ALONE’s Older Person’s Survey 2026
The 2026 Older Person’s Survey gathered feedback from 682 participants across 26 counties, the highest number ever recorded, helping ALONE to assess and enhance its support services for older people in Ireland. The survey explored participants’ experiences, satisfaction, and recommendations.
Overall feedback was highly positive: 83% of respondents said ALONE made a difference to their lives and 80% would recommend ALONE to a friend. Participants highlighted significant emotional benefits, with 75% reporting feeling less lonely and 75% feeling more confident and independent. However, some participants noted challenges with communication and dependability, particularly when volunteer matches ended without enough notice. In response, ALONE is improving communication procedures and reviewing our check-in calls.
Satisfaction with waiting times for volunteer matching reached 84%, up from 73% last year, supported by new online tools for staff. The survey also showed transport remains the hardest local service to access, with home support now second.
This annual survey remains vital in ensuring ALONE’s services continue to evolve, empowering older people to live safely, independently, and happily at home.
