Brazilian Delegation Explores Ageing Well Initiatives in South Ayrshire

South Ayrshire was delighted to welcome visitors from Brazil who were excited to learn more about our pioneering South Ayrshire Ageing Well Movement, which aims to support older adults in leading fulfilling lives through meaningful community engagement, respect for autonomy, and integrated support systems.

The University of the West of Scotland (UWS), in collaboration with South Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership (SA HSCP) and Voluntary Action South Ayrshire (VASA), recently hosted a distinguished delegation from Brazil to explore innovative approaches to ageing and integrated care.

Representing UWS were Dr James Taylor and Helen Rainey, who were joined by Professor Anne Hendry, Senior Associate Director at the International Centre for Integrated Care Scotland and internationally recognised expert in frailty and person-centred integrated care. Together, they welcomed Brazilian visitors Professor Cláudia Braga an Occupational Therapist with a special interest in mental health and Chair of the World Health Organisation Strategic Advisory Group on Mental Health, Brain Health, and Substance Use and Dr Rodrigo Bonicenha, a nurse specialising in ageing and frailty.

Tim Eltringham, Director or Health and Social Care in South Ayrshire said, "It was a privilege to welcome our Brazilian colleagues and share the work we're doing to support older people in South Ayrshire. Ageing well is about more than just health, it's about dignity, connection, and purpose. This exchange has opened the door to exciting opportunities for learning and collaboration."

Delegates shared insights on how loss, grief, and declining health can contribute to loneliness, and discussed policy solutions that integrate healthcare, social and psychological support, community planning, and digital inclusion.

Robert Campbell, South Ayrshire Chief Nurse, added: "We're proud of the innovative approaches being developed here in South Ayrshire, and it's inspiring to see how our work resonates internationally. The visit reinforced the importance of integrated care and community-led solutions in addressing the complex challenges of ageing."

This international exchange marks the beginning of a promising dialogue round transnational education and integrated care, with exciting potential for future collaboration between Brazil and Scotland in these vital areas.