Advantage Issue 48

Advantage

© Tiu Makkonen

Age Scotland’s magazine: winter 2016/17, issue 48

Men’s Sheds, Pg 24

Coastline Challenge, Pg 10 Help us tackle loneliness, Pg 30

foreword

Contents P4

News

P8

Age Scotland Enterprise

P9

Silver Line Scotland

P10

Inform

P18

Inspire

P20

Get Involved

P24

Going Local

P29

Soap box

P30

Interview

Advantage is the Age Scotland magazine that provides information, inspiration and ideas to empower Scotland’s older people, their friends, families and carers.

If you have news, events or issues that you would like Advantage to cover, please get in touch. We would also welcome ideas on how we might improve the magazine.

Email:

advantage@agescotland.org.uk

Telephone: 0333 323 2400 Write to:

Advantage, Age Scotland Causewayside House 160 Causewayside Edinburgh EH9 1PR

ISSN 1747-4515 Advantage is part funded by a grant from the Scottish Government.

Age Scotland aims to ensure information is accurate at time of production and cannot be held liable for any errors or omissions, or for the content of any third party advertisements.

Age Scotland, part of the Age Network, is an independent charity dedicated to improving the later lives of everyone on the ageing journey, within a charitable company limited by guarantee and registered in Scotland. Registration Number: 153343 Charity Number SC010100. Registered Office: Causewayside House, 160 Causewayside, Edinburgh EH9 1PR.

ive xecut E f e i h n, C Brian Sloa

Hi Everyone, Welcome to the winter edition of our Advantage magazine.

With Christmas upon us once more, most of us will be considering how we navigate the festive period and keeping the family happy! Though for a worrying number, Christmas represents another and sometimes even more painful time of the year when they are alone. Age Scotland will be doing all we can, not just at Christmas, but throughout the year to tackle this growing crisis and if you turn to page 30, you can see how you can help us in this work.

I hope you enjoy the magazine, and look forward to seeing you at one of our events in the near future!

As always, we’d love to know what you think about the magazine. If you have any projects, stories or campaigns you’d like us to help showcase, you can get in touch with the team behind Advantage by writing to us at 160 Causewayside, Edinburgh, EH9 1PR, or emailing advantage@agescotland.org.uk.

Bye for now,

Brian Sloan

3

We bring you news of changes at Age Scotland with regards to our partnership with the charity Silver Line; this partnership brought you the helpline, Silver Line Scotland. Due to changes in how the helpline works, Silver Line will be running all of their services from a call centre in England.

A new number for Scotland’s older people

However, we would never leave the thousands of people who call our office in Edinburgh every year without a distinctive Scottish voice to speak to for information, friendship and advice. So we are pleased to announce our new Age Scotland Helpline number. However, though the number is new, you will still be able to speak to the excellent staff who have provided such a valued service for the past three years along with the free publication service that has helped so many people.

The new number is 0800 12 44 222 and turn to page 14 for more information about the helpline.

“Moving has given me a new lease of life”

Mrs Bruneau, Homeowner, Willesden Green

Discover Retirement Living With apartments for sale at stunning locations throughout Scotland.

With our Retirement Living lifestyle, you can enjoy your independence in an environment that offers companionship, privacy and security.

3 Your own privately-owned apartment 3 House Manager to take care of the day-to-day running of the development 3 Homeowners’ Lounge for socialising 3 Camera entry and 24 hour emergency call system 3 Beautiful landscaped gardens 3 Guest suite for family and friends*

We’ve got beautiful developments across Scotland, so wherever you want to live we’ll have a location to suit you: Aberdeen Anstruther^ Bishopbriggs Blairgowrie^ Haddington Inverness^ Kinross Linlithgow

Newton Mearns North Berwick^ Paisley Perth Pollokshields Portobello^ St Andrews

Please call us on 0800 153 3614 or visit mccarthyandstone.co.uk and we’ll help you find the perfect apartment *Additional charge applies. Subject to availability. Coming soon.

4 See latest news at www.agescotland.org.uk ^

LP-SC-ASM-RL-ZZZ-ZZ

Wiltshire Farm Foods - a recipe for an easier life

“It is the best thing I have done getting Wiltshire Farm Foods. It saves family and friends time and me trying to think what I can eat.

Thank you all.”

For people who want to enjoy life to the full, there’s not always enough time in the day to prepare a meal from scratch or go shopping.

With a delicious range of frozen meals delivered directly to the front door, Wiltshire Farm Foods is here to help people eat well and look after themselves in their own home, whatever their plans.

Miss Walker, Edinburgh

Wiltshire Farm Foods provides an unparalleled range of individual delicious, nutritionally balanced frozen meals, (over 300), along with starters, desserts, cakes, soups and breakfasts and they are delivered straight to your freezer.

Our meals can be heated easily in a conventional oven or microwave, from frozen. That means no more shopping, preparation or lifting heavy pots and pans – it will cut down on the washing up too! We cater for most appetites, diets and budgets. And with main meals from just £2.95 our prices are designed to be genuinely affordable, offering good value as well as nutrition and flavour.

“Mum enjoys the meals and it’s a great help to me knowing she can deal with mealtimes.”

Mrs Beattie, Perth

We cover a range of dietary needs including gluten-free, low fat, low salt and reduced/low sugar. There is also our award-winning Soft and Pureed range that has been created for those who have swallowing difficulties.

Another big benefit of Wiltshire Farm Foods is that the service is completely commitment-free, customers can order as much or as little as they like, whenever it suits them. (Minimum order value applies in some areas.)

No contracts, no fuss and regular deliveries.

For more information please contact us on 01764 655 859 or visit www.wiltshirefarmfoods.com.

“Positive, caring and helpful. An asset to both the company and customers.” [on our driver, John] Ms Hogg, Edinburgh

“Good meals delivered to my door by a friendly person – what more do you want.”

Mr Fowler

news inform

CONNECTING PEOPLE TO COMMUNITIES For many, local services are only advertised online, so where do you go to look for information on what’s available in your local area if you don’t use the internet? Well, when people phone Age Scotland’s helpline, one of the services we are able to offer is help to connect you with local initiatives.

Helpline Coordinator Geraldine Day said of the service, “Community Connecting is a great way to show people what is available in their own area. So many people feel disconnected and don’t know how to find out what’s going on locally. Our Community Connecting project aims to reduce social isolation and loneliness within Scotland. We have pulled together a leaflet listing many local groups and organisations that offer friendship and activities from lunch clubs and men’s sheds to dancing and walking groups for older people”.

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8

One of our helpline advisers, Sam Longden, who has been leading on the Community Connecting project has been compiling a list of services across each of Scotland’s 32 different local authorities. Sam is keen to receive information from local groups on activities we may not be aware of. So if you are an Age Scotland member group and would like us to raise awareness of your group or activities Sam would like to hear from you.

