With it being Loneliness Awareness Week (14th – 18th June), it reminds us of the importance of checking in with our loved ones who may be feeling lonely, this past year, more than ever. The elderly are extremely likely to face loneliness, especially those who live alone, suffer from mobility or disability issues, or are widowed.
Loneliness amongst the older generation is not a new find, with many charities and organisations working hard to find ways to connect seniors and increase their daily interactions and check-ins.
Age UK reported that 3.8 million individuals over the age of 65 live alone, 58% of whom are over 75 (around 2.2 million individuals), so there’s a high chance that an elderly loved one of yours is prone to feelings of loneliness, sadness and disconnection.
Luca Rado, co-founder of The Live In Care company has compiled his expert knowledge and experience to share some practical tips on how you can support your elderly loved ones who may be feeling lonely.
Understanding different causes and ways in which people feel lonely is important in order to be able to support someone experiencing it. Luca has explained that:
“Loneliness can be defined as a state or feeling where an individual feels separated from meaningful interactions and relationships, be that through physical distance or emotional distance. Loneliness can be caused when traditional ways to communicate or socialise are limited, for whatever reason. An example of this being the covid-19 pandemic where face-to-face interaction was not possible. Meaningful conversations and interactions can be inhibited for some, and it can be, and often is, particularly associated with elderly people.”
There are some simple ways that you can help which could make a significant difference to a loved one who is feeling alone, luca has provided 3 tips on how to take action if you are concerned an elderly loved one may be feeling lonely:
1. Keep them busy
“Keeping them busy is the biggest form of distraction from any feelings of sadness or loneliness. Whilst at the time of writing this, there are still restrictions on interaction and meeting up, and maybe your loved one is physically unable to walk, there are other ways to keep busy. Book in calls, arrange to watch the same TV show or film and then discuss it later. Book a regular family or group visit. Plan themed meals together for particular events. Doing the same thing at the same time – even if not together – brings a sense of belonging and togetherness for both parties.
2. Stay in contact
“Digital disconnection is one of the biggest risks of all. Whilst grandchildren and adult children can easily share pictures, videos and voice notes, this is all very new to this generation. There are lots of advancements in technology to suit senior users or those with dexterity issues to be able to still stay in touch easily. Technology isn’t the only answer; it’s heart-warming to also receive letters or ‘thinking of you’ gifts. Regular contact is the key here. Loneliness, like all feelings, isn’t easy for someone to always communicate. Staying in regular contact keeps the communication and conversation channel open should they wish to discuss their feelings or ask for extra support and help.
3. Make inclusive plans
“We’ve all gone from regular social contact to limited or zero interaction over the last year. When you’ve had a life with lots of laughs, events and engagements, this is quite a shock to the system, physically and mentally. Not all elderly loved ones are as physically able as they used to be and this can be a barrier in arranging activities, as they are worried that they may struggle, hurt themselves, or cause inconvenience. Remind your loved ones that you will be there and find solutions to barriers that keep them alone. When it is safe to do so, arrange lunches at café’s that are wheelchair accessible, or find parks with lots of benches for rests. These little touches that are inclusive of your loved one’s situation can be the difference in their involvement and happiness, or them passing up the opportunity to socialise.”
You can find more information on the signs of loneliness and useful resources for senior loneliness here – https://www.theliveincarecompany.co.uk/care-guides/guide-to-loneliness/
