Combatting Loneliness – Elmfield Care Reveal the Best Ways to Feel Less Lonely
Elmfield Care team members reveal the best ways family and friends can help their elderly relatives feel less lonely
Loneliness is a serious problem that can have a negative impact on the physical and mental health of older adults. According to Age UK 1.4 million older people in the UK are often lonely.
To help those worried about their elderly friends and relatives, some of our experts have provided their tips on how to combat loneliness in the elderly.
Stay connected.
It’s important to stay connected with family and friends. One of the best ways to stay connected is to make time for face-to-face interactions, even if it’s just for a quick coffee date. Fortunately, even on days where you can’t meet in person, you can still keep in touch via video calls, or speak to them over the phone and through texting.
Encourage them to get involved in social activities.
Having new experiences and forming new friendships can help bring people together. If your elderly relatives are in a care home, encourage them to take part in the social activities that are offered. From themed events, celebrations, and day trips, there are a wide range of social events that are inclusive for all.
Get regular exercise.
Getting regular exercise can help elderly people in several ways and can have many mood-boosting effects. It can help people feel more confident and capable, which can result in them reaching out to others more. It can also help reduce stress and anxiety, which often contribute to loneliness. Many exercise programs are group-based, which provides the opportunity for social interaction and can help the elderly make new friends.
Be a good listener.
It may seem simple, but when an elderly person is feeling lonely, they may just need someone to listen to them. Make sure you don’t interrupt or finish their sentences as it can make them feel like you’re not listening. Also, asking open-ended questions can encourage friends and family to share their thoughts and feelings.
Be patient.
Elderly friends and relatives may have difficulty communicating due to memory, hearing, or vision problems. Likewise, they may struggle to find the right words to express themselves. Being patient and understanding can help them feel less frustrated and more likely to communicate. Remember it may take some time for an elderly person to adjust to new social activities or relationships.