If you are interesting in finding out what’s going on in your local area, or you would like us to include information about your group in our leaflet call the Age Scotland helpline free on 0800 12 44 222 and speak with one of our advisers. Alternatively you can email us at helpline@agescotland.org.uk.

Email your events to advantage@agescotland.org.uk

inform news

Dementia awareness coming your way Our Early Stage Dementia project runs free dementia awareness workshops to charities and Age Scotland member groups.

Doug Anthoney previews what’s on offer.

Dementia is a serious topic, but that doesn’t mean learning about it can’t be fun. In fact learning that’s enjoyable it’s more likely to be remembered. That’s why we’ve designed our dementia aware workshops so that everyone can join in, and have fun.

Dementia Awareness training

It used to be that information about dementia was hard to find. However thanks to the internet we now, arguably, have so much information that it’s off-putting. Our workshops aim to break down that barrier by finding the simplest ways of explaining.

Is it possible to demonstrate how dementia affects the brain with balloons? Can parlour games help us understand how we might better communicate with someone who is living with dementia? We give it a try.

Dementia is a workplace issue In April we began raising awareness among employers of how dementia is affecting more and more workplaces as a result of our ageing population and workforce. We now offer specialist training on dementia for workplaces, and have published a free guide for employers. In September we ran a conference to equip union reps to support workers affected by dementia, in partnership Scottish TUC and Alzheimer Scotland. To download the guide or find out more about our workplace training visit www.yourbrainyourjob.scot.

Our workshops typically last 90 minutes. Given a little more time we can explore dementia in greater depth. If less time is available that’s okay, but one hour is the minimum for a workshop to be worthwhile.

Find out more and book your workshop

Free poster!

your age...

Whatever eckedh Get ittorch wit can help

Contact Doug, Richard and Grace: tel: 0333 323 2400 email ESDTeam@agescotland.org.uk. twitter @AgeScotESDTeam. web: www.agescotland.org.uk/ earlystagedementia.

We’re offering member groups a giant poster (A1 size) that promotes healthy active ageing and encourages people to speak to their doctor if they have worries with memory, communication or thinking.

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Reading problems ce h or distan ing dept pes Misjudg or sha olours es king c am Mista rn so d r wo g ttin Hearing rge Fo or seeing ious things anx ling that Fee aren’t there anges ite ch Apet

Get your heart beating faster: nce 30 mins cycle, da walk, mes a week ti three Stop smoking

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To order call 0333 323 2400 or email us at ESDTeam@agescotland.org.uk.

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Email your events to advantage@agescotland.org.uk

7

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Products and services designed for the over 50s • Home Insurance • Travel Insurance

• Car Insurance • Weekly Lottery

• Motor Breakdown • Funeral Plans

Buying these Products & Services supports Age Scotland’s charitable work.

For more information, visit: Age Scotland – Edinburgh Causewayside House 160 Causewayside Edinburgh EH9 1PR

Age Scotland – Glasgow 37 Glassford Street Glasgow G1 1UG

(Open 9am–5pm Monday–Friday)

(Open 9am–5pm Monday–Friday)

Tel: 0800 456 1137*

Tel: 0800 500 3159*

or visit www.agescotland.org.uk/products Age UK Home, Car and Travel Insurance are administered by Ageas Retail Limited. Motor Breakdown is provided by Intana Assistance. Age UK Funeral Plans are provided by Dignity. Brought to you by Age UK Enterprises Limited.

Age UK Insurance is arranged by Age UK Enterprises Limited and arranged and administered by Ageas Retail Limited, who are both authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Ageas Retail Limited is a sister company of Ageas Insurance Limited.

Ageas Retail Limited Registered office: Ageas House, Hampshire Corporate Park, Templars Way, Eastleigh, Hampshire, SO53 3YA. Registered in England and Wales 1324965. FS registered number: 312468.

Age UK Enterprises Limited Registered office: Tavis House, 1-6 Tavistock Square, London, WC1H 9NA. Registered in England and Wales 3156159. FS registered number: 311438. *If you call the 0800 number for Home/Car/Travel Insurance you will be dealing with either an Age UK/Age Scotland office or Ageas Retail Limited.

Benefits and services under the motor breakdown policy are provided by Intana Assistance, a trading style of Collinson Insurance Services Limited, who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FS registered number 311883.

The Age UK Funeral Plan is provided by Advance Planning Limited, a subsidiary of Dignity plc, in association with Age UK Enterprises Limited. Advance Planning Limited is a company incorporated in England and a subsidiary of Dignity plc. Registered office: Advance Planning Limited, 4 King Edwards Court, King Edwards Square, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands B73 6AP. Registered in England, no. 3292336.

Age Scotland Enterprises Limited is a limited company. Registered in Scotland No.SC199856. Registered Office: Causewayside House, 160 Causewayside, Edinburgh, Lothian, EH9 1PR. Age Scotland Enterprises Limited is a trading company of Age Scotland, registered charity no.SC010100 and donates its net profi ts to that charity. Age Scotland Enterprises Limited is an Appointed Representative of Age UK Enterprises Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for insurance mediation. Financial Services Register number 311438.

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Age Scotland’s National Dawn Skelton (left) a of the nd Sabi brillian na Bren t speak nan are j ers at o ust two ur confe rence

Conference and Awards Ceremony

29TH MARCH 2017, PERTH CONCERT HALL, PERTH Members are warmly invited to take part in Age Scotland’s third National Conference, on Wednesday 29th March 2017, Perth Concert Hall.

Our conference theme is Lifelong Learning. Learning, in all its forms, makes a great difference to the wellbeing and quality of life for people over the age of 50. Taking part in learning opens up new interests, puts people in control of their lives and helps us to remain physically and socially active. Age Scotland member groups actively take part in a wide range of informal learning, and many groups are providers of an array of learning opportunities for their members and older people in their local communities.

Our conference will provide an opportunity to find out what current research tells us about engaging in lifelong learning and to hear from members involved in learning and the difference it makes to their lives and communities. There will be a variety of stalls, taste and try activities and workshops and plenty of time to meet and have a blether with fellow Age Scotland member groups from across Scotland.

For the third year running our conference will be chaired by journalist and broadcaster, Pennie Taylor. We are also delighted to announce that our keynote speakers will include Dr Sabina Brennan and Professor Dawn Skelton.

Sabina Brennan is a Research Professor, in the School of Psychology, Trinity College Dublin. Her current research interests are in brain health, understanding differential decline in cognitive ageing, and what we can do to prevent decline.

Dawn Skelton is Professor in Ageing and Health in the Institute of Applied Health Research at Glasgow Caledonian University and is passionate about getting research into practice. Her recent research focuses on sedentary behaviour and reducing sedentary behaviour amongst older people.

The conference will culminate with the presentation of the 2017 Age Scotland Awards. Always an inspiring and uplifting event. A full programme and booking form will be sent to all members in January 2017. We look forward to seeing you in Perth.

Tel: 0333 323 2400 NationalConference2017@agescotland.org.uk.

