The average over-65 spends less than an hour a day talking to other people

A study of 1,000 adults aged 65 and above found 43 per cent feel they only have a small pool of people around them that they can speak to.

As a result, an average of just 58 minutes a day is spent in conversation with others.

And 22 per cent long for a more varied group of people they could talk to.

Following the findings, Parsley Box, which commissioned the research, has launched a podcast catering exclusively for retirees.

The four-episode ‘Wise Words’ Podcast discussed topics many older adults will relate to – including maintaining friendships, cooking traditions, learning in later life and navigating modern technology.

Three guests contribute to each episode, led by 86-year-old broadcaster David Hamilton.

Holly McComb, CEO of Parsley Box said: “After the age of 65, many people stop working and find their social circle reduces.

“But this leaves many feeling they have fewer people to talk to. We wanted to create something to help counteract this - something warm and engaging, like listening to old friends chatting, but in a modern format.

“Sixty-five is no age at all, and the survey results show they’re as interested in health and wellness as they are retirement or finance.”

‘Something warm and engaging - like listening to old friends chatting’

The research also revealed the top topics of discussion enjoyed by over 65s, including the good old days, music and food.

Travel, movies and TV and family and relationships also featured, along with health and wellness, environmental issues and art and culture.

One in four would also like the opportunity to have more conversations with younger people, according to the OnePoll.com figures.

It also emerged 24 per cent feel like they’re involved in a conversation when listening to podcasts or the radio.

But 17 per cent admit they’d like to be more confident when it comes to knowing where to access podcasts they’d be interested in.

Holly McComb, for Parsley Box, added: “Podcasts provide a fantastic way for older adults to stay socially connected.

“They offer a wealth of information and entertainment that can be accessed at any time, making it convenient for older individuals who may not have the same access to social events.

“Whether it's learning about new developments in health, hearing inspiring life stories, or enjoying engaging discussions on current events, podcasts are a wonderful way to keep the mind active and engaged.”

Top 25 topics over 65s enjoy discussing:

1. Current events
2. Gardening and nature
3. Travel experiences
4. Hobbies and interests
5. Movies and TV shows
6. The ‘old days’
7. Food and cooking
8. Heritage
9. History
10. Favourite books
11. Family and relationships
12. Music and concerts
13. Health and wellness
14. Growing older
15. Environmental issues
16. How people’s approach to life in other generations differs to theirs
17. Retirement
18. Art and culture
19. Sports and fitness
20. Technology and gadgets
21. Personal finance
22. Education and learning
23. Community and volunteering
24. Fashion and style
25. Career and work experiences