Older people with disabilities can feel “useless and worthless” and need more and better coordinated support to keep them active and connected in later life, according to a campaigner.
By Stephen Naysmith, Social Affairs Correspondent for The Herald
Tressa Burke, chief executive of the Glasgow Disability Alliance, said more honest discussions are needed about the integration of health and social services, because many older people are struggling to access the help they need.
The biggest priority for older disabled people is the chance to participate in society, including having a social life, she said. But many are missing out on that, she said.
“Despite research telling us that social isolation increases the risk of early death, the importance of combating loneliness is often overlooked,” Ms Burke said.
“Older people tell us they value social participation, having a sense of meaning or a sense of purpose in their lives and something to get up for in the morning. But too often they tell us they simply aren’t asked their opinion, listened to, or treated with respect.”
