Maintain pressure on reforms to protect NHSA quarter of pensioners feel their lives are getting worse
One in four pensioners feel their lives are getting worse, according to a report by the newly merged charity Age Concern and Help the Aged
In a survey of 1,000 of people aged over 65, a quarter said their quality of life has deteriorated in the last 12 months. The charity says the figure is equivalent to nearly 2.5 million individuals in the UK.
The ‘One Voice’ report found that one in five pensioners now live below the poverty line, an increase on last year’s figures. 60% of people questioned said they believe older people suffer age discrimination‚ including in the workplace.
Director of Age Concern and Help the Aged‚ Michelle Mitchell‚ says: ‘Loneliness‚ depression‚ poverty and neglect blight the lives of millions of older people and for many‚ evidence shows the situation is getting worse‚ not better.
‘The care and support system for older people is on the brink of collapse. Despite the economic conditions dominating the headlines‚ the current Government and all political parties must not shy away from addressing the long term challenges of an ageing society.’
The charity has called on the Government to spend an extra £1-2 billion on older people’s social care.
It has also recommended that mandatory retirement ages are banned to ensure equal rights for older citizens.
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