75,000 older people in Wales have reported always or often feeling lonely, whilst more than 1.2 million older people are chronically lonely in the UK. This can be harmful to the health and wellbeing of the elderly, so Janet Finch-Saunders AM has joined with age Cymru to in calling on people across Wales to “tackle Loneliness and Isolation now”.
Welsh Conservative Older People’s champion, and Assembly Member for Aberconwy said:
“People of all ages experience Loneliness and Isolation. However, the situation is particularly rife amongst the elderly.
“Such has been my concern for the elderly that last year I took part in the Be a Santa to a Senior campaign so that some of those who would be on their own on Christmas day would have something to unwrap. During this I witnessed the generosity of the communities I represent, and their willingness to help the elderly.
“I call on communities in Aberconwy and across Wales to join with me and age Cymru to tackle loneliness and isolation now.
“Together, we can all create an Age Friendly Wales in which older people are empowered and included within our big society.
“We can talk to the elderly in shops, on public transport, and make a pledge to start a conversation.
“We can organise or attend a Great Get Together event on the weekend of 17th/18th June. These aim to bring communities together in neighbourhood lunches.
“I can, and will support Age Cymru’s campaign to end Loneliness. For example, I will try to ensure that local authorities monitor and respond to the impact of the withdrawal of local services on older people, such as the closure of bus routes and community facilities.
ENDS
Notes:
Document attached:
- Age Cymru’s Manifesto on loneliness
Photo:
- Janet Finch-Saunders AM