Experience of mental wellbeing in later life is influenced by many factors.
- personal beliefs and attitudes
- culture and ethnicity
- class
- geographical location
- marital or family status
- physical and mental health
- financial security
- access to support and services
In recognition of the importance of this topic and as part of the Scottish Executive’s National Programme to Improve Mental Health and Wellbeing there is a proposal to develop a network of Health in Later Life interest groups. This work is being co-ordinated in the North of Scotland by Age Concern Scotland from the Inverness office. The North of Scotland is geographically defined as the Health Board areas of Grampian, Highland, Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles. The purpose of the network is to enableolder people and those working with them to:
- develop ideas and knowledge about achieving health and wellbeing as we age
- inform and influence policy development at local and national level
The aim of the Health in Later Life Regional Interest Groups will be to focus on a holistic approach to health and wellbeing, to support people in their communities and improve social inclusion and health.
Age Concern Scotland’s Highland office will co-ordinate local activities working in partnership with older people, voluntary and statutory agencies. There is a budget to support this work coming from NHS Health Scotland.