Aims to meet the needs of older people better

Age Scotland has launched its new five-year strategy.

Called Action for Change in Older Age, the charity has identified the challenges older people face and sets out its role and plans to address them.

Putting older people at the centre of Age Scotland’s work, the strategy which covers 2025-2030, aims to meet the needs of older people today and in the future. 

Katherine Crawford, chief executive officer of Age Scotland, said: “We have a bold new vision supported by ambitious goals and impactful missions. This honed approach gives us clarity and confidence that our activities are focussed on where we can have the most positive effect on people’s lives. 

“This strategy has been developed through extensive consultation and insight from older people, our members, colleagues and those who support what we do.  And there is a lot of work to do. 

“Scotland has a rapidly ageing population but lacks a plan to support that. The challenges of financial insecurity, low income and poverty faced by older people are significant, and timely access to health and care is a struggle.

“Older people find themselves excluded from society and there is an epidemic of loneliness. The contribution older people make to society, the economy, their community and family, and in the workplace is immeasurable yet so few feel that they are properly heard, recognised or valued. This must change.”