Loneliness in later life is a significant issue for many people. According to Age UK, nearly one million older people across the UK often feel lonely, and almost half a million say they never see or speak to anybody.  

Loneliness can affect anybody at any age, but a number of contributing factors, such as bereavement, health conditions or needing to care for a loved one mean that older people are much more at risk. Other life changes, such as a reduction in eyesight, hearing or mobility can also lead to people spending more time alone and feeling isolated or invisible. 

According to Age UK, nearly one million older people across the UK often feel lonely (Adlington Retirement).

As a retired GP, Trevor, an Adlington Retirement Living homeowner, knows only too well the negative impact that loneliness can have on health, but he has also experienced first-hand the difference that becoming part of a thriving community can make. 

"In my old house, I used to see very few people except for my neighbours. I think one of the big benefits of moving to a retirement community like Adlington is the stimulus of other people at this time of life. If somebody has been on their own, as I know very well, you can sink into not wanting to do anything, and you start to go downhill. 

"Looking back now, I didn't realise at the time, that's exactly what happened to me. The stimulus of moving into a place like this can be of great benefit. I am so, so pleased I came."

Trevor, an Adlington Retirement Living homeowner, has experienced first-hand the difference that becoming part of a thriving community can make (Adlington Retirement).

Tips to tackle loneliness 

The Mental Health Foundation suggests a variety of simple and practical things we can all do to help ourselves and each other: 

1. Try to keep busy - Activities like gardening, exercise classes or doing jigsaws can give you energy and positive feelings.  
2. Stimulate your mind  - Try activities that occupy your mind, like taking courses or listening to podcasts. 
3. Get moving - Take a walk in the park or dance around your living room.  
4. Try to engage with the people you meet  - Catching someone's eye to say "hi" as you walk along can make you feel better.  
5. Spend time with pets  - Animals provide us with unconditional love and support and give structure to our days. 

Come and see for yourself 

To find out more, join a coffee morning or book a tour, call the friendly sales team on 01782 958850. They're ready to welcome you Monday to Saturday at Brookfields House in Newcastle-under-Lyme or visit adlington.co.uk.

To find out more, join a coffee morning or book a tour (Adlington Retirement).

------------

READ MORE: Car stolen from Stoke-on-Trent home after being left running to defrost

Free from clickbait, pop-up ads and unwanted surveys, Stoke Nub News is a quality online newspaper for our city.

Subscribe to our FREE weekly newsletter email HERE - just click the 'SIGN UP' button.

Please consider following Stoke Nub News on Facebook or Twitter.