ALONE’s Older Person’s Survey 2025
The 2025 Older Person’s Survey gathered feedback from 656 participants across 26 counties, helping ALONE to assess and enhance its support services for older people in Ireland. The survey, distributed to 3,445 individuals who currently or recently received support, explored participants’ experiences, satisfaction, and recommendations.
Overall feedback was highly positive — 88% of respondents said ALONE had a positive impact on their lives, while 77% felt their needs were met and 88% would recommend ALONE to others. Participants highlighted significant emotional benefits, with 84% reporting reduced loneliness and 82% feeling more optimistic. Befriending services, both telephone and visitation, were particularly valued for fostering companionship and reducing isolation.
However, some participants noted challenges with communication, particularly around changes in support or delayed follow-ups. In response, ALONE is improving communication procedures and standardising access to technology support.
Demand for support services continues to rise. Satisfaction with waiting times for befriending services reached 73–79%, supported by new tools for faster volunteer matching and local recruitment efforts. The survey also revealed that transport, GP access, and cleaning services remain difficult to obtain, prompting ALONE to research practical, evidence-based solutions and to create local service directories.
This annual survey remains vital in ensuring that ALONE’s services continue to evolve, empowering older people to live independently and stay connected within their communities.
