Record numbers of older people seeking help from charity, finds ALONE report

"The figure of 44,000 older people supported in 2024 is a testament to both the efforts of our volunteers and staff, but also to an immense level of need that exists throughout Irish society. With an ageing population, that need is going to grow significantly in years to come."

"The report marks the last full year of the current strategic plan and shows the delivery that was achieved in that timeframe. The integration with the HSE's Enhanced Community Care programme has been key, and ALONE's role in moving care into the community across every corner of Ireland."

ALONE supported just under 44,000 older people in 2024, with health, housing and financial difficulties among the main reasons for support. Almost 11,000 people received personalised needs assessments, and 52% of those reported loneliness, down from 58% in 2023. Only half of those experiencing loneliness had someone visit them, down from approximately 70% the prior year, while 6% had not been out socially in over a year. Physical health concerns affected 51%, a 26% increase on 2023, and a third of those reported falls in the last three months. Just under a third experienced housing issues, many requiring adaptations. Financial concerns affected 30%, with 45% of those with financial problems reporting utility issues, mostly energy bills. Integration with the HSE's Enhanced Community Care programme supported community-based care delivery.

Read at Irish Independent