Guide to Staying Socially Connected

Ireland might be the loneliest country in Europe. Experts believe loneliness is fast becoming one of the biggest health challenges for our ageing population. 

So, what steps can you take to combat feelings of isolation and loneliness? We’ve compiled a list of practical suggestions. Read on for some helpful tips designed to keep loneliness at bay. 

Causes and Challenges of Loneliness

Triggers of loneliness can vary from person to person. Factors like bereavement, illness, and a sudden change in personal circumstances can all play their part. Many older adults experience social isolation and loneliness due to these challenges.

In Ireland, more than a third of people live in rural areas. That means a significant percentage of the population is less likely to have regular physical contact with others. This can sometimes make combating loneliness more of a challenge. 

What You Can Do to Combat Loneliness 

Many health professionals believe that the key drivers to help beat loneliness are these:  

• Connecting with others by reaching out and developing relationships.

• Staying mentally and physically active by finding an activity that works for you. 

• Adopting a pet if you have the means and commitment to provide proper care for one.

• Learning something new, such as a craft or even how to dance. 

• Do something for the benefit of others, like becoming a volunteer for a charity. 

Creating meaningful connections can also help older people stay engaged and reduce the risk of dementia.

1. Building Stronger Connections

Online forums can promote social interaction and are a fantastic way to feel part of a community. You can do everything from playing games with others to sharing life experiences.  

These social media platforms can make you feel less lonely when you connect with people and have an active social life.    

There are plenty of apps out there that keep us visually and socially connected with family and friends at the touch of a button.  

Traditional Ways to Stay Social

If you don’t have online access, you’re not alone. 6% of households in Ireland have no access to the internet at home. Many believe they either don’t need it or are afraid they lack the skills to use it. 

Elaborate technology is not always necessary to stay connected. Simply speaking to someone on the telephone and hearing their voice can be as beneficial as engaging online. 

If you can, set up a regular call with friends and family members. Alternatively, you can write letters, share photos or drawings, and share your thoughts with them as a pen pal.  

Getting Started with Technology

It’s never too late to learn, however. Technology has moved on and become more and more user-friendly. You could make a resolution to get technology-savvy with one of the Irish government’s free online courses on computer basics.  

2. Staying Active for Wellness

The direct correlation between physical and mental well-being is as old as time immemorial. It’s the quality of exercise we take that matters, rather than the quantity. If you can, make new friends and build strong social connections.  

If you have mobility issues, shift your focus to what you can do rather than what you can’t. Keeping a written diary of daily activities can make you feel less lonely and let your physical achievements inspire you. 

Simple Activities for Staying Fit

It is essential to make regular exercise part of our everyday lifestyle. Again, this needs to match our own personal capabilities. Here are a few simple ways to get the blood flowing:  

1. Climbing the stairs several times a day to your favourite music 

2. Using cans of tinned food as weights to strengthen arms and legs 

3. Dancing with a friend  

4. Taking the dog for a twice-weekly extra-long walk 

5. Joining an aqua aerobics class 

6. Stretching exercises to reduce pain and stiffness 

If you’re planning to start a new exercise routine, keep it simple so that you’re more likely to stick with it. Remember to stay hydrated. 

Mindfulness techniques can also enhance your sense of connection and belonging. You can practice mindfulness anytime, anywhere, and even combine it with physical activities such as yoga or stretching. 

3. Finding Joy in New Skills

Learning becomes more enjoyable when it connects us with others. We become part of a group of people with a shared skill.  

If there are opportunities to learn new skills or activities available to you locally, you should seize them. Here are some ideas to overcome loneliness:

1. Singing in a choir

2. Creating a piece of art

3. Learning how to speak another language

4. Joining or starting a book club (local or online) 

5. Playing bridge

6. Participating in bingo or quiz nights

Connections lead to other connections. Once you set the ball rolling, you’ll quickly discover other activities and people with common interests.  

4. Supporting Others to Stay Connected

It’s a scientific fact that helping other people makes us feel better about ourselves. That’s because when we do so, we trigger the release of oxytocin, which boosts our mood.  

The higher the level of oxytocin, the more we want to help others. This boosts self-esteem and strengthens our social ties. It increases our sense of belonging in a wider society. 

Even offering a smile to a stranger in the street can brighten their day and make us feel like we've contributed in a small way to the greater good. Volunteering for a charity is also a useful place to start.    

How Comfort Keepers Helps Fight Loneliness 

Our clients tell us that Comfort Keepers has really helped them stay socially connected. 

They look forward to regular visits from our homecare team, even if it’s just for a friendly chat. Our healthcare assistants are always available to offer advice on combating loneliness and social isolation. 

If you’d like to find out how Comfort Keepers could help you or a loved one, get in touch with us now.