ALONE call on the general public to be mindful of their older neighbours this Halloween

ALONE, the charity that supports older people to age at home, is asking people to be mindful of vulnerable older people over the Halloween period. For many older people Halloween can be a distressing time with people calling to the door or setting off bangers and fireworks.

ALONE are asking parents, who may be out with children trick-or-treating, to keep an eye on their older neighbours. While many older people may welcome trick or treaters and want to engage in the fun of Halloween while others may not like to answer calls to their homes after dark. What a young person may consider to be harmless fun can be very frightening to someone who already feels vulnerable. Children and teenagers should be reminded not to disturb and upset people who may be fearful.

Seán Moynihan, CEO of ALONE commented “We are urging the public to keep an eye on their older neighbours, particularly those who may be living alone, and to consider their needs this Halloween.  We are not asking people to curtail their festive fun, but we are appealing for them to be aware of the older people in their community and to have some consideration for the effect Halloween activities may have on them.”

ALONE can be contacted on (01) 679 1032 for those who have concerns about their own wellbeing, or the wellbeing of a vulnerable older person in the community or visit www.alone.ie  The charity, which depends on donations from the public, has staff and volunteers ready to act on calls and requests for assistance.