A survey found that 35% of over-65s report spending more time on their own during the colder months. As it gets darker earlier and rains more often, it’s natural for many of us to spend more time in the house. For older people, this can become very isolating, particularly for those who live alone, have lost connections over time, or are retired. Loneliness can have a significant effect on people’s mental health, potentially leading to depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. No matter how small social interactions are, they can make emotional connections stronger and create a sense of belonging. Through volunteering and other ways to make friends, people can expand their social circles and stay connected with loved ones this winter.
Volunteering provides the chance to meet like-minded people, have memorable chats, and make new friends. Through volunteering in an area of work that you’re interested in and care about, you’ll also meet people with the same interests and passions, which sparks natural conversations. In addition to meeting others, volunteering can also allow people to:
- Build their confidence
- Fill their free time with something meaningful
- Improve their mental health and keep their mind active
- Stay active
- Learn new skills
With HandsOn London, you can find a volunteering opportunity in London that suits
you!
Do you have a hobby like drawing, walking, or yoga? If so, why not join a group or a club? Like volunteering, these activities enable you to meet others with similar interests, which naturally leads to effortless conversations. Seeing the same people at set dates and times can feel familiar and provide a sense of community.
Attending classes is another option for building new connections. As well as learning something new, such as playing an instrument or cooking recipes, you also meet other individuals in a supportive and encouraging environment. For those with limited mobility who struggle to leave the house, finding classes or clubs that take place online can be helpful.
One barrier some older people face is difficulty using technology. However, staying connected online is convenient and can significantly reduce loneliness. It’s important that loved ones can help them get to grips with how to use technology and warn them of potential dangers. There are also online courses out there that can help with this. Here are some examples of how the online world can be used to stay in contact:
● Video calls: Scheduling these regularly with friends and family through apps
like WhatsApp and Zoom is a great way to stay in touch. Face-to-face
interactions improve communication, as you can see non-verbal cues in facial
expressions and body language.
● Texts: Even just a quick text to check in can make a big difference.
● Social media: These platforms can be used to see what people are up to,
which can start conversations.
● Online activities: Virtual events or classes and online games allow you to
meet others.
Warm welcome spaces can be found all around the UK: in fact, there are over 5,300 of them! These are public spaces that people can enter at no cost, such as
community centres, places of worship, and libraries. They offer a chance to meet others in a warm space where you can enjoy a hot drink and a chat.
When it’s grey, raining, and cold, there’s plenty that can be done inside with loved ones. Here are some ideas:
● Do a puzzle: If you’ve never done a puzzle before, it’s a very fun pastime. It
keeps your brain busy while improving memory and problem-solving skills.
● Arts and crafts: Getting creative with others at home and popping on some
music in the background is a calming way to spend the day.
● Go to the cinema: Watching a film on the big screen is a memorable
adventure, especially when you can talk about it with your loved ones
afterwards.
● Grab a coffee in a café: Going to your local café and buying a coffee or a hot
chocolate is a cosy feeling, especially when done with someone else.
As the new year rolls in, winter can be the perfect time to try a new hobby, pick up an old one, or even reach out to a friend who might be feeling the same way. A small step of whether it’s joining a group, sending a message, or saying yes to something new can make the season feel a little warmer.
By Millie Fuller
Discover roles from cooking and delivering to befriending and animal care.
