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The coronavirus retains its firm grip on society and after weeks of lockdown and social isolation to reduce transmission, the feeling of loneliness and concerns for people’s mental health have spread across the UK.
In this modern era there are numerous ways to engage with each other without face-to-face contact using technology, such as social media, smartphones, tablets and other tools supporting video and voice calls.
While the younger generations are well versed in and connect with others using technology on a daily basis to cope with self-isolation, the older population is not. Many older people’s only social contact takes place outside of the home such as at day care centres, clubs, religious congregation and other communal activities. This puts them at an increased risk of loneliness and mental health problems, such as depression.
The elderly across the UK who do not have close family or friends are already isolated and could be at even more risk as they are more reliant on social care and voluntary services. Having to stay at home has meant that many older people can no longer engage in activities that bring meaning and purpose to their life.
People vulnerable to coronavirus, and older people in particular, have been advised to have food and supplies delivered and keep going outside to an absolute minimum. However, many older people living at home need care and may already struggle to get out and about.
Loneliness and the isolation of social distancing can have a serious impact on people’s overall health, including both mental and physical health. Older people are particularly vulnerable. Research shows that feeling alone and isolated can be as harmful as being obese or smoking 15 cigarettes a day and increase the risk of heart disease. Older people are in general less likely to reach out if they feel alone and ask for help as they have too much pride.
In times like this, it is therefore increasingly important to use the tools available to keep social contact and stay connected to loved ones. Older people are in general less technology-literate which makes it vital for people with the knowledge to reach out and mitigate the potentially harmful consequences.
Below we have compiled a list you may find helpful of things that you or a loved one could do to cope with isolation and ways to increase social activity.
Ways to help you cope with isolation and combat loneliness
In an era where technology is widely available, and the internet is full of information and entertainment, there are a number of ways to keep active, both socially and mentally. Keeping in touch with family and friends is key, but you can also take the opportunity to learn a new skill or pick up a new creative hobby.
Stay connected to friends and family
Most people would struggle if they had to be alone 24 hours a day, so if you have an elderly loved one it is important to stay in touch.
- Scheduling in daily phone calls is a good way to keep in touch and gives your loved one something to look forward to each day and makes them feel valued.
- Setting up a laptop, tablet or similar to arrange video calls enables you to spend time with each other. It gives your elderly loved one an opportunity to see you and perhaps their grandchildren over lunch, afternoon tea or dinner or join other social events. Options include Skype, Facebook Portal, Google’s Nest Hub Max and Amazon’s Echo Show.
- Write a letter and include some pictures you have taken of activities or drawings to keep your loved one up to date.
- Learning how to use the internet is a good way to stay connected to friends and family. Learn My Way has free courses where you can learn digital skills.
If you do not have close family or friends to talk to regularly, give your phone number to friendly neighbours for social contact.
Keep body and mind active
Just because there are lockdown restrictions in place does not mean you have to do nothing. Take the time to do things around the house that you enjoy and see it as an opportunity to finally get going with that hobby or project you have been thinking about starting.
- If you have a garden, this a great time to do some gardening and get it in shape for summer. Gardening is satisfying and productive, a way to exercise and keeps your mind positive and set on a goal.
- Getting lost in a good book, or several, is a great way to pass time and escape reality for a while to help you relax and reduce stress, particularly in times like this. Reading educational or history books could be a good way to spark a new interest or deepen your knowledge about a topic. Reading a book in bed can also help you fall asleep.
- Arts and crafts can help you keep busy and use your mind creatively. Crafting can bring a feeling of happiness and purpose and can take you back to happy memories from when you were a child. Completing a project also gives a feeling of accomplishment.
- Even if you are unable to go physically go outside, the internet enables you to go on virtual trips. Many museums offer online tours, including the British Museum.
Limit the amount of news you consume
To protect your mental health during the lockdown it is advisable to avoid reading, listening and watching the news too much. The fear of being out of control can take a toll on your mental health and increase anxiety levels.
Do however keep up to date with the latest government and NHS advice to stay informed.
Keep track of food and medicine
A major concern for many older people in isolation is the access to food, medicine and other essential supplies.Some fear going to supermarkets at all due to the close contact and changing public health advice about spreading coronavirus.
Call your GP or pharmacy to make sure you have an adequate supply of medicine. Many pharmacies are able to fill prescriptions by mail order and many people in the community are volunteering to deliver these to people in isolation.
There are now shopping hours set aside for key workers and elderly people in most supermarkets. If you don’t want to or can’t make use of these, use the supermarkets’ online delivery service to get food supplies. Alternatively, ask friends, family and neighbours to shop for you and deliver to your door.
Help lines and support during the coronavirus lockdown
There are a range of services available for older people who are isolated and feel alone.
Contact your local council to find out what services and support groups are available to offer help. These can include community centres, churches, charities and volunteer groups.
Silver Line is a free service and confidential service offering information, friendship and advice, open 24 hours a day. Call 0800 708 090 to get in touch.
Age UK has set up a Friendly phone calls service to help elderly in isolation. Call 01823 345610 to register.
If you think you have symptoms of coronavirus call NHS 111.