The epidemic of loneliness amongst older people has been covered everywhere recently. You may have seen the recent dedicated Channel 4 News segment calling for loneliness to be viewed as a public health concern. You will have almost definitely seen the moving John Lewis Christmas advert ‘Man on the Moon’ depicting the deep isolation many of us can slip into as we age, through no fault of our own.
Loneliness is not simply about being alone. It also affects our mental and physical wellbeing.
Half of older people say the television is their main company (Age UK research, 2014). In East Edinburgh, there are over 12,000 people over 65. It’s not hard to see that this is a major problem, and something we have the power to combat by bringing people together in the community.
We are lucky in East Edinburgh that there is already a strong sense of community. LOOPs (Local Opportunities for Older People) want to help over 65s make the most of this so they can live healthier and happier lives.
LOOPs runs a phone line, part of a city-wide initiative to help older people in Edinburgh ‘get oot the hoose.’ If you are aged over 65, or a family member, carer or healthcare professional of someone who is, call us for free to speak to one of our friendly volunteers about activities and services in your local area. We provide a professional service, bringing together contacts and information tailored to your unique interests and requirements.
How do we help those in need?
We received a call from a 77 year old lady who has a diagnosis of dementia and lives with her son. Although her daughter visits daily, she is often left alone while everyone is at work and is unable to go out unaccompanied. How could she become less socially isolated?
LOOPs had the answer. We contacted a number of services for adults with dementia that could provide the care and enjoyable companionship in a safe environment that our client needed.
We are also involved in hosting events across the city that bring people together, such as the recent Sew & Snack craft afternoon held at the National Gallery of Scotland (see below).
We are relatively new and seek to reach out to as many people as possible. Our website has further information and includes a blog.
The best way to contact us is by phoning 0131 603 8311. Our phone line is open on weekdays.
Email enquiries can be sent to loops@volunteeredinburgh.org.uk.
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