Bupa care homes help to tackle loneliness

Bupa care homes will be hosting tea parties all over the UK in a drive to tackle loneliness among the elderly.

Isolation and loneliness can be a real problem for the elderly, and the latest research from Age UK shows that nearly 1m of over 65-year-olds only see their family and close friends once a month or less.

Between 12-18 March, Communi-tea Week will be inviting older people who live on their own into their local Bupa care home for fun and informative tea-related activities.

Siobhan Drane, Bupa’s community affairs manager said: 'Communi-tea Week is a great way of highlighting the support networks that are available in local communities, as well as raising awareness of the serious issues facing older people today.'

'We’re urging everyone to put on the kettle and contact someone they think may need their spirits lifting – a cup of tea is the perfect way to reach out and make a difference.'

This year, the theme is making tea cosies, either knitted or designed on paper. Five designs will be selected to go through to the final and there will be a public vote on Tetley’s Facebook page.

Altogether, over 300 care homes will be hosting special afternoon tea parties. As well as organising tea-related social events, from tea-tasting sessions to tea dances, Bupa care homes are urging others to help by inviting older people living on their own to join them for a cuppa, whether it be a neighbour or friend. The week is being sponsored by Tetley and McVities.

Anyone wishing to attend an event, or host their own event in Communi-tea Week, can get information about local events and event ideas by contacting the Communi-tea Week hotline on 0845 600 4622 or emailing communi-teaweek@bupa.com.