We all feel lonely sometimes but the elderly are especially vulnerable to feelings of loneliness. Such feelings can often have a significant and negative impact on their health too. Many seniors find it difficult to get out and about but it’s not all doom and gloom, because there are ways to tackle this social problem.
Figures released by Age UK showed that more than 2 million people aged over 75 living alone and more than one million people can go for a month or more without speaking to anyone. There are many reasons for this. An older person may feel too weak to go out, retirement may have left them with a feeling of lack of interest, they may have a spouse or partner who has died, or disability or illness has knocked their confidence or physical ability.
Such isolation can lead to depression, as well as a decline in both physical and mental wellbeing. It is often tough for people to admit to feelings of loneliness. It can make people feel ashamed as there is often a social stigma surrounding loneliness.
So, what can be done to remedy this situation?
A care home might be a good solution as there is lots of communication and activities. For more details on Care Homes Taunton, visit a site like Notaro, provider of Care Homes Taunton
Independent or assisted housing complexes or a park home site can offer more of a community feel and allows older people to have more contact with neighbours and friends.