Four million pensioners feel their needs are ignored by local councils, a charity said today.
The study by Help the Aged found that a third of the country's 12 million pensioners think councils turn a blind eye to their well-being Researchers made the estimate based on a survey of 1,000 people over the age of 60, uncovering discontent with basic services and how pensioners are valued in society.
More than half of those surveyed claimed that local authorities fail to ask their opinions on issues affecting older people.
Amy Swan, policy officer for Help the Aged, called on councils to make pensioners feel "valued, not dismissed'', especially among those who make contributions to society through volunteering.
She said: "It's awful that so many older people feel ignored and let down by their local council.
"Older people often make huge contributions to their local community through volunteering to help others. Their years of experience should be valued, not dismissed.'' Ms Swan said the UK's ageing society has to put older people's needs at the top of the agenda.
She added: "This needs to be more than just lip-service or the odd token gesture. When making decisions about public services, local authorities should be legally bound to consider the needs of people of all ages, including older people.
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