national

Calls to Senior Help Line Soar

The first five months of the year saw a 60% increase in the number of calls to Ireland's Senior Help Line.

Financial concerns, family worries, loneliness and security fears are among the issues that have older people looking for help.

Third Age, which runs the service is also urging people to check up on elderly neighbours during the holiday period, because they can feel especially vulnerable if their neighbours are away.

A survey by the helpline shows pensioners are also reporting being unable to sleep at night for a number of reasons, including the fear of being burgled.

A number of callers complained they have to spend scarce funds on fuel during the current damp and cold summer.

Some callers said they are having money stolen by employees.

The group also says it constantly hears from the lonely and the isolated.

The Senior Helpline is provided in confidence by over 350 trained older volunteers.

Contact the helpline at LoCall 1850-440444.