Tackling the stigma of loneliness

This Loneliness Awareness Week (15^th – 21^st June), Age UK Wyvern is raising awareness of the issue of loneliness among older people, the stigma that’s often attached, and the services that are available to help.

Loneliness is a very normal human emotion, yet we often keep it to ourselves due to fear of shame, judgement or a wish not to burden others. Astonishingly, in a recent survey of over 65’s, 140,000 older people in the West Midlands said that they felt embarrassed about feeling lonely whilst 360,000 said they don’t want to burden friends and family by telling them they’re lonely₁.

A number of factors can contribute to feelings of isolation for this age group; giving up work, bereavement and decreased mobility all play a part.  We all have varying levels of social need. However, ultimately, we’re all biologically wired for social contact, and loneliness is a signal we need more.

Caroline Savage, Social Inclusion Service Manager at Age UK Wyvern, commented, “We offer as many positive, fun and varied activities in the community as possible, trying to make Herefordshire a great place for older people.  Dealing with loneliness is not the same for everyone and we offer a range of schemes in different locations”.

Initiatives like the Cookery Club held at Bromyard Methodist Church or the Sheds Together group at the Westington Works, Leominster and at Ledbury Rugby Football club offer the chance to get to know new people whilst learning new skills. Pop-up craft and DIY sessions occur throughout Herefordshire to reach people who can’t get to the regular locations.

Many older people feel isolated in an increasingly online world and the charity’s Digital Cafes aim to address this. They offer free advice on using a phone, laptop or similar in an informal setting, with an chance to enjoy refreshments  as well.

Age UK Wyvern’s Help at Home service, costing £21 per hour, provides a welcome regular visit and the chance to see a friendly face for many older people. The services on offer are varied, including housework and shopping, but among the most important is the opportunity to enjoy some companionship – perhaps a cup of tea and a chat, or a walk round the block with the security of knowing someone else is there. Carers can also use the service as a chance to have a break and a chance to socialise, whilst a Help at Home Assistant sits with their loved one for a couple of hours.

Being socially active and making a conscious effort to remain this way throughout your life can have a positive effect on your long-term mental and physical health – and could ultimately contribute to living better for longer.

For those who can, trying a new group sport or physical activity class, that can be done with others, is a great way to get involved with others - being physically active in this way can play a powerful role in reducing loneliness and improving overall wellbeing. Initiatives like our Pershore Allotment and our Worcester Walk & Walk, offer a chance to get physically active whilst meeting others alike.

The positive effect of social activity

• It can help individuals form new social connections through regular interactions and shared goals, such as winning a game or completing an exercise class
• It can create a sense of belonging, with being part of a team giving individuals a strong sense of identity and membership
• It requires use of social skills such as communication, cooperation and support which, over time, reduces social anxiety
• It boosts mood as physical activity releases endorphins and reduces stress levels
• It provides structure and routine which prevents prolonged isolation

₁Age UK analysis of wave 11 of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, scaled up to the England age 65+ population using ONS mid-year population estimates for 2024.