Concern at the demise of groups aimed at the elderly

A community stalwart in Kelso has expressed concern at the demise of many vital groups aimed at older people.

Retired biologist Isobel Gordon has for many years given talks on local history and medical matters around Kelso and beyond.

But she’s noticed a growing reluctance for people to participate in groups and a steep reduction in the numbers attending.

She would regularly give around 20 talks a year, but so far this year she has only given two.

It is a trend accelerated by the pandemic, but one already beginning to develop before it.

Isabel, 84, organised a Thursday group at Kelso’s Abbey Row Community Centre, but that folded through a lack of people willing to help her out.

She understands that older people are cautious and reluctant to venture out again, but believes that human contact and interaction are vital to avoid social isolation.

She said: “One of my entertainments is giving talks all round the area on almost anything. When lockdown happened I had 13 talks immediately cancelled because nobody of course was going out and when they very occasionally returned membership had fallen steeply. At the last talk there were six in the audience, where there would normally be 20 to 30. People haven’t started going back and rejoining the groups.

“I don’t know whether we are afraid, I am much more cautious about where I go and what I’m do