Isolation among older generations is alarmingly common. Even before Coronavirus struck as many as 40% of older people still living in their own homes reported feelings of loneliness and boredom, and Lockdown restrictions have only made things worse.

Sadly the effects of isolation are felt not only on an emotional level, but they also have a physical impact.

Numerous health problems are exacerbated by isolation and loneliness, including an increased risk of falls, worsening of long term health conditions, dementia, and re-admission to hospital.

Residential care homes can play an important part in banishing loneliness and isolation

The need to help older people remain socially involved and mentally engaged therefore needs to be a priority in care.

By removing many of the barriers experienced by people struggling to cope on their own at home, residential care homes are in a unique position to help motivate and engage older people by helping their residents make new friends, reconnect with hobbies they enjoyed previously, and experience something new.

Providing a stimulating atmosphere with people to talk to, activities and events to enjoy, and an accessible environment and facilities, with physical support on hand as needed, care homes are well placed to help their residents make the most of the opportunities available.

Important ways care homes can help older people avoid isolation

• Promote a sense of purpose

Older people with a sense of purpose in their everyday activities are less likely to experience depression and succumb to the negative effects of social isolation. Helping people remain active and maintain a regular daily routine can help them maintain their sense of purpose and keep them from becoming isolated and lonely.

• Address incontinence issues

For obvious reasons, anyone experiencing incontinence may be hesitant to go out or become involved in activities and risks becoming isolated. Addressing the issue and sorting out medication and supplies can help reassure them and help restore confidence and self-esteem.

• Facilitate hearing and vision tests 

Problems with hearing or eyesight can lead to people starting to avoid social situations through simple embarrassment or difficulties communicating. Facilitating  regular hearing and eyesight checks can be a game changer. A new pair of glasses or a hearing aid  may be all that’s needed to improve social health.

• Encourage dining with others

Eating with others is inherently social. Encouraging older people to share a meal with others gives lots of opportunities for chat and social engagement, but also has the added benefit of promoting better nutrition which can be easily neglected by older people living alone.

• Provide sociable and stimulating activities

If people are not able to get out and about in the community as they used to, loss of confidence can quickly set in. Providing enjoyable activities on hand, accessible equipment and easy opportunities to socialise, care homes can help restore people’s motivation and make a huge difference in helping maintain social connections and a healthy sense of independence.

Here at Pingley Court we devise a whole range of innovative and stimulating activities to help our residents enjoy their days, socialise and make friends. 

So whether it’s enjoying one of our many musical activities, exercising in one of our keep fit classes, taking part in various crafts and games or enjoying our visiting entertainers there is always something going on to stimulate and engage!

Pingley Court is a care home in the Woodseats area of Sheffield providing residential, respite, and day care of the highest quality, including for people living with dementia. Give us a call on 0114 4782095 to find out more about all we have to offer!