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Elderly parents

Loneliness

5 replies

littlebillie · 22/06/2018 07:09

My DF dies two years ago this weekend, my DM is very lonely. My DB and I get to see her at the weekends but it's not enough. Any ideas on how I can improve her life and help to be less lonely

OP posts:
rockcakesrock · 22/06/2018 09:38

How approachable is she about the reasons for feeling lonely. The solution will be very different and dependant on her outlook.

Does not know what is available in her area.
Physically or mentally unable to leave the house
Does not want to put the effort into finding activities
Thinks that other should come to her
Is shy and nervous in new situations.
Does not want to impose or be a nuisance.

Some areas have Red Cross, WVS or local charities who visit people who are unable to leave their house.
Local Libraries often have knitting or reading groups . They advertise Walks and meetings too
Lots of churches run coffee mornings, there she will meet all sorts of people and she might find out about doing some voluntary work.
U3A offer opportunities for people to get together
Local Authority websites have details of groups.

If she does not want to go out, she could maybe start a hobby, cross stitch, painting, jigsaw, Scrapbooking etc. I know this is not providing company, but it will occupy her mind and make the time go quicker. If she knits or crochet lots of charities want squares.

Finally maybe have a look at Gransnet. A lot of local Groups set up meetings. If she can get to East London, I belong to a lovely group where she will be very welcome. PM me if you want to know the details and I will be happy to take her along. There are only 5 of us all aged 65 plus.

littlebillie · 22/06/2018 13:40

Oh thank you we are in the north but thank you. It's more her mobility than her age. She used to be able to pop out on the bus but that has all stopped now. She is a reasonable woman and is sociable and I think if she ever goes into a home she will be fine. It's just what happens now and in the near future

OP posts:
sillyswimmer · 23/06/2018 16:49

AgeUk might be able to let you know of activities in her area. There's a AgeUK day centre near my Mom who will collect her and take her home afterwards. Is that something she'd enjoy?

My Mom is quite isolated and I've arranged for carers to go in once per day, for an hour, to help her but also to provide company and to sit and talk to her. I live 2 hours away so it's taken some pressure off me and Mom knows she's going to see at least one person per day.

thesandwich · 23/06/2018 16:53

Have a look on the council website- they often have services for older people, and also telephone befriending. Community transport might be an option. A carer could take her out shopping/ for coffee?

Pippylou · 23/06/2018 16:58

www.thesilverline.org.uk/

Where I live the Council are doing all sorts of wellbeing stuff...

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