Loneliness and depression in the elderly

Loneliness and Older People During the longer, darker days in winter, elderly people are more likely to feel the effects of loneliness and social isolation. This can also have a marked and adverse effect on health, but there are ways that we can try to combat these feelings and stay positive about life.

Loneliness affects hundreds of thousands of older people and currently more than 2 million people in England over the age of 75 live alone. Many of those people report not speaking regularly to a friend, neighbour or family member.

There can be a number of reasons for social isolation. For example retirement, bereavement, disability or illness or families moving away. These can lead to a serious decline in both mental and physical health, Many people feel lonely and depressed and this can stop them reaching out for help. Below are a few ways that you can help yourself through a difficult time also help others who you know that may be experiencing these feelings.

Smile When you smile at others it can lift your mood – it is said that smiling is infectious so you will likely get one back. You never know, you smiling at someone else could make their day, as they may be lonely too.

Put the kettle on Why not ask someone you know over for a cup of tea. Most people enjoy an invitation to a cup of tea and a chat. This could then be a regular thing as you may be invited back in to the homes of others.

Pick up the phone A chat with a friend or relative over the phone is the next best thing to having them there with you.

New technology To help cope with feelings of loneliness and isolation especially when family and friends live far away or have busy lives social media sites such as Twitter or Facebook are good ways to keep in touch. You could use Skype to video call them.

There are lots of local organisations for example libraries, community centres or adult education centres that can help you learn how to use this new technology.

Joining a class will also help to get you out and about and meet new people. You could ask a younger family member to teach you how to use these as they are usually confident in using new technology. This will be a good activity for you both to take part in.

If you have difficulty getting to a place that provides classes, you could use a tablet or smart phone as they are fully portable, lightweight and with the use of a stylus pen or touch screen may help if you have dexterity issues.

Join a local group

There are many community groups in around the UK. There will be activities such as choirs, book clubs, bingo, walking groups, coffee mornings etc. Look in your local press or magazine, community centre or library for groups local to you.

Plan your time‌.

Often having something to look forward to can really help to brighten up your outlook and minimise feelings of loneliness.

Plan your days in advance and make sure each day you do something you enjoy.

Getting out and about maybe just going for a walk or a sit in the park, to a local coffee shop, the library or the cinema are all great ways to combat loneliness.

Get moving Go out and visit people. If you use public transport, plan your journey days and times and take advantage of free public transport on buses and trains.

There are also cheaper options if you book in advance or get a Senior Railcard for any longer journeys.

Volunteering A great way beat loneliness, meet new people and become involved in your local community is to volunteer. This is also a good way to give back all the knowledge and experience you have learned throughout your life. Many charities and voluntary groups are always looking out for volunteers, You can check your local newspaper, library and community centres for more details.