NEW FOR OLD
160 people prove age is no barrier
Older people from Perth and Kinross have been able to try something new over the past year.
More than 160 people have attended the “First Time for Everything” programme over the last 12 months.
The programme is run by the Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) with activities held in St Matthew’s Church Hall.
First Time for Everything aims to give older people new opportunities for free in their community, after research found staying active and social in older age is highly beneficial.
The RVS also found 67 per cent of older people in Scotland were keen to try something new, but 32 per cent said they were “disappointed” at the lack of activities for older people where they lived.
Barbara MacPhee, service manager for Perth RVS said: “The First Time for Everything events have been a real hit with older people living locally and we’ve had some great feedback.
“Keeping active and social is hugely important to our wellbeing as we age, and we’re delighted so many new members have been coming along to try something new.”
Ms MacPhee also thanked Prudential who have been helping to fund the ground-breaking programme.
She continued: “We’re extremely grateful to Prudential for continuing its generous support for the programme and are already planning some great new activities for 2018.
“As well as offering interesting social activities to try, we also offer something to eat and drink, good company and information about local services available to older people.
“Visitors to St Matthew’s Church Hall can always be sure of a warm welcome from our staff and wonderful volunteers.”
Events are held at the Tay Street church each month, with activities ranging from Tai Chi to arts and crafts.
Organisers already have magic and dancing lined up for their 2018 programme.
One of those who has benefitted from the programme is Margaret Rose from Perth. She said: “The activities that we do we can relate to, they are enjoyable and something draws me Ladies enjoying one of the group’s strawberry teas last year back for more.
“There’s always something different and Tai Chi and chair-based exercises help me keep mobile. We had a musical afternoon recently celebrating Rabbie Burns which was great.
“Transport is provided which makes it possible for me to attend.”
Eleanor Turner, head of corporate responsibility at Prudential, added: “The First Time for Everything programme has had a significant impact in the communities where it’s already run.
“We want to create experiences that enhance the lives of older people and at the same time help address the epidemic of loneliness in the UK, particularly amongst the elderly. We’re therefore delighted to be supporting RVS for a second year.
“We hope that more older people will enjoy trying First Time for Everything activities at St Matthew’s Church Hall in 2018.”
Those interested in taking part in the activities or interested in volunteering with RVS, can contact them on taysidehub@ royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk or call 01738 633975.