How To Manage And Stop Loneliness In Social Care

As people get older they can feel increasingly atomised, which can lead to feelings of social isolation, loneliness and the mental health consequences that follow. 

Whilst loneliness can affect people irrespective of age, it is a particular issue for many older people, with an Age UK study cited by the NHS suggesting that a million people over the age of 75 do not talk to a neighbour, friend or family member for a month or more.

However, care workers and home care services are in an ideal position to help tackle isolation, improve well-being, promote independence and improve their overall quality of life, in keeping with the core principles of social care.

There are several ways to help with loneliness, chief amongst which is being there, being a sympathetic ear and an encouraging voice to help build up people’s confidence to reach out, as well as facilitate community activities and visits with family and friends.

The most important step, albeit one that can take some time to get to the bottom of, is diagnosing the causes of social isolation, which can be complex and multifaceted.

Some people who relied on their job as part of their identity may find themselves lost without their job to define them and guide them through the day, whilst others may feel lonely as a result of children flying the nest and moving away from the area, as well as as a consequence of loss.

Moving into a new living arrangement, such as an assisted living setting can lead to loneliness if there is not enough effort made to ensure they can reach out and talk to other people.

Sometimes, learning new technology can help, as email, instant messaging and video chats can bridge the gaps that distance cannot, as well as find more information about other people in the area who may be similarly lonely.