Behind the scenes of the 'Silence of Old Age' film

You may have seen our new short film, the ‘Silence of Old Age’. We wanted to share some insights into how the campaign came together behind the scenes.

Our journey began by listening to older people aged from their late 50s through to their 80s. We wanted to understand their experiences of later life, including some of the challenges they faced. What was the reality of ageing for some people in Scotland? 

They spoke to us openly about the everyday experiences that can shape their later years. One common challenge so many spoke of was a growing sense of invisibility. That feeling of losing your place in society, of being alone after the loss of a partner, retirement, family moving away, and days becoming quieter.

When someone feels unseen and unheard, that silence can take hold. These insights sit at the heart of our campaign. 

To tell these real stories, the people you see in our film are also real and not actors. Ron, Sheila, Moira, and Bill [pictured below from left to right] welcomed us and the cameras into their home and shared their lived experiences of growing older. Ron and Moira also voice the film [pictured at the top of the page].

You can watch our film again here on YouTube.

The people featured in the film are members of the West Lothian 50+ Network, a member‑led group that brings people over 50 together across West Lothian, supporting them to stay active, connected, and involved through a wide range of social, educational, and recreational activities that help reduce loneliness and social isolation. 

None of this would be possible without the kindness of people who choose to leave a gift to Age Scotland in their Will. Legacies are crucial to our work and fund 1 in every 2 friendship calls.

If you'd like to find out more about our 'Silence of Old Age' campaign or how you can leave Age Scotland a Gift in your Will, click below for more information. Together, let's end the silence of old age.

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