Nearly half the people living in Aberdeen have little if any contact with older people, a survey has revealed.
The lack of communication between the generations emerged as David Cameron backed a campaign against loneliness and isolation among pensioners.
Research carried out for the national charity Friends of the Elderly (FotE) found that more than 40% of those aged 18 and above in Aberdeen had “irregular or no contact” with older people.
More than a third (33.4%) do not know their neighbours well enough to have a conversation with them.
The poll of 2,500 nationwide found that the acts most people in Aberdeen are most willing to perform for pensions were: grocery shopping (58.3%), pick up prescriptions (54.2%) and take out their bins (45.8%).
The acts most people appreciated receiving from an older person were: taking in a parcel (45.8%), gardening tips (33.3%) and knowledge of local history (50%).
Research for FotE found that 5million older people in the UK are affected by loneliness with one in 10 saying they often feel lonely.
The key findings of the charity’s recently published report showed there was a strong link between loneliness and low contact with families – contact with children was especially important – and poverty.
FotE wants to encourage people across the country to get to know their older neighbours and help wherever they can.
Downing Street is working with the charity to get 30,000 people involved this year.
The prime minister said: “Friends of the Elderly is at the forefront of the fight against loneliness and isolation amongst older people. Their research shows that small acts of friendship, such as calling in on an elderly neighbour, can have a huge impact.
“The Be a Friend campaign will bring generations together to spark new and enduring friendships across the length and breadth of the country. I wish it every success.”