Food Train Raises Concerns About Elderly Malnutrition Risk in Stirling & Clackmannanshire
A recent report from the charity Food Train has shed light on a concerning issue affecting older individuals in the Stirling and Clackmannanshire regions. According to the charity, nearly a quarter of people aged 65 and over in these areas are at risk of malnourishment, a figure that exceeds the national average. The charity’s chief executive, Rosie McLuskie, emphasized the gravity of this situation, stating that the reported numbers may only scratch the surface of a much larger problem.
Uncovering the Hidden Problem of Malnutrition
McLuskie highlighted the hidden nature of malnourishment among older people, expressing worries about those who may not be accessing services like Food Train and are consequently being overlooked. She stressed that malnutrition poses a serious threat to the health and well-being of older individuals, urging for increased efforts to identify and support those at risk.
A Personal Perspective
Margaret Neill, a 70-year-old resident of Stirling and a long-time member of Food Train, shared her firsthand experience with the charity. Neill, who relies on volunteers to deliver groceries to her home, expressed gratitude for the support she receives, emphasizing the invaluable role that Food Train plays in her life. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the impact that organizations like Food Train have on the lives of older individuals in the community.
Call to Action
In response to the growing concern over elderly malnutrition, Food Train is taking proactive steps to address the issue. The charity is advocating for mandatory malnutrition screening by all agencies supporting older people, as well as pushing for the right to food to be enshrined in Scots law. Additionally, Food Train is calling for increased investment in community initiatives aimed at combating isolation and providing more opportunities for older individuals to access nutritious food.
Ms. McLuskie emphasized the importance of ensuring that older people have adequate access to food, urging policymakers to prioritize this issue in public policy discussions. By investing in preventative services like those offered by Food Train, the charity believes that the strain on healthcare and social services can be alleviated, ultimately benefiting the overall well-being of older individuals in the community.
For those interested in learning more about how Food Train can provide support, the charity can be reached via email at shopping@thefoodtrain.co.uk or by phone at 0800 3047924. Together, we can work towards ensuring that older individuals in Stirling and Clackmannanshire have the resources they need to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
