Helping older people combat loneliness

Photo: Anchor Hanover

Combating loneliness and helping overcome isolation with regular community activities

Ensuring good mental health and wellbeing is as important in older age as it is at any other time of life, particularly as the UK’s population continues to age rapidly.

According to research from Age UK, the number of over-50s experiencing loneliness is expected to grow and is set to reach two million people by 2025/6.

Such a significant rise is also felt in society as a whole, with an increased impact on health and wellbeing services.

Ford Gardens, Rochdale run by Anchor Hanover, is one of the Greater Manchester estates giving residents and their relatives help to combat loneliness in the area. This includes running events to engage older people in the community who may not have the same support and services in place that can be found in a social housing environment.

Nick Sedgwick, Director of Service Development: “Nobody should feel alone and believe they have no one to turn to. We want older people to live in strong vibrant communities, which is why we are always encouraging our residents to be good neighbours and to take part in activities that make them feel connected with those around them.

“While the breadth and type of activities we host may vary, the underlying aim for us is to build a positive and welcoming atmosphere. We also value engagement from everyone in the local community, so it’s great that we’re able to accommodate different groups who want to take part in events we organise and who host a range of activities of their own.”

Over the years Anchor Hanover has refined its approach to combatting loneliness and helping overcome isolation by bringing regular community based and social activities across its locations.

Some of the more popular initiatives include good neighbour schemes, exercise classes, arts and crafts and IT lessons. Depending upon the location the sessions may be run by local staff community volunteers or other residents.