Loneliness biggest worry about growing older for 25%
Over a quarter of us say that loneliness is our biggest worry about growing older.
Farmers' group Macra na Feirme has carried out a survey to coincide with winter time which officially starts next weekend.
They have found that the fear of isolation is greatest in urban areas where a third of people complain of it, compared to just over a fifth living in the countryside.
Concerns over security and access to health services also feature prominently.
Macra's launched its 'Know your Neighbour' campaign to encourage people to visit their more vulnerable neighbours this winter.
Broadcaster and ‘Know Your Neighbour’ ambassador Sile Seoige commented, “As winter draws in and the evening gets darker we need to be aware that those who live alone can feel isolated. This is just as much the case in urban as rural areas. Through the ‘Know Your Neighbour’ winter campaign, I’m joining Calor and Macra na Feirme, in calling on members of the public to visit their more vulnerable neighbours. Even a small gesture like calling in to have a cup of tea could make a real difference.”