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Let’s Get Moving!

n Tai Chi ing part i MSPs tak

The aim of Age Scotland’s Let’s Get Moving! campaign is to raise awareness about the impact that physical activity and exercise can have on the lives of older people.

We want to showcase some good examples of what people do to keep active – with a view to encouraging and motivating people to move more and sit less. We also would like to take the opportunity to invite people to take part in our Coastline Challenge.

The campaign was launched at the Scottish Parliament during the last week of September to coincide with International Older Peoples Day .

The team from Age Scotland chatted with 85 MSPs about the Let’s Get Moving campaign and some MSPs very sportingly took part in a Tai Chi taster session.

(L-R

Innes MacLeod: Information ng Officer, s: Traini e m a en J ) Gw

10 Call Age Scotland on 0333 323 2400

| Tai Chi at the Scottish Parliament

Why is it so important for older people to keep moving?

The research evidence highlights that for older adults, 30 minutes of moderate activity, or 15 minutes of vigorous activity (or a combination of both) five times a week can reduce the risk of developing and improve the symptoms of a raft of illnesses. These include heart disease, high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, dementia, certain types of cancer and stroke.

It can also improve bone density, joint and back pain, sleep and enhance your overall confidence and feeling of wellbeing. It is the single most important thing that older people can do to feel and function well and to maintain independent living!

We surveyed 300 people from Age Scotland member groups earlier this year and, although most people were aware of the physical activity guidance, only about half were actually meeting the recommendations.

What are some of the best ways for older people to get moving?

Brisk walking is definitely the most popular activity and is accessible for most people however anything that makes you feel a bit warmer and breathe a bit faster is good. It could be bowling, cycling,

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MSPs (N

icola Sturg

eon above ) tell us what

they do to keep active | The Coastline Challenge

gardening, exercise classes, housework, jogging, swimming, dancing, tai chi, tennis etc the list is endless really. People tell us they will stick with something they enjoy or have fun doing and often doing this with a companion or buddy can increase motivation and enjoyment.

We want everyone to feel they can contribute their steps/miles travelled. Many of us already enjoy some regular walking, jogging or cycling and you can donate this daily activity towards the Challenge (no matter how much or how little) and this will go towards our grand total of 6160 miles

Overall the health benefits of physical activity and exercise far outweigh the risks. If you have an injury, have recently undergone surgery or have any concerns about exercising ask your health care professional for advice.

How do I take part?

What is the Coastline Challenge?

The 6160 miles of Scotland’s coastline and borders is the setting for our first Age Scotland Challenge and we would love as many people and groups as possible to get involved. You or your group can select your favourite piece of coastline and then cover this distance in any way you choose - you can walk, jog, dance, swim, roll to name but a few. You can even do it virtually as we know not everyone will be able to travel to a section of the coastline.

So if you’re in a walking group that only does inland walks, you do a dance class, or any activity where a distance travelled can be measured with a pedometer or smartphone, then let us know how far you travelled, and we’ll add the distance to our Coastline Challenge total.

If you or group would like to join in with the Challenge, contact our fundraising team on fundraising@agescotland.org.uk / 0333 323 2400 and tell us what you would like to do. It is completely free to register however, if you would like to use this as an opportunity to fundraise for Age Scotland, please let us know and we can provide you with sponsor forms or set up a justgiving page.

Record your steps/miles using an activity tracker, pedometer or you can access a free activity app on smart phones. Log your distance with us regularly if you are giving us your daily activity or when you complete your coastline section.

If you use social media please take the opportunity to promote your miles travelled towards the Challenge and help us to spread the news about the Lets Get Moving! campaign far and wide.

www.facebook.com/agescotland 11

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las M Doug

ghtan acnau

Farewell Douglas After 20 years of dedicated service to older people and older peoples’ groups, Douglas Macnaughtan from the Community Development Team has retired from his post with Age Scotland. As one of a small band of Age Scotland staff who worked with our predecessor charities – Help the Aged and Age Concern Scotland - Douglas has provided continuity and great knowledge and experience to those of us who have more recently joined Age Scotland. We will miss his knowledge, expertise and oratory skills, his passion for older people, older people’s groups and their work, and his sense of humour.

For long periods Douglas was the sole community development worker with Help the Aged and over the years he travelled widely around the country establishing strong relationships with older peoples’ groups that continue to this day. Then, and now, many older people’s groups looked to Douglas and his colleagues for advice and support especially with regard to securing funding for their activities.

In recent months Douglas has been leading on our Get Set for Community Action project which you can read about on page 16. We wish him a long and very happy retirement, and more time to enjoy on the golf course practising his swing!

High blood pressure is a leading cause of stroke Around 15,000 strokes happen in Scotland every year and about a third of those are fatal.

However, up to 80% of those could be prevented by managing risk factors such as high blood pressure, the single, biggest, preventable risk factor for stroke.

High blood pressure can affect anyone of any age and often has no symptoms. The only way to find out if you have hypertension is to get your blood pressure tested. You don’t need a GP appointment to get yours tested – many community pharmacies offer blood pressure testing and many rotary clubs carry out blood pressure testing too.

The Stroke Association runs an awareness campaign called ‘Know Your Blood Pressure’ offering blood pressure checks to the public to help people understand the link between high blood pressure and stroke.

In Scotland, we mainly deliver blood pressure checks in the workplace. If you would like us to deliver a stroke awareness talk and do blood pressure checks in your workplace, call Jen on 0131 555 7253 or email: Jen.Farrelly@stroke.org.uk.

You may want to consider setting up your own event – we’ll provide you with guidance and information.

To find out more, visit www.stroke.org.uk/kybp.

12 Donate regularly to Age Scotland: info from 0333 323 2400

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Pauline S ilk,

Laura Sc ott and F ran Price o f the Pe

ebles Pension

ers Association

A good network Autumn is traditionally a busy time for Age Scotland meetings and events. Over the past few months consultation events and network meetings have been held in Ayrshire, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Grangemouth, Helensburgh, Inverclyde, Inverness, Moray and the Scottish Borders.

Peebles was the venue for the Scottish Borders members’ network meeting on 3rd November.

Laura Scott, Secretary of the Peebles Pensioners Association, welcomed members to the town and got the event off to a brilliant start with an inspiring presentation about her group. Laura is not a pensioner but six years ago she was spurred into action having read that the Peebles Old Age Pensioners Association, a long established group, faced imminent closure due to the lack of office bearers. She became Secretary to the Association and together with the hard working committee members, Fran, Enid and Pauline, set about renewing the group.

From 30 members with £100 in the funds in 2010 the newly named Peebles Pensioners has grown to be a busy, vibrant group that has had to move premises twice in order to keep pace with the

rising membership – currently 80 members. The programme comprises guest speakers, taster activities and outings. How to attract new members had been a talking point for members at previous Scottish Borders network meetings. Laura shared with us her own marketing tips which included gaining the support of the local newspapers, Peebles Life and the Peeblesshire News, who carried pre meeting articles and putting posters up in local shops and supermarkets to build interest.

