“Fixing the Foundations” is ALONE’s Budget Submission for 2027. The purpose of this submission is to highlight the challenges facing older people, particularly those living alone, and to propose evidence-based, practical measures that will reduce poverty, improve health and wellbeing, and support people to remain living safely and independently at home.
The submission outlines a series of targeted recommendations, including increased income supports, measures to address loneliness and social isolation, investment in community and health services, improvements to housing and energy supports, and the establishment of a Commissioner for Older People.
Key findings presented in the document show that Ireland’s population aged 65 and over is growing rapidly, that many older people living alone are at risk of poverty, and that loneliness, poor health, and housing pressures are placing increasing demands on health and social care services. ALONE concludes that targeted investment in these areas would help older people age with security, dignity, and independence; reduce avoidable hospital and residential care demand; improve health, wellbeing, and social connection; and deliver better value for the State.
This submission was launched on the 24th of June 2026.
