Stirling council in Scotland has launched a project to battle loneliness in older and vulnerable people.
LinkAge Stirling aims to reduce social isolation by helping people feel more connected with their communities.
Launched in North Rural Stirling, the pilot project will make use of the area’s high percentage of elderly residents – with one in five of the area’s population currently over the age of 65 and projections indicating this will rise to almost one in three by 2032.
With one of the longest drive and public transport times in Scotland to access key services such as GP surgeries, it’s hoped the project would meet challenges in the area, such as distance, health and mobility issues and combat loneliness and mental health problems in older people.
The council is set to introduce a LinkAge co-ordinator for area, who will assist people to access services and activities locally, help them to meet more people in their community, provide information and advice on the support available and help to build confidence and promote independence.
Social isolation can often have a detrimental effect on the lives of older members of our communities
Convenor of the social care and health committee and SNP councillor, Scott Farmer, said: “This project will help older people make connections that will improve their quality of life, while allowing them to remain within their own homes and communities.