Following Laura’s presentation members gamely took part in Strength and Balance Bingo, developed

by Age Scotland’s Allied Health Professionals, Jenny Ackland and Yolanda Strachan, to encourage us to build movement into more sedentary group activities. Beth Murphy, from SCVO’s One Digital Project, rounded off the day with an informative workshop highlighting digital technology and how digital skills can be of help to community groups. Thanks to all our members in the Scottish Borders for great participation in the meeting.

For more information about Age Scotland member groups in your area or how to join if you’re part of an older people’s group, call 0333 323 2400 or email members@agescotland.org.uk.

Download our factsheets at www.agescotland.org.uk/publications 13

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We are delighted to announce our new Age Scotland Helpline number – 0800 12 44 222 – where you can talk to us in confidence about a range of issues from advice on benefit entitlements, care rights, housing options or just phone for a friendly chat. Our helpline team can provide information and advice on a variety of topics, and are able to signpost or refer you to a specialist or local service. They can also send you some of our free publications.

Age Scotland’s Helpline provides information, friendship and advice through a confidential freephone number. This service is available for older people, their carers and families in Scotland. ing getting heatuldn’t m a I . u o y k Than eek and it wo w t x e n d e ll a inst hout you” it w d e n e p p a have h

formative. in d n a h g u o Very thor mation I was r fo in f o t lo Gave me a find” struggling to Contact our team of advisers for information and advice on a range of issues that affect older people in Scotland. Whether you want to know about your entitlement to benefits, how you pay for residential care, what care and support at home you may be entitled to, housing options or legal issues such as Power of Attorney we can help. We also have many factsheets and information guides to support the advice we provide.

And if you are looking for local groups and opportunities to meet people in your area we can help with that too.

did you know?

Age Scotland produces information leaflets about rights and issues for older people in Scotland. You can see a full list of our publications by visiting our website or call us on 0800 12 44 222 to find out more. We will send these out free or charge to you We look forward to hearing from you.

14 Find our factsheets: www.agescotland.org.uk/publications

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Geral dine D ay, Ag e

Scotlan d’s

helpline c

o-ordinat or | Geraldin e

and some of our su perb helpline volunteers

Meet the team We sat down with Geraldine Day who is Age Scotland’s helpline co-ordinator.

What brought you to Age Scotland?

I was managing the Citizens Advice Bureau in Argyll and Bute and one of my three daughters was expecting her first baby so I decided it was time to relocate. That was three years ago and I now have four grandchildren!

I was fortunate to be offered a job with Age Scotland, funded by Scottish Legal Aid Board, delivering a Money Advice project in Scottish Borders for older people with health problems and disabilities. Last October the opportunity to manage the helpline came up and I jumped at the chance to lead this brilliant team.

Tell me about your team I love my work and every day is different. It’s very rewarding; the right information and advice can empower people to take action on their own behalf or help decide on the best course of action for them.

We also have the opportunity to highlight issues with the Age Scotland policy team to help influence our campaigning on older people’s issues.

This work wouldn’t be possible without the support and dedication of the advisers and volunteers. It’s a fantastic team and everyone pulls together. The phones start ringing at 9:00 and some days there’s hardly time for coffee!

Tell us about how the helpline makes a difference.

There’s so many people we’ve helped over the years but a recent story springs to mind. A caller from central Scotland contacted the helpline as she was finding it difficult to manage some aspects of her personal care. She was advised of the eligibility criteria for Attendance Allowance as a benefit for people over 65 who have a physical or mental disability and of community care services which may be available through her local Social Work department.

The caller requested help to apply for Attendance Allowance, and was referred to the Department of Work and Pensions home visiting team. She phoned back to let us know that she had been awarded Attendance Allowance at the higher rate which totalled £4279.60 per year. We were then able to advise that an award of Attendance Allowance can increase other benefits she was receiving. Calling Age Scotland definitely changed her life.

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Get Involved

bers o 17 mem

ay Hall in London for the GSFCA celebration event, and enjo f Nan Mack ying an a

Get Set ! n o i t c A y t i n u For Comm 2016 was the year of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

To mark these events the British Olympic Association (BOA) and British Paralympic Association (BPA) supported by the Big Lottery Fund set up the Get Set for Community Action Project.

The aim of this UK wide project was to use the inspiration of the upcoming 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Rio to strengthen relationships between young people and their communities making them healthier, happier and more active places to live.

Here at Age Scotland we joined in the fun and for the last year Douglas Macnaughtan from the Community Development team has been working with young people in schools and older people’s groups to set up and support 5 intergenerational projects across Scotland.

16 Call Age Scotland on 0333 323 2400

The first challenge was to find appropriate groups of older and younger people, who were close enough geographically to make the projects viable.

Many schools (32) and member groups (12) had registered an interest in taking part but these were not spread evenly around the country. It was decided to focus on as many corners of Scotland as practical and not just the Central Belt. Finally, partnerships were set up in Campbeltown, Fort Augustus, Peebles, Barra and Glasgow.

As part of the programme, Age Awareness training sessions were run for all the younger

people taking part in the project or who expressed an interest in it. Douglas delivered these sessions with more than 400, 14 & 15 year-olds around the country! This training was vital in helping young people better understand the needs and abilities of older people. With this knowledge, they were better able to design projects that would benefit both sides.

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Throughout the summer, pupils from year S3 started meeting up with local older people in their groups. After initial “getting to know you� contact, real shared experiences followed.

In Peebles, the pupils from the High School attended sessions with the local 50+ Dance Group. Latin American themes were explored as well as traditional dance.

As with all the projects, it was important that the young people designed and ran the projects. This could include catering, filming, articles for the media, music quizzes and much more.

In Campbeltown, they held a table tennis tournament which was greatly enjoyed by all, while in Fort Augustus the small group of pupils from Kilchuimen Academy visited older people at the local residential home.

The biggest successes were on Barra and in Glasgow. The pupils of Castlebay School designed a quiz for the older people at the local Day Centre.

They also cooked and delivered a great lunch and finished up with a Botcha session! In a small community like Barra, many of the pupils already knew or were related to the older people. Douglas attended their special day and shared in the fun!

The prize winners were the young people from Newlands Junior College in Glasgow. Here, the team of 12 were introduced to the ladies of the Nan Mackay Hall in Pollokshields. This Centre supports older people from a wide range of ethnic backgrounds, including three ladies from Brazil!

They shared in various cultural activities. There was cooking from South America and contact with the Brazilian Consulate. They shared a great day out at a golf booth in Glasgow and produced art work.

As a result of their success, pupils and three service users from Nan Mackay Hall in Glasgow were invited to the celebration event in London on 14th September, to mark the end of the project. They all had splendid time and will long remember the experience!

The GSFCA programme certainly achieved its aim of bringing older and younger people together across the country. It is hoped that these new relationships will prosper in the years ahead.

