Urban dwellers fear loneliness as they grow old

Loneliness is the biggest fear factor about growing old in Ireland, with urban dwellers more concerned about being isolated than their rural counterparts.

According to a survey conducted for Macra na Feirme, being lonely in old age is of greatest concern for 27% of people while security and lack of access to health services also feature prominently.

The results of the survey, conducted by Calor, were revealed by Macra yesterday at the launch of its Know Your Neighbour winter campaign.