The Silence of Old Age

Across Scotland, people are living longer - but too many older people are experiencing loneliness, struggling with rising costs and feel disconnected from the world around them.

For many, growing older can mean going days without speaking to anyone. Having fewer conversations as services move online. Having decisions being made for you, not with you. As we age, we can begin to feel invisible, unseen and unheard when our needs matter most.

The silence of old age.

But it doesn’t need to be this way. At Age Scotland, our helpline, friendship service, support for local groups and national campaigning all work together to create a Scotland where older people have purpose, a place to belong and a voice.

We can’t do this alone. By leaving a gift in your Will, your legacy can help end the silence of old age.

Legacies are vital to Age Scotland and no matter the size of the gift, they help ensure that long after today, older people across Scotland will have someone to turn to. Someone who listens. Someone who stands by them. A voice.

If you have any questions or would like more information about leaving a gift in your Will, our Legacy Lead, Richenda Thomson would love to hear from you by email at legacies@agesotland.org.uk or call 0333 323 2400.

What older people told us

We spoke to older people across Scotland to gather their views on ageing. They talked about some of the challenges they faced due to retirement, bereavement and ill health.  Many discussed feeling invisible, forgotten, and unheard, like they were losing their place in the world – the silence of old age.

Sheila, Bill, Moira and Ron are all members of the West Lothian 50+ Network supported by Age Scotland. You may recognise them as they're also the stars of 'The Silence of Old Age' film, which you can watch further up the page. 

A gift in your Will to Age Scotland will help older people find their voice again and help end the silence of old age.