Avoiding winter loneliness with Companionship Care

For many, the incoming winter months bring joy as we gather in preparation for festive celebrations. However, for many older and vulnerable people, winter can be a cold and isolating time. Loneliness can have a huge impact on both physical and mental health. According to research, loneliness can be as harmful to our health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, or more damaging than obesity (Source: Age UK). Feelings of loneliness has been associated with depression, sleep problems, impaired cognitive health, heightened vascular resistance, hypertension, psychological stress, and mental health problems.

Loneliness and isolation often disproportionately affect the older generation, as more than 2 million (nearly half) of all people aged 75 and over live alone. Furthermore, more than a million older people say they go for over a month without speaking to a friend, neighbour, or family member. Feelings of isolation can occur for a number of reasons, whether due to the death of a spouse, family member, or even mobility issues preventing the older person leaving the house. In an age where technology has become pivotal for maintaining communication, many elderly people don’t have access to the internet to keep in touch with loved ones, which can be even more detrimental.

Some tips to prevent isolation and loneliness include the following:

• Pop in on elderly neighbours to share a cup of tea. Even if you haven't really spoken before, now is the perfect time to introduce yourself.
• Take your loved ones out to local free events to socialise with friends.
• Check if the curtains or blinds have moved over the last few days, if not, you might just want to knock at the door to say hello and check they’re okay. Don’t forget to give them enough time to get to the door, it could take them a while.
• Keep their driveways clear from snow so that they can get out, and others can get in more easily.

Here at Right at Home Stevenage, Letchworth and Hitchin, we also offer companionship services to older and vulnerable people, to try and tackle these feelings of loneliness. We recognise the value of having a friendly face to talk to. Whether we are encouraging our clients to get back to the activities they enjoy or taking up new interests, we want to help boost confidence and enable independence. We can also help with light household duties, food preparation and help with everyday tasks. Companionship care is also a great way to offer respite for family Caregivers.

Companionship is a fantastic way to combat loneliness in the older generation. If you know someone who you believe is lonely and would benefit from our care, please get in touch with us today.