Simple ways you can help make a difference
At Abbeyfield, we believe that every older person deserves to feel safe, valued, and connected to their community. Yet, for millions of individuals nationwide, social isolation and persistent loneliness remain a very real and challenging part of daily life.
This is often a complex issue, exacerbated by factors like limited mobility, a lack of nearby family support, or the struggles of navigating modern technological barriers. However, addressing this quiet challenge is vital to enhancing the quality of life for our neighbours.
Making a difference doesn't require grand gestures, but consistent, practical kindness. Here we've put together six simple yet powerful ways you can actively reach out and support the older people living in your community.
1. Show you care through thoughtful gestures
A little bit of kindness goes a long way. To brighten their day, a simple handwritten letter, card, or postcard is a wonderful way to show you are thinking of them. Homemade cards or small, non-perishable gifts are especially meaningful and help lift spirits by reinforcing a sense of being valued.
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Create a simple care package: Gather a few inexpensive, uplifting items like specialty tea, a crossword puzzle book, a small bar of chocolate, or a fresh flower. Dropping this off at their doorstep with a personal note is a lovely gesture of goodwill.
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Share relevant local information: Be sure to include simple details about upcoming local events, library programs, or community initiatives. This helps them stay informed and encourages potential community re-engagement.
2. Help by running essential errands
Simple tasks like grocery shopping or picking up prescriptions can become challenging for older people, especially those with limited mobility.
If you know of any older people who might be struggling, you can lend a hand by:
- Offering to pick up their shopping or medicine.
- Dropping off an extra portion of a meal you've cooked as a nice, unexpected treat.
- Helping with simple tech issues: Offer to help troubleshoot a frozen tablet, reset a Wi-Fi router, or even change a lightbulb that's too high to reach.
These small acts of maintenance can remove daily frustrations.
3. Stay in touch regularly and reliably
Consistent and dependable contact is vital to overcoming loneliness. A simple, friendly chat makes older neighbours and relatives feel seen, valued, and connected to the wider community.
Pick up the phone and call regularly. Ask genuinely how they are, take the time to listen to their stories, and share what you've been up to.
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Set a consistent schedule: Commit to calling or visiting on the same day and time each week. This creates a reliable point of connection they can depend on and truly look forward to.
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Become a Digital Pen Pal: If a phone call feels too intrusive, offer to help them learn to use email or text messaging. This low-pressure communication allows them to respond easily at their leisure.
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Teach them how to make a video call: Help them set up and confidently use video chat apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Skype. This skill lets them connect with distant family and friends visually, bridging physical distance.
4. Encourage them to keep active
Maintaining a daily routine and staying active are fundamental for both mental and physical health. You can help by encouraging older people to remain engaged in their favourite hobbies and meaningful activities.
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Share gentle exercise ideas: Provide simple, accessible ideas for keeping fit at home, such as chair yoga or gentle stretching routines specifically tailored for limited mobility. This helps them maintain strength and independence.
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Bring the outside in: If mobility restricts movement, ensure their favourite chair faces a window with a pleasant view. You could also bring them fresh flowers or a small indoor herb garden to help bring the beauty of the outdoors inside.
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Support hobbies and interests: Encourage them to continue reading, pursuing creative passions, or listening to music. Any activity that keeps their mind sharp, entertained, and engaged in a routine is beneficial. Learn more about lifelong learning.
If you can, volunteer your time
Many charitable organisations that support older people rely on volunteers to deliver services and provide companionship.
Abbeyfield Living Society are constantly seeking dedicated volunteers like you. Your time and support contribute to the wellbeing of our residents and genuinely enhance the quality of life we offer. We have a variety of roles available, ranging from companionship and befriending to admin support.
6. Support Abbeyfield through fundraising and donations
Abbeyfield is dedicated to providing high-quality, supportive accommodation to combat isolation. Your support directly helps us enrich the lives of older people across the UK and internationally.
Every contribution, big or small, helps us continue our vital mission.
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Make a donation: Give directly to support our essential services.
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Fundraise for us: Organise an event like a bake sale or sponsored challenge.
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Donate as you shop: Raise free donations simply by using platforms like Give As You Live when you shop online.
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Leave a legacy: Consider a gift in your will to ensure our support continues for future generations.
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Structured giving: Explore options like Payroll Giving or Corporate Partnerships.
Next steps and further reading
Loneliness in older age
Loneliness is a serious health concern in later life, with factors like poor health and bereavement increasing vulnerability. Studies link chronic loneliness to severe risks, including up to a 40% higher chance of developing dementia or a 30% increased risk of heart disease. Abbeyfield's mission is dedicated to providing companionship and practical ways to overcome this isolation.
Helpful guides and advice
Our help and advice section provides essential resources on the process of moving into retirement or care homes, along with practical information on maintaining your health and wellbeing in later life.
Find an Abbeyfield home near you
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