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Bridge Markland in DIVE by Brian Hartley

DIVE

by Brian Hartley

inspire

Luminate 2016 Luminate: Scotland’s creative ageing festival took place nationwide in October, shining a light on our creativity as we age. Here we look back at some of the highlights from the fifth edition of the festival, which included theatre, music, dance, craft, film, literature and photography.

Luminate celebrates the work of older artists and performers and 2016 was no exception. PRIME, Scotland’s first ever semi-professional dance group for over 60s, teamed up with elder dance companies Quicksilver and Gracenotes to perform Carry on Dancing in Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Inverness. Actor Tim Barlow reflected on life at 80 in HIM, a collaborative piece by writer and theatremaker Sheila Hill. And Dundee Rep’s Beautiful People – a theatre company for over 55s– travelled to Sutherland to create and perform a new piece alongside local people.

There were also lots of opportunities for older people to take part in creative activities, learn new skills and showcase their talents. For Well Versed, poet/ performer Rachel McCrum and filmmaker Alastair

Cook worked with older people in Livingston to explore the crossover between poetry and film. They created some beautiful filmpoems, which you can view on the Luminate website. A pop-up exhibition of images taken by older photographers as part of the Luminate Photography Challenge also toured to venues across Scotland. You can still see some of the featured photos on Luminate’s online gallery.

Specially curated by Dundee Contemporary Arts, the Luminate film tour featured documentaries, fiction and classics, all exploring ageing and different relationships. Films such as The Grump, Mom & Me, A Wee Night In and 45 Years encouraged audiences nationwide to think about how ageing impacts on all of us. We hope that the older characters also inspired viewers with their knowledge, creativity and zest for life! As part of the festival programme, Luminate also presented films in association with both Scottish Queer International Film Festival and the Scottish Mental Health Arts & Film Festival.

As always, the Luminate programme included some fantastic age defying events, helping to challenge stereotypes and bring generations together.

Examples from 2016 include the Burl and Purl Club Nite, where a Knit & Natter group from Livingston traded their knitting needles for DJ decks. After several sessions with a professional DJ they showed off their new mixing skills.

18 Keep up to date on twitter: @agescotland

by Eoin Carey

Burl & Purl by Tio Makkonen

DIVE by Brian Hartley

inspire

by Alastair Kerr

For the second year running Luminate teamed up with Dive, Edinburgh’s finest purveyors of weirdo cabaret, to present an entertaining evening for people of all ages and persuasions. The show featured some special international guests, live performers from different generations, spoken word, music and more!

The 2016 Outreach programme featured two exciting projects specially commissioned by Luminate. Filmmaker Duncan Cowles worked at an Edinburgh care home to create Directed by North Merchiston, a series of five short films made in partnership with residents. Much further north in Shetland, artist Amy Gear collaborated with residents at Isleshavn Care Home on an immersive installation. Together, they worked in clay, spoken word and digital film to create The Weight of Knowledge, Measured in Clay.

This is just a small selection of the hundreds of creative events and activities that took place in October from the Scottish Borders all the way up to Shetland. Luminate wouldn’t be possible without the support of artists and communities nationwide, who help deliver such a varied and vibrant programme. The festival works closely with Age Scotland who were one of the founding partners.

To stay up to date with Luminate news, join the festival’s mailing list at www.luminatescotland.org.

You can also connect on Facebook (facebook.com/ LuminateScotland), Twitter (@LuminateScot) and Instagram (luminatescotland).

www.facebook.com/agescotland 19

Do you love later life?

Get Involved

We do. At Age Scotland we want to support and inspire everyone in Scotland to make the most of later life.

We support local groups and projects, which create places and activities that bring older people together. This, in turn, helps combat loneliness and isolation, and brings joy and a renewed sense of purpose into older people’s lives and support to others who need it most.

We create vital, free information on a range of issues such as community care and benefits, to help older people make informed choices in their lives.

We also provide opportunities for older people to challenge disadvantage and unfairness ensuring that their ideas for a better Scotland reach the ears of those who need to hear them.

If and when the time is right for you, and after you have taken care of your loved ones, please consider leaving a gift in your will to Age Scotland. Together we can help everyone love later life.

Find out more at www.agescotland.org.uk.

Age Scotland Causewayside House 160 Causewayside Edinburgh EH9 1PR Charity No: SC010100

However, almost half of our work would not be possible without the kindness of people remembering Age Scotland with gifts in their wills.

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Age Scotland, part of the Age Network, is an independent charity dedicated to improving the later lives of everyone on the ageing journey, within a charitable company limited by guarantee and registered in Scotland. Registration Number: 153343 Charity Number: SC010100. Registered Office: Causewayside House, 160 Causewayside, Edinburgh EH9 1PR.

Get Involved

Toni G iug

liano | Ton

i meeti ng com munity r esearcher s on Shapins ay

What is quality of life?

Age Scotland has teamed up with the University of Stirling to conduct research on quality of life in later years.

Over 30 community researchers across Scotland are working to find out what the essence of a good life is and what older people need to achieve and/ or maintain it. The project, which is funded by the Life Changes Trust, will also explore how quality of life differs for people with a long term condition, like dementia, as well as older people who become carers for a loved one.

Our researchers will use a number of methods to gather information, including focus groups across the country, from Shapinsay in Orkney to Galashiels in the Borders.

Key themes that have emerged from the research include personal independence, health and wellbeing, care, mobility and transport, relationships, technology, communities and services, and the role of older people in society.

In addition to the in-depth information provided by our pool of community researchers, we will broaden our findings through a questionnaire which will be distributed right across Scotland to involve and engage as many older people as possible. If you’d like to take part and receive a copy of the

questionnaire, email agoodlife@stir.ac.uk or call the Age Scotland Policy Team on 0333 323 2400.

The project findings will be summarised in a final written and video report, and a series of short reports and posters on key themes. We will also produce a toolkit to support similar projects in the future. We aim to use our findings to influence decision makers to improve policies that support older people as they age. The report will be published in autumn 2017.

What have our researchers been learning about what is quality of life?

“Befriending services are a lifeline – even if you have a close family, often you feel like you don’t want to impose on them. You want to be independent, and a befriender won’t pass judgement.”

“There should be incentives for volunteers to take on home care visits and spend some time chatting to people. The home visits you get only last 15 minutes – it’s just not enough. You want to get to know a person and have a chat with them. With the current system they just don’t have enough time to do that.”

“Many people who once had a social status during their working life tend to lose it once they reach a certain age. But older people still have a lot to contribute to society.”

21

Get Involved

Fundraising Team Update

Big Knit

Big Knit The Innocent Smoothie Big Knit is back! Introducing the Biggest Big Knit EVER – you now have double the amount of time to get involved. From now until Summer 2017, you can participate by knitting (or crocheting) little bobble hats so that they can be paired up with Innocent Smoothie bottles to be sold in shops across the country next November. For every be-hatted smoothie sold, Age Scotland get 25p – and if you submit hats as part of an Age Scotland member group, your group will get 15p of it!

