A NEW loneliness initiative has been launched to help support older people stay connected, safe and seen.
The project is being launched by Connecting for Life Donegal, which is a HSE-led programme, to support the elderly who may be feeling isolated, disconnected, or alone within their communities.
The inititive also involves An Gadra Síochána, An Post, and older people’s charity ALONE.
The launch will take place in An Grianán Theatre in Letterkenny on Thursday, September 10, from 10am to 12pm, and coincides with World Suicide Prevention Day and Green Ribbon Month.
September is Green Ribbon Month in Ireland, an annual national campaign to challenge mental health stigma and encourage open conversations.
In a press release, HSE Connecting for Life revealed that the initiative “highlights the important role that neighbours, community organistations, postal workers and other people who regularly interact with older residents can play in recognising the signs of loneliness and helping people reconnect with support”.
ALONE is urgently seeking volunteers for their Support and Befriending services in Donegal.
A spokesperson said: “It encourages Donegal communities to look out for one another and to act early when someone appears isolated.
“This initiative strengthens that commitment by ensuring older people know where to turn, who to call, and what supports are available.”
They added that loneliness affects thousands of older people across Ireland.
More than 46,800 older people received ALONE services, and “of those who received personalised needs assessments, 45 per cent reported experiencing loneliness”.
LONELINESS CAN AFFECT SLEEP
According to the HSE, loneliness can affect sleep, mood, confidence, mobility and overall wellbeing.
A HSE spokesperson said: “It is not a personal failing, it is a human experience that can happen to any of us.
“The Connecting for Life Donegal Loneliness Initiative focuses on early connection, community awareness, and practical support.”
The key aims of the initiative are encouraging neighbours, postal workers, gardaí and community members to notice when something has changed.
It also promotes simple check-ins such as “how are you?” and ensuring that older people know that support exists.
It aims to reduce isolation by social prescribing, befriending services and community activities.
Garda Inspector Paul Tierney said: “Our aim is to continue to provide reassurance and support to the older people within our community who live alone and so we are delighted to be involved with this fantastic initiative in conjunction with HSE Connecting For Life and An Post.
“This initiative highlights many local support services and it also highlights the message that we wish to convey to anybody who is feeling vulnerable or alone.
“We are here for you on a 247 basis. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are always here to help.”
ALONE chief Seán Moynihan said: “Loneliness is not a matter of individual resilience or simply being more socially active.
“It is a public health issue with very real consequences for mental and physical wellbeing.
WHEN LONELINESS GOES UNADRESSED, PEOPLE’S HEALTH DETERIORATES MORE QUICKLY
“When loneliness goes unaddressed, people’s health deteriorates more quickly, their independence is undermined and pressure on health and social care services increases.
An Post regional operations manager John Lafferty said: “An Post is delighted to support this important initiative to reduce loneliness and social isolation among older people living alone.
“Through our presence in communities across Donegal, we are proud to help raise awareness of the support services available and encourage people to reach out for assistance when needed.
“The support and engagement of our trusted postmen and postwomen is particularly appreciated, as they provide important points of human contact for people living alone.
“Postal workers may be the only person an older resident sees regularly. Gardaí may notice when someone becomes withdrawn.”
SUICIDE PREVENTION
Ciara Wray, who is a resource officer at the HSE National Office of Suicide Prevention (NOSP) said: “It can make ordinary days feel heavy, and it can leave people feeling unseen, even in the middle of a community.
“What matters most is that none of us face it alone.
“The Connecting for Life Donegal Loneliness Initiative is about reminding people that someone cares enough to notice, to ask, and to stay present.
“A small conversation, a gentle check‑in, a moment of kindness, these can be lifelines.
“If you are feeling lonely, or worried about someone who is, please know this: your feelings matter, and there is support here for you. Reaching out is a brave step.”
If you are aged 60 or over, or if you are concerned about someone who may be feeling lonely, support is available.
Older people can contact ALONE for advice, connection, and practical assistance on 0818 222 024.