ELDERLY residents say "companionship" would help them to stay mentally and physically healthier for longer.

A survey carried out by Home Instead Senior Care in Ascot, Wokingham and Camberley shows that more than 2,000 over 65s would be healthier if they weren't as lonely.

Over a quarter of the resident's surveyed said they spent eight hours alone daily, with almost half (49 per cent) of over 85s facing at least 10 hours a day alone.

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The home care company is urging the public to take action to help older people in the community feel less lonely.

Maggie Martin, owner of Home Instead Senior Care said, “In many cases, it is simply having a friendly face pop by for a cup of tea and asking if they need assistance with their shopping.

"So our message is this; visit your grandma, take your parents out for lunch as often as you can, befriend older neighbours and, if you are looking to turn your compassion into a rewarding career, consider becoming a caregiver.”

The home care company also launched a TV campaign to highlight how care at home works, as well as highlighting the rewarding role working in care can be.

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The survey also revealed 86 per cent of older people in Berkshire want to live at home so they do not lose their independence.

63 per cent also feel safe and more comfortable in their own home than living in a care home.

Maggie added: "It comes as no surprise to us to find that most people want to live at home for as long as possible. For most of us, our home is our sanctuary throughout our lives. When we get older, we’ve raised our families and earned our rest, we should get to enjoy the comfort of our own space."