We have been busy counting, sorting and loving all the wee hats that have come in. Our target this year is to have 100,000 little hats. At the time of writing, we have 5619 ready to be sent to Innocent!

If you have been knitting little hats and are ready to send them in, please do so to: The Big Knit, Age Scotland, 160 Causewayside, Edinburgh EH9 1PR. Remember to pop your details into every package you send in so that we know who to thank. We welcome and appreciate every little hat!

If you would like to take part or have a question, please get in touch. You can email us at BigKnit@ agescotland.org.uk or call 0333 323 2400.

Happy knitting!

Running events Autumn brings to mind cooler days, brightly coloured trees, longer nights and evenings watching Strictly.

It’s also the perfect time of year to get moving!

Throughout September, October and November, Age Scotland supporters were participating in running events to raise money and challenge themselves.

Here are a few of the events that went on:

Loch Ness Marathon On 25th September, two Age Scotland supporters ran the Loch Ness Marathon: Andrew and Angela. In a previous issue of Advantage, we introduced you to Angela, so now please meet Andrew.

Andrew Holmes is no stranger to running events, having completed a few in his time. He has ran the London Marathon, Edinburgh Marathon (three times) and, more recently, the Aviemore Triathlon.

Then, in September and in support of Age Scotland, Andrew ran the Loch Ness Marathon. Despite having a cold, he managed it in an incredible 5 hours 25 minutes and inspired us all in the process.

“On the morning of the event it was only the thought of running for Age Scotland that got me out of bed at 5am in time to drive to Inverness for the competitors’ bus to the start.”

22 Check out www.youtube.com/user/AgeScotland

Get Involved

Laura an d Stephan

ie at the G reggs Hijack | Fun Run | Andrew at the Loch Ness Marathon

Andrew raised £713.97 (plus Gift Aid), a significant portion being from his own contribution. Thank you, Andrew, for your kindness and determination.

of tasks which gave us a great insight into what is involved in working in a charity shop. The staff were very patient with us and made us feel very welcome.”

Big Fun Run

Of course, we made it a competition between East and West to see who could raise the most from their donations - Edinburgh were the champions of the day!

The Big Fun Run was held in Edinburgh and Glasgow in October. Kieran Healy and his family ran around Bellahouston Park, while our very own Rebecca Dickson completed her 5km around Holyrood Park.

As the title suggests, the run is fun: untimed and participants are free (encouraged) to hop, skip and jump. Rebecca was particularly lucky in Edinburgh as it was a beautiful day and the perfect way to reach her goals while enjoying the view from Arthur’s Seat.

Well done to all Fun-runners!

If you would like to support Age Scotland by participating in a sporting event, get in touch! In 2017, we will be getting involved in everything from the Edinburgh Marathon Festival (27th-28th May) to the Men’s 10k in Glasgow (18th June).

Gangsta Granny We would like to say a heartfelt “thank you” to Birmingham Stage Company and both Edinburgh and Glasgow King’s Theatres for supporting Age Scotland during performances of Gangsta Granny. The show, based on the book by David Walliams, is a family favourite to be enjoyed by children and their grandparents alike. Staff from both theatres carried out collections following each of the 17 shows - In total, they collected a staggering £5354.33! This is an incredible amount and would not have happened if it were not for the cast and crew behind Gangsta Granny and the audiences who kindly donated.

Greggs Hijack In October, five staff members from Greggs participated in a Shop Hijack where they volunteered for the day and brought along bags and bags of donations. They took over our Edinburgh and Glasgow shops.

Laura from Greggs said “We had a great time. It was great that we were able to get involved in a variety

For information on any of these events or ways to get involved contact the fundraising team:

tel: 0333 323 2400 email: fundraising@agescotland.org.uk

www.facebook.com/agescotland 23

Get Involved

A project

Iain McVicar, Men’s Sheds Development Officer for the West of Scotland has been out and about supporting new and existing sheds.

The Dunoon Shed is a remarkable venture that has come a long way in a very short space of time and done wonders with its venue. With help from a local construction firm and local people, they’ve transformed a former dairy into something very desirable to shedders anywhere. The former wasteland, at the front of the shed, is now home to picnic benches and an open space for local people to sit. “It’s so nice when people walk past and thank us for brightening up the place”, said shedder Sam. With help from Argyll and Bute TSI, the Shed is operating on the belief that they should try to run sustainably and cover their costs through their activities. Hannah, who helps at the shed, said “we’ve bought and sold vehicles, are looking to rent out spare space to a social enterprise and are working on other means to bring money in”.

Dunoon has also just won a prestigious award, beating six other finalists to a £3000 prize. Each group was subject of a presentation by some of the Grammar School Pupils. This involved pupils visiting the projects, meeting service users and really understanding what the organisations were about. The judges included Michael Russell MSP and Brendan O’Hara MP.

hed | Fort William Shed receive Age Sco at the Dunoon s tland fundin g

To present Age Scotland funding to the Fort William, I thought it might be useful to take some shedders from the new sheds in Tarbert and Campbeltown with me and once again the Fort William guys were fantastic hosts. “Everything is a project”, said shedder David (as I commented on various materials, motorbikes and machinery taking up residence in the Shed), “you get a laugh here” and he’s right on both counts!

A visit to the Hamilton shed is always worthwhile and the guys were happy to show me how it had expanded, and how they had used the funding received from Age Scotland. Hamilton Football Club who are hosting the shed at their stadium, provide a safe venue where guys can come and work.

Hamilton, together with Fort William, really look to provide a fully community-enabling experience and two shedders in particular were only too pleased to tell me their stories. Both Arthur and Eddy had received significant head injuries and had found a setting within the Hamilton Shed to “get back out there”. The guys were busy with their respective wood-working projects, but simply couldn’t hide how thankful they were that the shed existed.

Providing a place to go, socialise, be accepted and be yourself.are in very different neighbourhoods, they are more alike than dissimilar, they share the same DNA and fill the same gap in the community.

Ian McVicar: Ian.McVicar@agescotland.org.uk 07808 024 801 / 01586 820 087

24 News and views: www.agescotland.wordpress.com

Get Involved

Member s of the

Denny & Bonnybri dge Shed | Tim with members of the Buckhaven Shed

Tim Green, Men’s Shed Development Officer for the East of Scotland gives us a round-up of the movement so far in his patch.

Men’s sheds are thriving in the East of Scotland. There are new sheds in various stages of development in: Aberchirder, Aberfeldy, Aboyne, Alford, Arbroath, Blairgowrie, Buckhaven, Coldstream, Denny & Bonnybridge, Dunbar, Ferryhill, Forth Valley, Glenrothes, Huntly, Inverbervie, Kelso, Merkinch, Musselburgh, Nairn, Oakley, Orkney, Peterhead, Stanley, Slammanan, St Andrews, Stonehaven, Strathpeffer and Turriff.

Men’s sheds are operating in sheds, garages, shipping containers, modular buildings, community centres, village halls and industrial units. Some are ambitious restoration projects of empty library, railway station, factory, school and even public convenience buildings!

