ALONE reveal that “poor health” is the primary worry of our ageing demographic #AGE16

ALONE reveal that “poor health” is the primary worry of our ageing demographic #AGE16

Charity urges public to seek commitment from candidates that they will support older people to age at home

Dublin, 18th February 2016, ALONE has today released survey results which reveal the real hopes and worries of our ageing demographic. People of all ages completed the questionnaire aimed at discerning the real issues that candidates need to consider when it comes to addressing the needs of our ageing demographic.

The survey results found that the top three things people most look forward to about growing older are; less stress, taking up hobbies and time with family. The three things people worry most about with regard to growing older are; poor health, not having enough money and being alone or lonely.

Sean Moynihan, CEO of ALONE, commented, “Younger people often forget that a vote for older person’s issues is a vote for their own futures. Meanwhile older people rarely put their own needs to the fore when choosing candidates, preferring to worry about their grandchildren’s education, or the young couple down the road who are struggling to get a mortgage.”

We found the survey results incredibly interesting, and feel confident that the policies identified in ALONE’s election manifesto – ‘AGE16’ will address these issues.  Our respondents were most concerned about being able to maintain independence on the state pension, finding themselves isolated or lonely and the ability of the healthcare system to support them when they need it.

ALONE also asked respondents to submit any other concerns they may have about ageing, these included; the fear of being hindered from making a contribution, losing respect from society and feeling vulnerable amidst rising crime levels.

Moynihan continued, “This survey has revealed that people fear that they will find themselves voiceless and unheard as they get older. It is so important for people of all ages to ensure the needs of older people have a voice in this election, a vote of older peoples’ needs is a vote for our future”.

We are asking the public to inform canvassers and candidates that they will consider the needs of older people a priority when making their decisions on Election Day. Prioritising the needs of our older people is something that everyone should take an interest in as inevitably we all grow older and the decisions we make now will impact us later.

ALONE are a national, quality approved charity and have developed unique cost effective models that supports older people to age at home.  Their #AGE16 campaign for this general election is asking the government to support older persons to age at home through:

• Greater investment in services in the community
• Alternative models of housing for older people
• Securer pensions
• The Appointment of a Minister for our Ageing Demographic

Click here to view ALONE manifesto in full. Join the conversation about the ALONE’s General Election 16 Manifesto using #AGE16.

For those who have concerns about their own wellbeing, or the wellbeing of an older person in the community, ALONE can be contacted on (01) 679 1032. For more information about ALONE’s manifesto visit www.alone.ie