The Sunday Post View: Loneliness is more than just a sad fact of life… it’s deadly

THERE are a number of serious issues that face us as we enter our later years.

For many, keeping good health is probably at the top of our priorities.

For others, it may be ensuring they have the adequate finances to see them through retirement.

But there is one issue that is often forgotten. One that is often a killer.

And that is loneliness.

In fact, some studies say it is as dangerous as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

That is why the decision to withdraw financial support to the Food Train is deeply worrying.

The service provides regular deliveries of food to 172 people, half of whom are aged 85 or over.

It’s all the more galling that the demise of this lifeline service comes as the Government launches a consultation on how society can tackle loneliness and isolation.

We understand that the Food Train has come to the end of its three-year funding but what does the Government now propose those elderly people do in its absence?

And what solutions do the local council and health authorities have for those affected by this decision?

It is all well and good talking about tackling the awful effects of loneliness, but those in power must show they are serious about dealing with this issue.

Perhaps it’s time they paid a visit to the elderly in the community to hear first-hand how they feel about loneliness in old age.

And, perhaps, they could start with those hit by the loss of the Food Train.