ALONE seeks volunteers in Westmeath

ALONE, the organisation that enables older people to age well at home, has said this week it has supported 475 older people across Westmeath so far this year with the help of 216 volunteers.

Demand is, however, outpacing supply, and loneliness remains the single biggest issue driving people to seek support in the area.

As it issued a call for more volunteers, ALONE said that loneliness is increasingly recognised as a serious public health issue, with growing evidence linking it to poorer physical and mental health outcomes. The right support at the right time can help older people stay connected, maintain their independence and continue living safely and confidently in their own homes and communities.

ALONE volunteers play a vital role in supporting older people to age at home through regular visits, phone calls, companionship and practical support.

“They are often the frontline connection that helps older people identify emerging needs, access support, and continue living safely and confidently at home,” says ALONE, adding that a recent survey by ALONE found three in four older people felt less lonely through ALONE’s support, demonstrating the vital role volunteers play in helping older people stay connected to their communities.

ALONE provides training, ongoing support and flexible volunteering opportunities, making it easy for people to get involved in a way that suits their availability. Volunteers are also part of a wider network of ALONE services that helps older people navigate issues such as housing, health, finance, social care and community supports.

If you would like to volunteer or learn more, please visit https://alone.ie/volunteer or call ALONE’s National Support and Referral Line on 0818 222 024.