5 Ways to Tackle Your Elderly Relative’s Loneliness

Loneliness can have a detrimental effect on the health of older people. Feelings of isolation and seclusion and can be compounded by the death of a spouse, or by physical decline such as losing the ability to drive.

Although there are fewer opportunities for elderly people to socially engage, there are ways to help them overcome their loneliness. Here are five tips to how you can help older people connect with others and feel less lonely.

1. Frequent Contact

It sounds obvious, but it is a simple action to neglect. Increasing the frequency of phone calls or visits will to let your elderly relative know you are there for them and can make a world of difference to their mood.

2. The Internet

Introduce your relative to the internet and make efforts to get them online. In addition to providing excellent mental stimulation, online forums or discussions boards can help your relative find other people who share their interests.

3. Local Groups

If getting online seems like too much of a technological leap, there will often be groups existing in your relative’s community which he or she could sign-up to; book clubs, knitting clubs or groups focusing on historical interest may create opportunities for meaningful engagement and interaction. Try asking your local library to see what is on throughout the area.

4. Befriending Services

Age Concern UK has been tackling the problems of loneliness amongst older people and has developed a befriending service. Each older person is assigned a befriender who provides friendly conversation and companionship through regular phone calls or house visits.

5. Education

The University of the Third Age (U3A) offers older people the chance to play or learn something new. Operating in many areas, the U3A is a great place for your relative to meet people and make new friends.

Find your nearest U3A here.