Scotland has a strong tradition of community food initiatives involving older people both as volunteers and customers. Many are located in low-income communities where access to affordable, healthy food can be a major issue in ensuring a long and healthy life. Food and eating with others (in lunch clubs, for example) also helps reduce social isolation.
Perth and Kinross Healthy Communities Collaborative works with older people from specific communities, and empowers them to improve health and quality of life for themselves and their peers. Their work in Birnam and Dunkeld has developed around a focus on eating well and a healthy diet.
Read ‘Perth and Kinross Healthy Communities – older people living well’ here
This case study is kept here for historical record. The project was a centre for frail older people from the minority ethnic community where their cultural and religious needs are recognised. The lunch club provided the opportunity for members to enjoy a healthy meal in the company of friends.
Read ‘The Dixon Community – minority ethnic lunch club for older people’ here
Meal Makers – sharing home-cooked food with older people
Run by the Food Train, Meal Makers is a community food sharing project which connects people who love cooking and want to be active in their community with older neighbours who would like home cooked food delivered to them every now and then.
Read ‘Meal Makers – sharing home-cooked food with older people’ here