Over a third of Swiss seniors suffer from loneliness as volunteer shortage worsens

More than a third (37%) of people aged 85 and over in Switzerland suffer from loneliness - around 90,000 seniors, according to Pro Senectute’s Observatoire vieillesse. Loss of mobility is often accompanied by a shrinking social network. “Loneliness has serious health consequences and significantly reduces life expectancy,” Pro Senectute warned in a press release on Sunday. + Get the most important news from Switzerland in your inbox The survey shows that those aged 85 and over are significantly more affected by loneliness than younger seniors. Among those aged 65-74, the proportion is around 24%, while it’s just over 25% among those aged 75-84. “Older people often have to cope with the death of loved ones, leading to a shrinking social network. They also face more health problems,” explains Alexander Widmer, member of the Board of Directors of Pro Senectute Switzerland. “However, loneliness should not be confused with being alone,” says the organisation. Being alone is not ...