The Power of Human Connection: Combating Loneliness in the Elderly through Companionship

“We can all fight against loneliness by engaging in random acts of kindness.”-Gail Honeyman

What is loneliness?

Loneliness is the feeling and emotion associated with being alone. This feeling can be experienced by anyone at any time and often arises from a lack of companionship. Feelings of loneliness can arise from a sense of isolation and a desire for a greater connection with others. This feeling can become heightened as we age.

How many older people experience loneliness?

According to Age UK, 3.6 million older people currently live alone and 2.5 million of those are over the age of 75. Age UK further reports that a staggering 1.4 million older people are thought to be experiencing loneliness with a further 1.9 million stating that they often feel ignored and invisible in their day to day life. These figures are sadly predicted to rise.

Factors increasing loneliness in the older population

As we age, there are a number of factors that can contribute to the risk of loneliness and isolation and these include:

• Living alone

• Leaving work

• Reduced mobility

• Lack of transportation

• Not being able to get out of the house without help

• Living in rural areas with limited social facilities

• Loss of spouse or partner and friends

• Declining physical health

• Loss of hearing

• Family having demanding jobs and their own families

Health implications of loneliness

The effects of loneliness on individuals should not be underestimated and there is a clinical need to combat loneliness in the elderly community.

The associated health implications are well documented and if profound and long lasting, it is thought to increase the risk of dementia and a variety of both mental and physical conditions. These include depression, anxiety, stress and an increased risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. According to Age UK, loneliness can be as detrimental to our health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

What is companionship and what does a companionship provider do?

Companionship involves enjoying the company of others. As companionship providers we are able to build meaningful relationships, support emotional wellbeing and provide a reassuring presence. Through companionship we are able to enrich the lives of others by providing company and increasing social connections.

The role of a companionship provider is incredibly diverse and ranges from sharing life experiences and talking about your day over a cup of tea, through to running errands, helping with shopping, assisting with gardening and household chores, wellbeing checks and arranging trips out. There is not a one-size-fits-all approach and no two days are ever the same.

The benefits of companionship

Companionship enhances feelings of happiness and wellbeing, decreases loneliness and social isolation and helps people to remain independent both inside and outside their own homes.

Employing the help of a companionship provider has been shown to have the following benefits:

• Helping people to stay connected with friends and the community

• Keeping people engaged both socially, emotionally and mentally

• Fostering emotional support

• Promoting independence

• Increasing quality of life

• Providing personalised and individualised support

• Helping with basic needs

• Reducing Isolation

• Respite for family members

• Providing extra help with daily activities

• Prevention of cognitive decline

• Increasing sense of belonging

• Increasing confidence

How we can help

As a former nurse, witnessing how many people are experiencing loneliness and understanding its profound implications inspired me to take action.

At Befriending Betty we are able to assist with supporting you or a loved with activities that due to age or deteriorating health, may have become more difficult to do alone. We are able to help you or a loved one navigate the challenges we all face as we get older and live your life to the fullest.

There is nothing more rewarding than seeing your clients' faces light up as they share life adventures, reconnect with old friends or enjoy a change of surroundings for the first time all week. One of our primary goals is to make a difference to our clients lives and we are here to brighten up your day and make life that 'little bit more fun'.

Get in Touch

If you would like to find out more about how Befriending Betty can help you or a loved one please give us a call on 07585531990.