Older people shielding need support to access food, medicine and help in new lockdown says MSP
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
Older Scots living alone face a winter of uncertainty without plans to improve access to food, medical attention and prescriptions, a North East MSP warned today.
MSP Tom Mason made the call at the Scottish Parliament as he underlined how “shielders” have been at risk of mental and physical health issues caused by prolonged periods of Covid-19 restrictions.
The MSP urged older people’s minister Christina McKelvie to listen to Age Scotland warnings that those living alone will rely heavily on volunteers to collect their food and medicine.
Difficulties obtaining delivery slots and click-and-collect shopping were widespread in the first lockdown.
Data obtained by the Scottish Conservatives last year showed that food boxes ordered by the Scottish Government had to be supplemented by other shopping before it was scrutinised.
The 78-year-old, who himself shielded last year, said: “Back in March, over-75s were asked to shield for four weeks, which quickly became eight weeks, then until the summer, and now well into spring.
“For those living alone, there will be issues with isolation and loneliness as face-to-face contact is again reduced.
“Now, Age Scotland is warning that another lockdown will be extremely difficult for older people to endure, and that a winter action plan will be needed to make sure they can access the food, medicines and treatments needed to get through these latest measures.
“Will the Minister commit to delivering these provisions in a winter plan for our older people as they face the challenges these restrictions bring in the weeks ahead?”
