Seniors shouldn't have to live with loneliness

Seniors shouldn't have to live with loneliness – Age Concern

Some older people face loneliness and social isolation and Age Concerns around the country have services to help them.

Today, as part of its Awareness Week activities, Age Concern is showcasing its important work with older people facing the problem of social isolation.

“Research shows that loneliness is bad for health,” says Age Concern speaker Louise Rees. “It’s been proved that social connections can help protect against a range of health problems including heart disease and stroke.

“Older people can become isolated and lonely due to events like losing a partner or friends, becoming unable to walk far or to drive, or having to move house. It’s important to do something about it.”

Local Age Concerns provide caring volunteer visitors for older people with their Accredited Visiting Service Ratonga Torotoro Whaimana (AVS).

AVS client Joanne (not her real name) has had her life transformed since receiving the service. She says, “[my visitor] has become the daughter I never had, I don't know what I would do without her. She’s caring, remembers my birthday, takes me out to see other people. In other words I love her.”

The benefits flow both ways.

“Nation-wide we survey our AVS volunteers and they tell us that they get great enjoyment from visiting their older friends,” says Age Concern New Zealand president Liz Baxendine.

One volunteer says, “It’s good to be a sounding board, a friend, a companion, a smile. It is a two way thing I feel I get a lot out of my older friend.”

Louise Rees says Accredited Visiting Services always welcome additional volunteer visitors and clients. People interested should contact their local Age Concern for more information about joining a service.

Age Concern New Zealand has a page of tips from older people for keeping connected at www.ageconcern.org.nz.

ENDS

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