The Left Party in Saxony has presented a plan to combat loneliness. "Societies with good social cohesion are friendlier, more peaceful, more productive and more open to innovation. It is an important political task to make offers so that no one who doesn't want to be lonely has to be," said the party, explaining its concerns. This would benefit older people in particular, but loneliness is also a problem in younger age groups.
"Not so long ago, loneliness was less of a problem than it is today. But the last few decades have increased it, especially in eastern Germany, particularly for older people," party leader Susanne Schaper told the German Press Agency. "Those who had or have problems earning a living are less likely to start a family. If you don't have children, you won't have grandchildren in old age." Many families with children were separated when the offspring had to move to the big city or to the West for work.
