To carry out the same duties over a lifetime, and to grow into the role of sovereign in such a dignified and elegant manner, is a wonderful example to us all … while we are UK.Care.Com are neither royalist nor republican, our interest in individuals across the lifespan means that we will always admire a 86 year old woman who lives an active a life as Elizabeth II.
We also know that the Queen is a very lucky woman – born into a happy family unit, she enjoyed an idyllic childhood as well as personal wealth, and the support of a long-term spouse. Loneliness is something that she is unlikely to have suffered from in her life – it is likely that occasionally she may have dreamed of time alone, away from her duties, advisors and supporters!
However, many older people can suffer from depression and loneliness around holiday times. Research by Campaign to End Loneliness highlights that depression is an issue for older people particularly after bereavement, and this can be exacerbated during public holidays as normal social interactions around everyday life is interrupted.
How can we help? We all know that parents and Mums in particular are busy people, but if you or your family can spare time for older people in your neighbourhood, there are many ways to help:
- Organisations such as Contact The Elderly have wonderful befriending programmes in place, and hold tea parties regularly.
- Try to get to know your elderly neighbours’ names, ask them about their health, see if you have common interests – or even just watch the same TV programmes, something to start the conversation.
- In the supermarket or out shopping, stop to ask an older person if they need your help with something – don’t forget that things might be too heavy or out of reach
- Make a note to call your extended family – if you have elderly loved ones, try to make time to include them in your plans or social events.
- If you are hosting a Jubilee event or planning to watch the Jubilee celebrations on TV, consider including older loved ones, neighbours and friends.
- If your children are crafty or enjoy posting letters, next time they are at the kitchen table sticking and gluing, encourage them to make something for an older neighbour or loved one – it could even be Jubilee themed! – and then go to post it together.