The national charity ALONE says it has seen a particular rise in older people needing its help in Castleblayney, as well as Virginia and Belturbet in Co Cavan. A Monaghan Town woman who was matched with one of its volunteers is urging older people who feel lonely or isolated to get in touch.
ALONE told Northern Sound that Ireland's rapidly ageing population has brought a "massive increase" in demand for its services across the country, and that the rise is being seen locally too. The charity offers in-person and phone support to older people who are isolated, frail or living in poverty.
"I don't feel alone"
Carmel Hill, who lives in Monaghan Town, said her life was transformed after she contacted ALONE. She was matched with a local volunteer, Josephine McGaughran. The two meet about once a week and have become close friends.
"Meeting up with Josephine, as a volunteer, has changed a lot of things for me because I know there's somebody out there who cares," she told the station. "They don't have to come and spend 24/7 with you. An hour is a lot for somebody that is alone."
"Reach out, don't be alone, don't feel alone," she said.
A growing need
ALONE launched its 2026–2029 strategy, Delivering What Matters, in April. It said it would support 52,300 older people across Ireland in 2026, working with thousands of volunteers and 300 staff. By 2029 it aims to support 125,000 older people with the help of 10,000 volunteers.
The charity says the number of people aged 65 and over is expected to double again over the next 20 years. It says many older people are struggling with rising living costs, poor housing, declining health and social isolation.
Support for older people was also on the agenda at the recent Monaghan Older Persons Council AGM in Clones. Contact details for ALONE's national support line are on its website, alone.ie.
