Now that we are well into Lockdown 3.0, Home Instead Lewes District & Uckfield feel now is more important than ever to discuss loneliness and how best to prevent it. For the elderly or less mobile members of our community, the lockdown restrictions mean that many are continuing to be isolated from friends and family. By providing companionship to those in need we can make a huge difference to their health and wellbeing.
Why might someone feel lonely? Loneliness is caused by a number of reasons:
– Bereavement from losing a loved one
– Loss of mobility, not being able to get out the house, or not being able to do things you enjoy
– Mental or physical health issues
– Loss of social interaction due to the pandemic or not being physically able to go out and visit friends/family
– Social activities are too physically or mentally demanding when they occur, such as not having the energy to engage in an online class or video call.
If you feel lonely for a prolonged amount of time it has a detrimental effect on your health. For some, loneliness can be a repetitive circle and leads to mental health conditions such as depression or alcoholism. It can also cause decreased energy or appetite, insomnia, lack of focus and some studies even suggest that there may be a link between loneliness and an increased risk for developing dementia and Alzheimer’s. Demographically, the most common age group/gender for loneliness is men over the age of 60 as they are least likely to seek help.
How can you help someone who you think is feeling lonely? We would first suggest talking to them about how they are feeling. It can be difficult bringing this up in conversation but it’s important to ask them if they are in need of extra support.
If you are concerned about someone who is close to you, why not give us a call? We have many years’ experience and would be happy to advise and assist.
Our compassionate CAREGivers can help with a huge range of activities to meet your needs or a loved one’s. They can help with simple tasks, such as providing company at home to assisting with the challenges of modern life such as paying bills online or using a mobile phone. What else can we help with?
– Giving a hand with the weekly shop
– Accompanying to doctor’s appointment or facilitating safe social activities, guided by current restrictions
– Cooking meals and food preparation
– Supporting and assisting with hobbies
– Household tasks and chores such as cleaning and general upkeep
– Pet care
– Plus much more!
We understand that accepting a new companion into your home can be a little bit daunting but our CAREGivers have been well trained and will be matched to suit your personality and needs.
All our CAREGivers are fully reference checked as well as checked for any criminal convictions via the Government’s Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).We also continually assess how you/your loved one are getting on to ensure goals are being achieved and needs are being met.
Throughout the pandemic our care has continued and we can assure you that our visits will continue with safety at the forefront no matter what. Our companionship CAREGiver’s are kind and friendly, with excellent people skills. We only select those whom we would like to be our companion, and our CAREGiver’s have all chosen a career in caring for a good reason – they enjoy being with people and looking after them. What’s more, caring for others comes naturally to them!
At Home Instead Lewes District & Uckfield we accompany many families through a tough journey of their ageing loved one’s deteriorating physical and/or mental health. Our mission is to make this journey as easy as possible for everyone and to support our Clients to thrive in the comfort of their own homes. If you would like to speak to someone at Home Instead Lewes District & Uckfield please don’t hesitate to get in touch – you can call Alison on 01273 437040 or email Alison.Scutt@homeinstead.co.uk.