LifeCare, established in 1941, is a local charity that has persevered for 85 years. Originally established as the Edinburgh Old People’sWelfare Council by three pioneering local women: Miss Lowe, Miss Whigham and Dr Baxendine. Their aim was simple but ambitious – to give older members of the community a “fuller share in community life”.
Tackling loneliness and isolation still remains at the heart of everything we do today.While 85 years is a remarkable milestone, LifeCare’s work is more important than ever as we all face the challenges that an aging population brings, with more people living with dementia and multiple health conditions, living alone, living further away from relatives and increasingly living on a low income.
In LifeCare’s 2026 strategy, we highlighted that 3 in 5 over 50’s experiencing loneliness in Scotland and that isolation can increase a person’s risk of dementia by about 60%. These statistics display a painful reminder as to why charities like us are needed now more than ever.
People are at the heart of everything LifeCare do and we recognise the power of listening to those we care for. We continually change and adapt alongside the communities we serve. Although LifeCare is a relatively small local charity, the breadth of our work is huge, from helping older people stay safe and independent at home, access to fresh and nutritious food, maintaining friendships and social connections, and keeping physically and mentally active.
“Thank you so much for all of the kindness that you have shown mum. We would never have managed to keep her at home for so long without your help.”
Not only does LifeCare provide vibrant and inclusive support for its clients, we also have a thriving hub that is home to a growing programme of free community activities and events as well as vital support for unpaid carers through wellbeing activities.
“It is the only outing I have in the week, and I really look forward to it, being out and about and amongst other people that understand”
As we look ahead, we want to make sure we can be here for everyone who needs us now, and for those who may need us tomorrow.
