Social isolation amongst the elderly population

[Iloveteaandcake]

Anyone else on here struck by the number of elderly patients in hospitals that are completely isolated and have absolutely no family or friends to call on them after discharge?
Makes me feel quite sad
Why does this happen?

There are people of all ages who have no friends or family, I think it's always sad. With the elderly, they could have had no brothers or sisters, their parents have died, they may not have been married or had children and all their friends and colleagues are old and dying. If they don't socialise then they will be alone. Some people just don't want to meet new people, go to clubs, have any interest in the Church or want to speak to their neighbours.

I see this a fair bit (OT) Sometimes it's by choice

There are a fair few resources around here if people want to engage - link workers, befriending, day centres etc but some people just say it's not for them.

Fair enough but I'd go crazy without adult conversation each day.

There are very few people (around here) who are isolated against their wishes iykwim.