Loneliness is a major issue when we get older. And it only gets worse if we refuse to speak up or seek companionship when we find ourselves isolated. But there is an alternative. Read on to find out how you can banish loneliness from your life or help someone you know
The death of a partner, decline in physical health or distance from family members can make anyone feel isolated – but it doesn’t have to be that way. Churchill Retirement Living‘s Leave Loneliness Behind campaign, fronted by Dame Esther Rantzen, aims to remove the stigma of admitting to being lonely and help everyone enjoy a happy, active retirement.
Our study of 1,000 retirement-age people revealed that over half felt there was a stigma attached to saying they felt lonely – whilst one in four was ‘too ashamed’ to admit their feelings to others. Loneliness is not the same as being alone. Many of us enjoy our own company and choose to live on our own but are not necessarily lonely.
Those who have experienced loneliness know that feeling of not belonging, of feeling isolated and invisible. Chronic loneliness can have serious consequences for both mental and physical health too. Letting go of the fear of being judged is the first step towards conquering it.
Churchill Retirement Living wants to help break down the mental barriers that loneliness can create.
Here are some practical ideas to help anyone who is feeling alone to change their mindset and lifestyle before loneliness takes a grip.
Look for Like-minded People or Expand Your Horizons
Seek out and join up with other people who share your interests. Take some time to think about how you would enjoy spending your time and what things you would enjoy doing with others. This could be anything! There are clubs and groups for just about everything, from bridge to book clubs, singing, dancing, walking or model making. This could be your opportunity to learn something new and join your local U3A.
Scour the noticeboards of your local post office and supermarket. Have a look in the local library. Your local newspapers will be full of advertisements of groups inviting you to join in a variety of activities. Here are a few thoughts:
• Voluntary organisations or rotary clubs
• Night classes – such as computer courses or life drawing
• Exercise classes or walking groups – many leisure centres and community hubs have classes especially for older attendees
• Gardening groups
• Meditation classes
Make a more permanent change
Living alongside like-minded neighbours provides reassurance that there is always someone nearby to chat with or share a pot of tea. It is not necessarily one sided either. Remember you have a lot to give too and help and advice to share. The regular group events at Churchill Retirement Living Lodges enable property owners to take part in a ready-made social life if they wish.
You don’t have to take our word for it. Make an appointment to visit one of our Lodges and speak to our owners and Lodge Managers, who will be able to tell you more about living in a Churchill retirement development. Give us a call on 0800 458 1856.
To find out more about our Leave Loneliness Behind campaign click here
