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Ireland has a population of approximately 5.3 million people, including around 1.6 million living in Dublin and 220,000 in County Meath.
Like many European countries, Ireland is experiencing a significant ageing of its population. There are currently around 833,300 people aged 65 and over, and this number is projected to more than double, reaching approximately 1.88 million by 2057.
This demographic shift will significantly increase the proportion of older people within Irish society, creating growing needs in terms of social support, healthcare and community-based services. It also highlights the importance of promoting social connections and preventing loneliness and isolation among older people as the population continues to age.
Friends of the Elderly is an Irish volunteer-based charity, established in 1980, that plays a vital role in addressing the needs of an ageing population. As the number of older people continues to grow, so too does the need for meaningful connections and community support. We are dedicated to promoting positive ageing by offering friendship, companionship, and lifelong relationships to older adults who may feel isolated or live alone. We are dedicated in trying to alleviate loneliness and isolation felt by so many older people today.
At the heart of what we do is the belief that ageing should be a time of joy, dignity, and connection. We work tirelessly to ensure that our older members can maintain their independence while feeling a strong sense of belonging to a wider community. Our volunteers form lasting friendships with the people they support, creating bonds that enrich both their lives and the lives of our older friends.
Our social engagement programmes, including Home Visitation, the Friendly Call Service, Social Clubs, and Day Trips, are designed to combat loneliness and foster connection. As we face an ageing population, the demand for these services has never been greater. Last year, we were privileged to support nearly 1300 older men and women, all thanks to the dedication of over 340 volunteers.
Friends of the Elderly is committed to promoting positive ageing by offering not only support but opportunities for social enrichment and friendship. With no government funding, we rely entirely on the generosity of individual and corporate donors, and we deeply appreciate every contribution that allows us to continue making a difference in the lives of Ireland’s older community.
Our Home Visitation program provides much-needed companionship to older adults who may feel lonely or isolated. Through regular visits, our dedicated volunteers spend quality time with individuals in their own homes, offering friendship, conversation, and emotional support. These visits help foster meaningful connections and create a sense of community, ensuring that no one has to face the challenges of aging alone. At Friends of the Elderly, we believe that small acts of kindness, like a friendly visit, can make a big difference.
Our Friendly Call service offers regular phone calls to older adults who may feel isolated or lonely. Through these scheduled calls, our volunteers provide a listening ear, friendly conversation, and emotional support, helping to brighten someone’s day and remind them that they are not alone. These simple but meaningful connections make a real difference, offering comfort, companionship, and a sense of community. At Friends of the Elderly, the Friendly Call service is a vital part of how we support and care for older individuals as part of our staying connected programme.