No one likes to feel lonely or isolated, but for many seniors, it’s a feeling they know all too well. As we get older, children move away, we lose touch with friends, and have difficulty getting out of the house to socialise. All of these things contribute to isolation and loneliness in the elderly.
Results of Isolation
By installing a wet room or fitting a stair lift, home adaptations can increase your independence and help regain confidence at home. However, did you know that elderly people who live alone and have little social contact with others. are more likely to experience falls. Older people are especially vulnerable to loneliness and social isolation – this can have a serious effect on health. Hundreds of thousands of elderly people throughout the UK are lonely and cut off.
People can become socially isolated for a variety of reasons. The lack of mobility as a result of disability or illness, or simply the restrictions a house can have on a person’s ability to complete day to day tasks. Whatever the cause, it’s shockingly easy to be left feeling alone and vulnerable, which can lead to depression and a serious decline in physical health and wellbeing.
Support
Home adaptations plays a small part needed to help loved ones live their life’s to the full. Integrating people back into society and feeling valued is often complex and at times frustrating. Due to a lack of transport, social funding and organised group activities. Looking for support and advice can feel challenging. However, In the North East there are many local organisations and charities who can help:
Age UK– Has regional sites highlighting social activities near you, friendship centres, local older people’s forums and friends of Age UK.
Chain Reaction (Newcastle) – Helping to prevent people feeling lonely and introduction to local support groups.
Finally
Loneliness is a social issue that should be addressed by everyone: governments, social institutions, the medical community etc. We all have a role to play in ensuring our elders don’t become socially isolated or lonely.