There is ever growing demand for men’s sheds but finding affordable and suitable premises remains the most significant challenge for the movement.

Around a cuppa and a blether typical activities include: equipment and tool repair and restoration, light mechanical and electrical engineering, painting, laser etching, wood carving, wood turning, 3d printing, carpentry and joinery, gardening, cookery, computing, health and wellbeing talks, musical instrument making, furniture making and restoration, model making, blacksmithing, boat building, and leisure pursuits like reading, archery, pool, photography, darts, cards, archery and boccia.

The more established sheds, having created a space, in their own image on their own terms, are now looking at how they can become more inclusive and encourage the wider community to benefit from their considerable skills, knowledge and facilities.

Thus men’s sheds are building strong partnerships with a range of other community groups like third sector interfaces, older people’s forums, food banks, schools and nurseries, housing associations, care homes knitting groups environmental sustainability projects and veterans’ organisations.

We know anecdotally that men’s sheds make a big difference to the men who attend them. Age Scotland are in the process collecting evidence of on the impact men’s sheds have on the health and wellbeing of shedders and their local communities.

We will be sharing, widely, the results of this research through events to be in May 2017.

The best way to understand what men’s sheds do is to visit one. You can do this virtually for example the Carse of Gowrie Men’s Shed video can be viewed at https://youtu.be/Z7L8aI8VWrI. Or, if you prefer the real thing find your local Men’s Shed by contacting Tim or Ian or using the find-a-shed page of the Scottish Men’s Sheds Association website http://scottishmsa.org.uk/find-a-shed/.

Tim Green: Tim.Green@agescotland.org.uk 07718 579 291 / 01383 882 151

25

going local

ston Archie

ut their new up trying o BALL Gro

equipment purchased with an Age Scotland grant

News from around Scotland This year Age Scotland’s Community Grants Programme has focussed on supporting our member groups to run projects or hold activities specifically designed to target isolation and loneliness. In this issue we feature some of the 18 member groups which were awarded Age Scotland grant funding in summer 2016.

Archiestown BALL Group In the heart of Speyside malt whisky country, Archiestown is one of several small rural communities with minimal public transport service. With the support of Moray Older Peoples Development Team (MOPDT), a BALL (Be Active Life Long) group was set up, bringing together a small group of over 60’s from the adjacent communities who shared a similar desire to meet and enjoy each others company.

The group now creates a regular weekly programme addressing physical needs for light exercising which may take the form of walking, stretching, dancing or moderately active games. This is followed by an obligatory social cup of tea to discuss anything from the future programme to “the woes of the world” prior to listening to an engaging talk on diverse subjects from Arabian Horses to How to find oil.

Thanks to a grant from Age Scotland to combat Isolation and Loneliness, the group have been able to purchase their own equipment for several of their activities, rather than borrowing items. This means there is never a gap in the weekly programme.

Although from neighbouring communities, the members of the group who were relative strangers to each other on joining, are now close friends and collectively have worked with the local authorities to make maximum use of a new twice weekly service bus, have visited the regional museum in Elgin, helped organise a fund-raising “Soup and Sweet” and are planning a Competitive Games day to help integrate all ages within the respective communities, using the games and equipment bought with the support of Age Scotland.

The aim is to sustain an entertaining programme which offers something for everyone and with the certainty of a varied weekly programme, the group is now able to reach out to those in the community who have so far been reluctant or unable to engage.

Boom Boxes Talk Lochaber received a grant from Age Scotland for 15 “boom boxes”. These colourful gadgets will enhance the experience of Talk Lochaber members listening to their free weekly recording of local news from a range of local newspapers. The news is produced on a memory stick which the boom box plays.

The Talking Newspaper is sent free of charge to people who for whatever reason, cannot read print. Currently the sticks go to around 45 people.

A team of 30 volunteers provide the service. These are divided into Editors, Technicians, Readers and Administration personnel.

26 For news and views visit www.agescotland.wordpress.com

going local

“Brot hers a re

doing it for t hemse lves!” | Patriz ia and

Heather fr om Talk Lochab er

Pictured top right are Patrizia and Heather, two of the long term volunteers with Talk Lochaber, with one of the snazzy new boom boxes. They reported that members who have already received their new boom box are very pleased at its ease of use and improved performance.

“Brothers are doing for themselves!”

Doesn’t quite have the same ring to it but it is wonderful to see that there are an increasing number of men who are coming together to ensure their own needs and interests are met by creating groups and developing activities which are tailored specifically to them.

Two such groups recently accessed the Age Scotland grants to help support their development.

In South Lanarkshire the Chapleton Bowling Club piloted a new men’s group throughout the summer months. The Thursday Get Together, came about when the men decided they needed more than just a game of bowls to hold their interest. Hence, the new social group, which saw 15 men come together to hear speakers, learn about various topics and to partake of the obligatory tea and cake while socialising. It has been such a success the group are hoping to keep it going throughout the year. In Renfrewshire, ROAR - Connections for Life were also awarded funds to support their men’s group which meets every Friday to hear speakers, enjoy films and activities and have a monthly outing.

with the new Boom Boxes

Outreach Activities in Mid Galloway The Riverside Day Centre provides a range of services for older people living in Mid Galloway. From a freshly cooked 2 course meal to weekly computer classes and New Age Kurling, there is something for everyone. The group applied to Age Scotland for funds to pilot an outreach service to reach the most isolated of people within a very rural locality.

So far the Centre has run two successful outreach activities. 20 people attended each event enjoying a freshly cooked lunch followed by games of Bingo and New Age Kurling. The days provided the opportunity for people to meet old friends, make new ones and feel less isolated.

The outreach activities will run until February with activities planned for Whithorn in January and Port William in February. If you would like more information on the outreach activities please contact Riverside Day Centre on 01671 402010.

More than 90 member groups have applied for an Age Scotland Tackling Loneliness and Isolation Grant in our second call for applications. We will report further on members’ activities supported through the grants programme in forthcoming issues.

Email: members@agescotland.org.uk Tel: 0333 323 2400

27

Clubs

ting w mee a n Dia

co ith the S

Out and about with our Regional Ambassador Diana Findlay in the Scottish Borders

ttish Older People’s Assembly

In my role as Regional Ambassador for the Borders I’m kept busy with a variety of interesting events and activities but best of all, I get to meet lots of brilliant people. Recently I was invited to attend International Day in Hawick - great fun and lots of stands with different foods on offer and a Polish theatrical company who performed a traditional play in costume.

Age Scotland had stand on Silver Sunday (2nd October), again in Hawick, where more than 100 Older People came along for a super Afternoon Tea and entertainment - a lovely afternoon. On 11th October I took an Age Scotland stand at the LGBT Coming Out event in Galashiels.

At Home Energy and Changeworks events, I was asked to talk about our local Seniors Networking Forum, Age Scotland and also Scottish Older Peoples Assembly. I acquired lots of information from these events about energy-saving projects which can help both Older People and those who are vulnerable, which has now been passed on.

