Ageing well

A study conducted by older people has provided insight into what people want and need to make them happy as they age.

As part of the project, involving the University of Stirling and Age Scotland, community researchers aged between 50 and 84 carried out their own research and analysis of Scotland’s older people and what they thought constituted a good quality of life.

Led by the university’s Faculty of Social Sciences, the project had older people playing a central role themselves.

Thirty community researchers were recruited from five areas across the country, including Stirling.

They received training to collect data, carry out analysis and establish findings.

The community researchers made key findings across a range of topic areas including communities, health and well-being, services and facilities, learning and education and hobbies, pastimes and activities.

The data has already been used to inform Scottish Government policy and also formed part of Age Scotland’s local election manifesto.

The findings will be presented at a Scottish Parliament reception, hosted by Bruce Crawford MSP, tonight (Wednesday).

Findings also included contact with people of different age groups, social connections, technology and having enough money to live comfortably.

Independence, freedom and choice, good public transport and housing were also among the areas assessed.

Stirling MSP Bruce Crawford said: “This work will help to inform and influence future policy decisions to ensure people in their later years continue to enjoy a good quality of life.

“It is great to see that older people themselves were empowered to be involved in this research and I congratulate all of those involved.”

The study ‘A Good Life in Later Years’ was funded with a grant of £97,000 from the Life Changes Trust.