Just eight per cent of pensioners happy with Government’s treatment of older generation

In a poll of 1,000 people over the age of 60, just eight per cent said they were happy with the way the Government treats the older generation.

The poll, carried out by Churchill Retirement Living, also found that over three quarters of over 60s would like to see a Minister for the Elderly created to better address the issues most affecting the older generation.

Ten per cent of those interviewed said they were so disenfranchised they are considering not voting in the next general election, taking place on 7 May 2015.

Spencer McCarthy, Churchill Retirement Living’s chairman and group managing director, said:

“There is much talk about the need for politicians to engage better with the younger generation, but has this come at a cost? Our research reveals that it’s actually the over 60s – around a third of the electorate – who are starting to feel disconnected and disillusioned.

“Having worked hard all their lives, the older generation offers a wealth of experience. They are previous captains of industry, lifelong public sector workers and war heroes. Yet nearly 40 per cent feel their opinion no longer counts.

“Up until now, the over 60s have been the generation most likely to go out and vote. Now, with this demographic at risk of apathy, the key to winning the next general election could be all about reconnecting with the older generation and securing the ‘grey vote’.”

Trust for politicians was found to be low with Prime Minister David Cameron coming out as the most trusted politician despite only receiving 21 per cent of the vote. Labour leader Ed Miliband got seven per cent and Liberal Democrats leader Nick Clegg three per cent of the vote.

The biggest issues that older people believe should be addressed by politicians were found to be pensions, affordable care homes and better healthcare for the over 60s.