Protecting loved ones from loneliness this Christmas season
It’s no secret that the festive period, while a time of celebration and togetherness for many, can often be an incredibly isolating time for elderly, vulnerable members of the community. In fact, research shows that Christmas is the loneliest time of year for over 1.5 million elderly people*, which has only been amplified since the pandemic and resulting lockdowns. And while the world has somewhat returned to ‘normal’, those who remain high risk and vulnerable to rising flu and Covid numbers are forced to consider how best to prevent becoming infected over the winter season.
The feeling of isolation often leads to many more complex health issues but it’s not always easy to spot the signs. And with the latest figures showing that by 2025, the number of over 50s experiencing loneliness is set to reach two million**, it has never been more important to protect loved ones from feelings of loneliness. Here, Dan Archer, Managing Director of local in-home care provider Visiting Angels, gives advice on how to recognise the signs of loneliness and how to support loved ones over the festive period.
Loneliness comes in all shapes and sizes
With rising worries over another spike in infection and illness rates over the Christmas period, there are some people who are nervous about spending time with elderly loved ones. So now is the time to ensure vaccinations are up to date so you can feel confident in welcoming your loved ones round for the festive period. If it makes you feel more comfortable, think about all the precautions we took coming out of lockdown - stock up on a few face masks and keep the windows open when visiting in groups.
If your parent or grandparent says they are receiving regular visits from friends, check to see if this is true. It’s really common for those in isolation to not wish to burden their friends and family by saying they are fine. Perhaps their nearest and dearest are no longer around or they’ve recently lost access to their own mode of transport – whatever the situation, no elderly loved one wants to add pressure on you over the festive season.
A great way to ascertain whether or not a loved one feels lonely is by tackling the issue head on. Make regular phone calls, around 10 minutes a day, asking them how they are. By keeping in regular contact, it will help you to spot the signs of a downturn in health or general demeanour and determine if they require extra support.
Tips to support isolated loved ones
Call regularly and visit when you can, if it’s safe to do so – of course, you can always communicate virtually
Ask questions about your loved one’s daily activity and suggest ways that will keep them socialising with people around them
Suggest social activities for them to get involved with - get Googling to find out what’s available in their area or put your postcode into the Age UK local services search
Recognise signs before they escalate and reach out for professional help if you have any concerns
Support in making lifestyle changes to help improve your loved one’s quality of life.
‘Treating’ loneliness
Confirming worries that your loved one may be feeling lonely is never a welcome conversation. But the good news is they have you. If regular visits aren’t always manageable, continue with phone calls and plan a series of visits that will give your loved ones something to look forward to. It’s important to understand that isolation often leads to other problems. Loneliness can cause a lack of motivation, so there is always a risk that they may lose interest in looking after themselves and leaving the house altogether. If left unacknowledged, a gradual lack of motivation can lead to serious issues with mental health, as this ‘hopeless’ behaviour can promote a cycle of disheartenment.
Speak with your GP or local care service about the option for an in-home care plan. If you’re not able to visit your loved ones personally, regular visits from an experienced care professional could give them comfort, alongside tackling two other problems: providing all-important human contact from someone who has your loved one’s best interests at heart and having someone who can support with everyday tasks around the home.
Dan summarises, “It’s also crucial to look after yourself too. Try not to feel guilty for any feelings of loneliness your loved ones might be experiencing - just do your best to support them. At Visiting Angels, we’re passionate about instilling a sense of confidence and independence in our clients. We nurture the relationship between carer and client to a stage where they feel a sense of companionship, which ultimately benefits their mental health. Our care givers will be out visiting their clients as usual on Christmas Day, so they will be there to offer support and companionship at this special time of year.
“Caring for those who are unable to join their loved ones at Christmas is about encouragement, interacting with people who care and ensuring they feel supported and loved.”
*Age UK, 2019, Christmas is the loneliest time of the year for over 1.5 million older people, with those who have lost a loved one struggling the most
**Age UK: All the Lonely People 2018
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