Last Updated: December 6, 2024
Many people spend Christmas alone. But in the wake of the pandemic, more people than usual may find themselves in this position. Whether someone is living in care, receiving care at home, or living independently at home, there are many ways to help your loved ones cope with loneliness.
If loneliness persists or becomes severe, it can increase the risk of physical conditions such as dementia and mental health conditions such as stress, anxiety, low mood or depression. In this blog, Sam Ward OBE, Deputy CEO of Royal Voluntary Service, suggests some simple and easy ways to help combat loneliness and reduce the negative impacts of social isolation.
1. Facilitate Connections
One of the best and perhaps most obvious ways to tackle loneliness is to connect with others, but this can be easier said than done. Talking to someone can really help with feelings of loneliness. A familiar voice or seeing a friendly face can also make us feel less isolated. Regular chats with friends and family can help to combat loneliness.
It’s not always possible to connect in-person with loved ones whenever feelings of loneliness strike. Those struggling to maintain or build social connections are being encouraged to seek support from the NHS and Care Volunteer Responders programme, over 35,000 are standing by to support. The programme’s Check In and Chat service supports mental health and wellbeing through regularly friendly and encouraging phone calls. It’s free and easy to receive calls.
Members of the public can request support from volunteers, either for themselves or someone they know (with that person’s permission). You can request a call by calling 0808 196 3646 (8am to 8pm, 7 days a week). You can also visit nhscarevolunteerresponders.org where you will find further information.
2. Keep them busy
Engaging in activities one enjoys can help stop one from focusing on their loneliness, which can improve their wellbeing. Spending time experimenting with a new hobby, reading a book, completing a jigsaw, crafting, exercising, and knitting are great ways to boost moods and occupy the mind.
Encouraging older family members to focus on a hobby or interest helps create a sense of purpose and meaning and can help to diminish feelings of loneliness and isolation.
There is a range free online of resources and services, available that can help such as Royal Voluntary Service’s Virtual Village Hall, an online activity hub designed to help people stay physically and mentally active. This festive season, there is an exciting lineup of fun, free, activities to try at home including card, wreath, and eco-friendly decorations making; cooking and baking; musical performances and singalongs; and exercise and dance classes with a festive twist. Learn more here: virtualvillagehall.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk
3. Encourage time spent outdoors
It’s easy to feel confined within the same four walls every day. Spending time in fresh air and open spaces not only positively impacts mood but also provides opportunities to meet new people. Walking around the neighbourhood, exploring different routes, and discovering new places can be a stimulating experience.
Physical activity is great for supporting overall health and mental wellbeing. Staying warm is important in helping keep your body strong and able to fight off viruses and infections, before heading outside older people should wear layers of cosy clothes to trap warmth and wear shoes with good grip to prevent trips and falls.
It can be difficult knowing your loved ones are going through a hard time and experiencing loneliness. But there are ways to combat these feelings, to discover other support services in your local area, visit nhscarevolunteerresponders.org or royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk for more information.
