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Tips on loneliness

mrs Ellie Lindsay OBEmrs Ellie Lindsay OBE

Tips on loneliness

At some point in our lives many of us may experience periods of loneliness from time to time and for some individuals this may lead to withdrawal from family, friends and the wider society. Loneliness and social isolation can also have serious consequences on an individual’s physical, mental and social health. But the risks of social isolation depend not only on who you are, but also on where you live. 

In the UK, the proportion of older persons living alone is increasing, with many elders spending too much time alone. The long-term effects of solitude can lead to experiencing an even greater risk of loneliness and total withdrawal from society. 

Experiencing loneliness is something many of us do not like to admit. Since enforced social isolation, this has made for a more worrying encounter. For many people, loneliness is an experience of mixed emotions that can lead to uncertainty, anxiety and a deep sense of seclusion. For example, following a bereavement, depression and sudden withdrawal from their loved ones, social groups, and organisations. 

In this current time of social distancing, it’s all too easy to lose sight of the potential long-term consequences on seniors, made from imposed restrictions and the impact on the withdrawal of their family and social relationships. 

Living alone and isolated, many seniors may become vulnerable to a variety of unexpected problems and may also have underlying health issues. With this in mind, I have included some tips and advice that you will hopefully consider: 

Ask your local parish councillor if they are holding an At Risk Register ensuring Data Protection (GDPR) for those who wish to receive support. If there is a local register, ask: 

a) to have your name added as an individual, living alone and request close monitoring. 

b) have a neighbour to keep a friendly eye out in case anything seems amiss. 

c) provide details of your next of kin and/or close friend, should you become unwell and need GP or family support. 

Having a sense of purpose is very important for the elderly, particularly when you feel as though you may be losing your independence by having to seek support from a neighbour, so think about contacting Age UK www.ageuk.org to get a personal alarm. 

People experiencing a deep sense of loneliness, anxiousness or feeling worried about coronavirus should contact their GP and/or www.mind.org for support. 

It’s vitally important to contact your GP if you feel unwell or require a medication review. Call 111 If it’s not a life-threatening situation but you require urgent medical help or advice. 

  1. Ensure your phone contacts are current and up-to-date, with neighbours/GP/Pharmacy/local shop details 
  2. Recharge your mobile phone regularly 
  3. Remain connected to family and friends through letter writing or via social media: phone calls, email, text, WhatsApp, Skype etc 
  4. Make sure you have your repeat prescriptions renewed/reviewed 

Organisation links, specifically for loneliness that you may find useful.

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mrs Ellie Lindsay OBEmrs Ellie Lindsay OBE

Winter tips

As we approach shorter, darker days and more time is spent indoors it can impact on one’s health and wellbeing negatively. For example, some people who live alone may experience a deep sense of loneliness during the cold winter months leading to uncertainty, anxiety and lack of self-worth and motivation. Especially as there is the additional challenge of restrictions put in place by government this winter to stop the spread of coronavirus, which could mean families and friends are kept apart and people living alone will have less human contact. Hence, it’s important to look after yourself and wrap up warmly, as the cold winter weather can be more harmful than you think, especially for the elderly or vulnerable.