ALONE’s pre-budget report provides an analysis of the current challenges facing older adults, along with budget recommendations to address these issues. The rising cost of living, ongoing inflation, and the energy crisis have significantly impacted older people. The report includes findings from a pre-budget survey conducted with a random sample of older adults ALONE supports. Of the 460 respondents, 75% reported being affected or severely affected by the cost-of-living crisis, while over half (55%) struggle to pay their bills occasionally or regularly. The report also presents ALONE’s financial data, revealing an increased need for financial support among older adults in the last quarter of 2022 and the first quarter of 2023.
The document outlines ALONE’s budget recommendations, categorised by government department. For the Department of Social Protection, the focus is on ensuring sufficient social welfare for older adults, with proposals related to the State Pension, Telephone Support Allowance, Fuel Allowance, and Living Alone Allowance. Recommendations for the Department of Health aim to improve healthcare access and affordability for seniors, while those for the Department of Housing emphasise strategies to provide safe and affordable housing options. The report also urges the Department of the Taoiseach to establish and fund the position of a Commissioner for Older People. Additionally, recommendations for the Department of Environment, Climate, and Communications focus on supporting those experiencing energy poverty.
Overall, the report highlights the financial struggles older people face due to the rising cost of living and calls on the government to implement budget measures that promote financial security and well-being for this vulnerable population.