A watchful eye and a little time can help alleviate the effects of loneliness in older neighbours.
In the UK, over 1 million older people admit to always or often feeling lonely, and almost half of those aged 65+ say that television or pets are their main source of company, according to Age UK. These statistics are particularly worrying given the serious effects that loneliness can have on mental and physical health, and quality of life.
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Loneliness can contribute to depression, insomnia and unhealthy lifestyle choices. General enthusiasm to daily habits such as personal hygiene and venturing out can disappear when suffering with loneliness. But thankfully there are solutions to combat it. If you have elderly neighbours or loved ones, there are a few things you can do to help them prevent loneliness and the issues that come with it.
1. Stop and chat
Small gestures such as stopping for a quick chat on the street can brighten up the day of someone who otherwise might not talk to anyone for the entire day. Keep an eye out for your elderly neighbours and if you see someone who is regularly alone, be sure to chat to them and see how they’re doing.
2. Share food
Inviting a lonely neighbour to dinner can be the highlight of their week. Of course, not everyone has the time to do this regularly but there are other ways to share a meal. If you have an extra portion of dinner bring it to your neighbour in a container. The chat while you drop it over will help alleviate loneliness, let them know someone is thinking about them and provide a nutritious meal.
3. Don’t cancel plans
Only make plans with your elderly neighbour that you are sure you can keep. When you have advance plans, there is a good chance that your neighbour will spend days looking forward to it. Cancelling those plans can lead to disappointment and increased feelings of loneliness. Of course, if there is an emergency that is different but, in general, always keep the plans you have made.
4. Help out
Helping with light errands or chores is a great way to lend a needed hand to your elderly neighbour. Popping to the supermarket or post office can provide great assistance, while the interaction will help curb their feelings of isolation.
5. Offer to drive
Giving up personal transport is a major contributing factor to loneliness. While many older people can avail of free travel cards, using public transport is not a viable option for everyone. Check in with your neighbour to see if they might need a lift to the shops, doctor or community centre. Having reliable transport can make all the difference.
6. Listen
When you stop in the street or call over for a cup of tea, be sure to really listen. To alleviate loneliness it’s important that the older person has a chance to talk about what’s on their mind, stories from their past, or whatever is occupying their thoughts at the time. Active listening will keep your conversation engaging and help remedy those lonely feelings.
7. Introduce technology
Some older people might be uncertain about using new technologies or worried that they won’t know how. Teaching older people to use smartphones, tablets and apps such as Skype will greatly improve their communication capabilities and help prevent loneliness. If you don’t have the time to call over every week, staying in touch by text, email or video call is a good alternative.
8. Join an organisation
Organisations such as Age UK offer volunteering opportunities for those who want to offer assistance to elderly people. You can become a befriender and make regular visits to a person who might suffer from loneliness. This is an extremely rewarding activity that often produces real and meaningful friendships.
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