services to communities as well as providing vital back-up for people caught up in crises and disasters, has called for a major culture change to overcome the barriers faced by older people despite their positive contributions to society. That had to start with those in the greatest positions of influence, it said.

It warned any removal of what it calls “a bank of skills, commitment and time” would lead to key local services it provided like community transport and Meals on Wheels “disintegrating”.