There was a great turn out at Midlothian Older Peoples Assembly Autumn meeting in Dalkeith and after lunch the main topic was The GP service in Midlothian. The Speaker was a GP in private practice who holds the post of Clinical Director for Midlothian - quite enlightening and it’s good to hear what’s happening in other areas and compare notes.

Our Local Council is leading a project called Selkirk Streetscape to improve the centre of the town - I was asked to participate to give an older person’s perspective on the plans. So far I have attend about six meetings so hopefully changes to look forward to!

With over 6,500 Diabetics in our region, I’m currently involved in organising a Diabetes Support group as there appears to be a need. Peer support might helpful, particularly when first diagnosed and perhaps living alone as a high percentage of older people are. We will of course be working with Diabetes Scotland and our local Ability Borders organisation, which assists disabled and people with long-term conditions.

I chair Seniors Networking Forum, an Age Scotland group member, which consists of representatives of older peoples’ groups and those who work in Statutory and Third Sector organisations which support older people. Our September meeting was very well attended so it also gives the opportunity for us to share information which is important. The next meeting is in Coldstream in early November.

If you’re interested in learning more about our Regional Ambassadors or would like to be one, call Elizabeth Bryan on 0333 323 2400 or email members@agescotland.org.uk.

28 Join us on www.facebook.com/agescotland

Clubs’ Ambassadors Corner

Caring for your family – three easy steps for older people.

David Borrowman It never ceases to amaze me that so few of us plan ahead for adverse family events. It is difficult to get statistics but we think over 50 % of adults haven’t made wills, probably about 95% haven’t done a power of attorney and possibly as few as 1% have completed an advance directive or “living will” stating what medical treatment they would wish or not wish in the last stages of a terminal illness.

When death or serious illness strikes a family this failure to prepare causes significant extra distress and expense as well as sometimes creating legal problems. All of this could be avoided by preparing three straightforward legal documents.

1. A Power of Attorney: Very simply appointing someone to be your attorney ensures that someone has legal authority to look after your affairs if you become unable to do so yourself. Without a power of attorney a guardian would have to be appointed in a court action. This really should be avoided at all costs because of the stress and expense involved – the last thing any family needs when a family member has been struck down by serious illness.

2. A Will: Making a will ensures your property goes where you want it to go – not where the state says – which might not be what many people want.

On top of that a well written will clearly stating the wishes of the deceased, generally stops the family arguments which can sometimes arise after a death.

3. An Advance Directive: This is a written instruction to your doctors and carers as to how you want to be treated in the last stages of an illness – when you are unable to communicate. Spelling out your wishes to your family in advance like this gives them the confidence to make “end of life” medical decisions in accordance with your wishes. This spares family members the worry and possible guilt of perhaps feeling they had made a decision you might not have wanted.

It is not difficult or expensive to get these documents in place - all three can be done in two visits to a solicitor. And perhaps the best news is that about 40% of Scottish pensioners qualify for “Legal Advice and Assistance”. This means they can get these documents completed either free or at a subsidised cost.

So please don’t put off decisions – get these basic family care documents in place. You will feel very content when you‘ve done it – knowing you have done everything you can to care for those closest to you.

David Borrowman is Senior Partner of the Caesar and Howie Law Group, who are founder members of Solicitors for Older People Scotland. www.solicitorsforolderpeoplescotland.co.uk/.

Call Age Scotland on 0333 323 2400 29

Over 40,000 older people in Scotland will spend Christmas day alone We all want to laugh, love and be needed, whatever our age. But it is especially true at Christmas - a time when the company and support of friends and family seems to mean even more and loneliness is felt more deeply.

We all feel lonely from time to time, but, older people are more susceptible to feeling lonely permanently because of the challenges later life may bring. Events outwith our control such as bereavement, family moving away or health issues can isolate us - with one in ten older people saying they feel lonely most or all of the time - that’s 100,000 older people across Scotland.

45% of over 75s say the TV or a pet is their main form of company

We are sure that you agree that no one should have no one - not at Christmas, not ever.

At Age Scotland we’re working as hard as we can all year round to help older people face the different challenges that growing older brings. And with your help we can work to make sure that everyone has contact and the support that they need.

Hugs

How can you help?

If you are able to, please consider making a donation to Age Scotland. By doing this you are helping ensure that a vulnerable older person will get the helping hand they need, when they may have nowhere else to turn.

How to make a donation to Age Scotland • Use the enclosed donation form and freepost envelope to make a single donation or become a regular donor • Visit www.agescotland.org.uk to make a secure online card donation • Text HUGS16 £5 to 70070 to donate £5 by mobile phone • Phone 0333 323 2400 to make a card donation

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A regular donation is one of the most effective ways of giving to Age Scotland. It helps us plan our work in advance and help older people more efficiently. Just complete and return this Direct Debit form. Thank you.

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Gift Aid Declaration for past, present & future donations Are you a UK Tax Payer? If so, you could boost your donation by 25p of Gift Aid for every £1 you donate. Gift Aid is reclaimed by Age Scotland from the tax you pay for the current tax year and your address is needed to identify you as a current UK taxpayer.

Yes, I want to Gift Aid the above donation and any donations I make in the future or have made in the past 4 years to Age Scotland. I am a UK taxpayer and understand that if I pay less Income Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax than the amount of Gift Aid claimed on all my donations in that tax year it is my responsibility to pay any difference. Please notify Age Scotland if you: want to cancel this declaration / change your name or home address / no longer pay sufficient tax on your income and/or capital gains.

If you pay Income Tax at the higher rate and want to receive the additional tax relief due to you, you must include all your Gift Aid donations on your Self-Assesssment or ask HM Revenue and Customs to adjust your tax code.

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Age Scotland, Reg Charity No. SC010100 t: 0333 323 2400 e: fundraising@agescotland.org.uk

Looking after your details We would like to stay in touch – but only if you do too.

We will contact you to thank you for any donations that you make to Age Scotland. And we would like to stay in touch to let you know more about our fundraising appeals and how your support for our vital work helps older people. We would like to reassure you that under no circumstances will we share or sell your details and we promise to keep your details safe and secure, in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998.

Please mark the box below if you would like to hear from us again:

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If you change your mind at any time you can phone us on 0333 323 2400, contact us by email at fundraising@agescotland.org.uk or write to us at: Age Scotland, Causewayside House, 160 Causewayside, Edinburgh, EH9 1PR.

Please return to...

Freepost RSBS-KEHC-GBBC, Age Scotland, 160 Causewayside, EDINBURGH EH9 1PR Age Scotland, part of the Age Network, is an independent charity dedicated to improving the later lives of everyone on the ageing journey, within a charitable company limited by guarantee and registered in Scotland. Registration Number: 153343. Charity Number SC010100. Registered Office: Causewayside House, 160 Causewayside, Edinburgh EH9 1PR.