Happy New Year to you all. 2021 another year bringing us challenges but as some of my clients have said “light at the end of the tunnel” in regard to Covid vaccinations that are now rolling out. One of the issues that we deal with a lot is ‘loneliness’. We receive many referrals relating to loneliness and social isolation, not just since the arrival of the pandemic and not just older people living alone. It is one of our roles to encourage, empower and motivate clients to bring about change in their general health and wellbeing. A quote I recently came across is from the Dalai Lama “happiness is not something ready-made; it comes from your own actions”. Loneliness brings about unhappiness (and of course impacts on your mental and physical health). So what can we all do to keep the loneliness at bay and help others who are lonely? Think about what you enjoy, can you still enjoy these interests. Can you plan to start or reconnect with these interests when Covid restrictions are relaxed. If not, think about alternatives. How about thinking about volunteering when and if you can. What about starting a ‘Happiness Journal’, writing a letter, reconnecting with old friends, move a little more, what are you grateful for (writing down 3 things each day can change our mindset). When it comes to helping others………be kind, non judgemental, spare time for a chat, look out for those vulnerable neighbours, drop a note through the door, wave and chat through the window, post someone a cheery card. In May last year we had a socially distanced VE day street party organised by one of our older residents. She took it upon herself to knock on everyones door in the street, offering up her idea and we all had a fantastic time. She lives alone, she has long term health conditions, mobility issues, she is 80, she is lonely but SHE brought us all together – bunting, food, music, fizzy stuff and she even organised the brilliant sunshine! Call us, talk to us. We want to help. We can help. Until next time, stay safe and well. Carol |