Enabling people at risk of or living with frailty to Age Well in the Western Isles

Strong, close-knit communities – often described as a “Rosetta effect” – are a defining strength, helping people feel known, supported, and valued. Community-led organisations such as LTCH, Neuro Hebrides, Alzheimer Scotland, Crossroads Lewis, and Tolsta Café play a critical role in reducing loneliness through regular, simple contact, both face-to-face and digital. However, communication gaps persist between statutory and third-sector services, with inconsistent follow-up and limited coordination. Clearer signposting, improved continuity (e.g. a shared “passport” system), and better engagement with more remote islands are needed.

Transport remains one of the most significant barriers to ageing well. Unreliable ferries and flights, long distances, high costs, and increasing climate-related disruption limit access to healthcare, social activities, and support. Home-based care and respite services are highly valued as they reduce the need for travel and support people to remain at home. Mobile or travelling services, such as therapy buses, were identified as a promising solution, alongside improved access to personal assistants.

Social isolation disproportionately affects people living alone or without family support. Local groups and in-home visits provide essential social connection, helping people build confidence and maintain independence. Persistent stigma around ageing, frailty, and dementia can prevent engagement, highlighting the need for positive messaging, peer ambassadors, and normalising participation in community activities.

Carers rely heavily on third-sector provision for respite, emotional support, and peer connection. Services such as Crossroads Lewis and Alzheimer Scotland are described as lifelines. Supporting carers is essential to sustaining care at home and improving outcomes for both carers and those they support. There is a clear need for flexible, sustainable respite options, particularly for complex and palliative care situations.

Technology offers significant opportunities to reduce isolation and improve access to services. However, barriers remain, including lack of confidence, training, connectivity, and affordable access. The loss of initiatives such as Mpower was keenly felt. Successful digital platforms delivered by community organisations demonstrate what is possible, but ongoing investment and one-to-one support are required to ensure digital inclusion rather than exclusion.

The Western Isles benefit from a rich network of community organisations, volunteers, and informal supports. These assets deliver low-cost, high-impact wellbeing support, including movement, social connection, and practical help. However, workforce shortages, volunteer fatigue, and short-term funding cycles threaten sustainability. Third-sector organisations require long-term investment, equal partnership recognition, and meaningful inclusion of lived experience in planning and policy development.

Movement is central to ageing well. Activities such as walking football, group walks, chair-based and online exercise support physical health, confidence, routine, and social connection. Even light movement helps structure the day and maintain independence, reinforcing the strong link between physical and emotional wellbeing.

Ageing well is fundamentally about inclusion, connection, and community strength. Participants emphasised the need to move away from viewing ageing as decline and towards recognising the value, resilience, and wisdom of older people. Despite structural challenges, the compassion, creativity, and strong community bonds across the islands are seen as a powerful foundation for future solutions.