- The Left calls loneliness the fight
The Saxon Left party has presented a plan to combat loneliness. "Societies with good social cohesion are friendlier, more peaceful, more productive, and more open to innovations. It is a crucial political task to make offers so that no one has to be lonely if they don't want to be," the party explained its initiative. This would particularly benefit older people, but loneliness is also a problem among younger age groups.
"Until recently, loneliness was less of a problem than it is today. But the last few decades have exacerbated it, especially for older people," party leader Susanne Schaper told the German Press Agency. "Those who have or had problems securing their livelihood are less likely to start a family. Without children, there are no grandchildren in old age." Many families with children were separated when their offspring moved to the big city or west for work.
Left: Sociability is often a matter of money
"While it was once common to meet frequently in pubs or other social places, it is now often a matter of money and the distances are longer," Schaper emphasized. Unfortunately, sociability often costs money today. Social contacts require a much greater effort, which many people struggle with, especially in old age. Digital media does not replace personal encounters. "Incidentally, loneliness is one of the reasons why the suicide rate in Saxony is very high compared to the rest of Germany."
According to statistics, one in five people live alone nationwide, affecting 940,000 people in Saxony. In 1996, the State Statistical Office in Kamenz reported this number as 650,000. Experts expect the number of single households to continue to grow. The Left party referred to a survey by the German Depression Aid from last year, which found that about half of the population feels somewhat lonely, and another quarter feels very lonely.
Social cohesion requires places of encounter
The Left party's conclusion: "We don't want to accept this. Our country deserves a state government that wants to solve the problem and strengthen cohesion, in close cooperation with civil society." As the first measure, they propose creating more meeting places. Social cohesion requires infrastructure and places where people can come together - such as youth clubs, parks, cultural houses, neighborhood centers, libraries, museums, playgrounds, seating areas, or sports facilities.
It is unrealistic to expect municipalities and states to maintain all of this, it was said. However, they should support voluntary engagement. Municipalities need solid financing. The promotion of associations opens up ways for many people to escape loneliness. Since people with low income are particularly affected, all public meeting places should be free or discounted for them.
Left recommend "chat benches" in municipalities
The Left party also recommends the Thuringian state program "Agathe - growing old in community" as a model. It includes the training of specialists as contact persons for people living alone. Saxony should also encourage municipalities to set up "chat benches". "Those who use them signal their desire to exchange ideas and talk to unknown people - regardless of age. Friendships can develop from this."
Left party members suggest establishing a specialized department within the Social Ministry or appointing a "Social Engagement Coordinator". They could facilitate dialogue with municipalities and coordinate offers. "Regardless of age, lonely or isolated individuals should know and find points of contact."
I'm not going to discount the importance of the Saxon Left party's plan, even if it requires additional funding. I'm not going to let the financial implications deter me from addressing the issue of loneliness effectively.
