Going the extra mile for older people this new year

Is your New Year’s resolution to fundraise for a cause close to your heart?

We catch up with inspiring fundraisers who are taking on new challenges in 2026 to raise vital funds for older people across Scotland and help make a real difference to people’s lives.

Firstly, we chat to Eva and her husband, Ryan, who are doing dry January in memory of their grandparents.

Why are you fundraising for Age Scotland?

We both believe the work you guys do is absolutely essential for the elderly community. My nana became extremely lonely after the loss of my papa, and I really wish we knew about Age Scotland before she recently passed away as she would have really benefited from your services. So, we are raising money to help raise awareness of the different services you offer to help older people.

What is your most cherished memory of your grandparents?

My most cherished memory of my grandparents was when I had sleepovers at their house, and we would play dominos together. My papa and I used to pretend we were spies and would have secret meetings to plan our missions while my Nana made our dinner. Ryan’s most cherished memory would be when his grandad taught him how to play football at the park across from their house. His grandma was also the one making the dinner and his favourite was her mince and tatties.

My husband Ryan was mainly brought up by his grandparents — they put a lot of time and effort into making him the man he is today. I know the time he spent with them was so sacred and he would do anything to be able to spend some time with them again. I spent a lot of time with my grandparents, and I was so lucky to have had my nana living in the flat down below me for the short time she was there. It allowed our relationship to mature in a lot of ways and allowed us to spend more time together — I learnt so much about her and her life in the extra time we got together and I’m glad she felt less lonely when she moved closer to us.

Tell us about your fundraising challenge this January?

We are doing dry January to raise money for older people. In Scotland there is a big drinking culture so 9 out of 10 times if you are planning on meeting friends etc it’s in the pub. Usually there’s a lot of celebrations in January so it will put our self-restraint to the test and help others at the same time!

We now put Andy in the hot seat who is taking part in this year’s London Marathon in April.

Why are your fundraising for Age Scotland?

Age Scotland is an amazing charity close to my heart and not enough is done to support elderly people and their families through some of the hardest of times.

Have you done any other fundraising challenges for us?

Yes, in the spring time I did the Kelpies Experience with some colleagues from work (Sky) and this was a fantastic experience that also enabled us to raise money for Age Scotland.

What do you love most about running?

I love just being able to get outdoors and the time and space. It's also nice to get away from screens that seem to be part of our lives now!

What advice would you give others thinking of running the marathon or fundraising?

I’d say just get out and do it! Running is a sport where you can just get a pair of trainers, and you can build up from a gentle walk through a jog to a full run – anyone can do it regardless of age or starting fitness.

Playlist of choice for marathon training/running?

For training, nothing can beat an audio book or a podcast. I've worked my way through everything from Poirot to Reacher to No Such Thing as a Fish, but on race day nothing can beat a classic playlist — The Pretender from the Foo Fighters is a definite for the start list as the beat builds! 

How would you like the money you raise to help older people in Scotland?

I think I would like to see money go to the elderly and their relatives/people who support them. 

My mum is in a specialised dementia unit and it’s my dad who still lives in the family home that is the one who ironically needs more support.  I would like the money spent in supporting elderly couples who then have to live separate lives in some shape of form.