Combat Loneliness through Companionship Care
At Home Instead Richmond, we are committed to ensuring the positive wellbeing of the older adults in our community. Here's how we are combating against the loneliness epidemic
Loneliness is a challenge that affects millions of older adults in the UK, with Age UK reporting that 1.6 million older people find Christmas Day the hardest day of the year. But this issue isn’t limited to the festive season—loneliness is a year-round struggle, particularly for the over 75s, with over 2 million in England living alone. According to the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), one in four adults over sixty reports feeling lonely, rising to nearly one in three for those aged over seventy-five. It’s not just older adults affected—two in three carers of people with dementia also feel lonely, with the majority being spouses or partners.
The effects of loneliness are profound. As Sarah Page, an occupational therapist, explains, loneliness can sap people’s appetite, energy, and motivation. “They might have a fridge full of food from family carers but they don’t feel like eating. It has a knock-on effect on their health and increases their risk of falling.” Loneliness is even linked to up to one in five cases of depression in people over fifty, underscoring the importance of reducing isolation.
At Home Instead Richmond, one of the main concerns with family members seeking care visits for a loved one is loneliness. Their loved one may not be able to drive as much anymore, they have had an upsetting incident, such a fall, or suffered a bereavement. This is where our companionship visits can be transformative. Our Care Professionals provide much more than practical support—they’re a friendly face, a listening ear, and a consistent presence in our clients’ lives. From sharing meals and conversation to exploring hobbies, our visits are tailored to create moments of connection and joy.
We also actively support older adults in engaging with the local community, recognising the World Health Organization’s emphasis on creating age-friendly spaces. Our Care Professionals help clients get involved in Richmond’s dementia-friendly activities such as Tea & Memories, Singing for the Brain, and the Retro Club. Through our partnership with Age UK Richmond, we ensure older adults have access to a wealth of inclusive events and resources.
Companionship care visits at Home Instead Richmond make a real difference. They help maintain routines, encourage healthy eating, and provide vital opportunities for socialisation. These small steps have a big impact—reducing loneliness, supporting mental health, and fostering a sense of belonging.
Together, with the incredible resources available in Richmond, we’re building a brighter, more connected future for older adults. Let’s ensure no one feels alone, not just during the festive season but every day of the year. If you’d like to know more about how we can help, please reach out today.
