International Day of Older Persons

41 per cent of over-75s in Wales spend most or all of a typical day alone, according to figures issued today by Age Cymru.

The charity has published the findings ahead of International Day of Older Persons on 1 October to highlight the problem of loneliness and isolation among older people in Wales. 

The ICM survey also reveals that:

• 24 per cent of over-50s in Wales spend most or all of a typical day alone;
• 38 per cent of over-50s in Wales spend at least half a typical day alone;

Age Cymru’s Director of Influencing and Programme Development Victoria Lloyd says:

“There can be many reasons why people spend all or most of the day alone and while some people choose to be alone, many others are lonely and in need of company.

“It takes a brave person to admit that they are lonely, and so we may never know for certain the full extent of isolation among older people in Wales.

“But these figures are a concern for Age Cymru and they do show that isolation is a significant problem for many of our older population.”

Age Cymru and its local Age Cymru partners across Wales provide a range of services that can provide company, friendship and stimulation for older people.

Victoria Lloyd adds:

”This Sunday, 1 October – International Day of Older Persons, there will be older people in Wales who will be lonely and spending the day alone. 

“But there is help available.

“From befriending schemes, to carers’ circles, to healthy living projects or computer classes, Age Cymru and its local Age Cymru partners run a range of events and activities for older people across Wales.

“So pick up the phone today and contact Age UK Advice on 0800 169 65 65 to find out about your nearest local Age Cymru partner and the services it can provide for you.”

ENDS

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NOTES TO EDITORS

• 1003 people were surveyed by ICM Research  for Age Cymru during 1 and 2 March 2011;
• Of those,  294 were aged 50-64, 148 were aged 65-74, and 97 were aged 75 or over;