0 Helping the elderly fight loneliness
- by Accessibility Bathrooms
- 18-05-2020
A recent study has discovered that loneliness among the elderly is reaching astounding proportions. It is estimated that around 1.2 million older or elderly people within the UK are ‘chronically lonely’.
Loneliness is well known to have a negative impact on your mental health. According to the NHS, their figures suggest that over 20% of men aged 65 and over suffer from loneliness-induced depression. This figure is even higher amongst women, at almost 30%. Perhaps even more shockingly, the NHS estimates that around 85% of older people who suffer from depression are left to their own devices.
Most of us have an elderly relative, neighbour or friend. So, in order to help combat the effects of loneliness and isolation, we have decided to put together a few suggestions of how you could help:
A visit can mean more then you know.
We all have busy lives to lead, but did you know that taking just a moment out of your day to pay a visit to an older person, may actually mean more to them than you realise? In addition to providing them with company and someone to have a good chat with, the anticipation of a visit will also give them something to look forward to.
If you are able to visit an elderly relative, friend or neighbour, then try and make a regular date that is convenient for them as well as you, if you can. If you cannot make your arranged timely visit, be sure to let them know as soon as you can and be sure to reschedule, so they know when to expect you next.
Pay attention to their social calendar
If you think that someone you know is lonely, then you can try to encourage them to do things that will fill out their social calendar. Try browsing on the internet for social groups and events, hobby groups or even some support groups that operate within the area. Whilst they may be reluctant or even afraid to go at first, you could always go with them, even if it’s just until they find their feet. If they can’t drive, then see what services are available – you could try local bus services or organise a pick-up and drop-off through a taxi service.
Encourage them to be more active
Exercise itself is a well-known fighter against depression. They don’t have to take up weightlifting or train to run a marathon; there are plenty of low-moderate options available. Keep an eye out for gym classes for older people, walking groups or even community allotments that may be available. If they are an animal person, then they could even get involved with a local animal rescue or offer to walk the neighbour’s dog. Spending time with animals has also been found to help lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety and symptoms of depression.
Volunteer at a charity for anti-loneliness
Many different charities across the UK have been formed specifically to deal with isolation and depression among older people and the elderly. This could be an ideal opportunity for those who do not have elderly people in their lives but who want to help those in their community and to help make a difference.
Whilst there are many of this sort of charities out there, a few of the larger ones to look out for are:
Help them to help themselves
There is a tendency among the isolated to give up on personal appearance and well-being. Fresh, clean clothing and good hygiene can play second-fiddle to a multitude of other priorities; after all, if they’re not planning to see anyone, why would they bother?
However, simple things such as ensuring that their clothes are clean and ironed, and that they have taken a bath or had a shower, can help them feel much better. You could even volunteer to do their washing or offer to take it to the local laundromat for them.
Many people of the older generation who feel isolated are actively afraid of showering or bathing in case they slip, trip or have a fall. A specially designed bathroom can the solution to this. Check out our vast range of walk-in baths, walk-in showers and wet rooms on our website or give us a call on 0800 024 8522 for more information. Safe, comfortable, affordable and stylish, they will make it easier for them to relax and to enjoy bathing again.
With just a little of your time and support, you have the potential to make an elderly person feel valued.
Did you know that chronic loneliness can have the same physical impact as opposed to smoking 15 cigarettes per day! So just knowing that you are there, looking out for them, can help to prevent the development of mental health problems, including the crippling feeling of loneliness and depression that so many older people endure.