EngAGE
Throughout Scotland the population demographics are shifting. The number of over 65s is expected to increase by almost 30% by 2045. This growing population of over 65s will impact everyone in Scotland in different ways. Increasing numbers of hospital beds are unnecessarily occupied by patients with no suitable alternative place to live, often in part due to the lack of social support available. Social isolation can negatively affect health and a recent survey found that ‘only a fifth of over 50s in Scotland feel that they are valued by society’. Scotland’s health services are already under strain – wait times for access to support for both physical and mental health exceed the targets set by the NHS. To support those in need we must work intergenerationally to create an age-inclusive system. With a focus on promoting physical fitness and brain health we can allow people to live happier, healthier lives for longer.
The University could focus on solutions that will change younger people’s perceptions of older people, helping increase over 65’s social support and strengthen community links. These could take the form of collaborative events between societies, sports clubs and volunteering projects, welcoming over 65-year-old guests to attend events. Lifelong learning programmes, tailored towards older people, could be offered by the university. This offers the opportunity to benefit cognition, social-connectedness and improve digital literacy. These initiatives have the potential to boost the morale of older generations, help them reconnect with others and feel like valued members of society again.