Older people are facing a growing loneliness crisis and all of the health and well-being issues this can cause. Age UK figures state that there are over 2 million over 75s living alone in Britain and many of these face a persistent problem with loneliness.
Loneliness in the elderly
This is not just about being alone but is about feeling disconnected and lonely. It is about feeling gaps in social connections leading to emotional, painful loneliness. Loneliness does not just affect people who live alone. People living in family homes can feel lonely, while people living on their own can feel perfectly content.
Higher risk
There is a higher risk of loneliness in older people due to a variety of factors, ranging from bereavements and loss of routine through retirement to reduced mobility, lack of transport, financial pressures, and confidence issues.
Some older people will find that they need support from people employed in care worker jobs via companies such as www.caremark.ie/job-opportunities/care-assistant-job-opportunities, while others will find that anxiety increases with age. These can contribute to feelings of emotional loneliness and a sense that the world has shrunk.
Women have a higher likelihood of reporting loneliness amongst older people and more than 90% of older people who feel lonely also experience unhappiness or depression. This can affect family and friend relationships, leading to even more negative feelings.
Professional home care services and support charities can all help in the fight against loneliness by helping to restore routine, confidence, and connections for older people.
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