Irish are most afraid of poor health as they age, survey says

Irish people are most afraid of worsening health and having no money as they grow older, according to a new survey released on Thursday.

The Alone organisation, which provides services for older people, said the questionnaire asked the public about their concerns about ageing as part of its election campaign.

The respondents were a range of ages and from different backgrounds.

More than 70 per cent said they were worried about their health getting worse as they age, while 58 per cent were concerned about not having enough money.

Forty-one per cent of respondents said they were anxious about loneliness.

Sean Moynihan, chief executive of Alone, noted that most respondents said that they were apprehensive about the capabilities of the healthcare system.

“Younger people often forget that a vote for older person’s issues is a vote for their own futures.

“Meanwhile, older people rarely put their own needs to the fore,” he said.

‘Voiceless’

Mr Moynihan said respondents said they were also worried they would become “voiceless” as they aged and vulnerable to criminal activity.

They were also worried they would lose respect from society.

“It is so important for people of all ages to ensure the needs of older people have a voice in this election.

“A vote of older peoples’ needs is a vote for our future,” he said.

The survey also asked people what they most looked forward to about growing older.

Less stress, taking up hobbies and spending more time with family topped the poll.

Alone’s campaign calls on the Government to implement plans that would allow people to age at home with dignity.