The share of older adults aged 65 years or older living alone in South Africa has been steadily increasing in the past years to reach roughly 20% in 2020, according to Statistics South Africa and a recent study conducted by the UN. That’s close to 1 million seniors ageing alone. When you couple that with studies confirming seniors who live alone have a lower life satisfaction, it’s a crisis we must tackle.
How to Treat Senior Loneliness
Read on for CareChamp CEO Sylvia Klopper’s expert advice on things we can all do to combat senior isolation.
Get Online
Why not take advantage of all the technology that’s out there? There is something so special about seeing a friendly face. Which is why we suggest a video call with your elderly loved one. “Befriend a Grandparent” makes it easy. All you need is access to a phone or computer. CareChamp will find a match, complete all the necessary safety checks, and arrange a call.
Listen and Learn
The next time you call your elderly friend or relative, try really listening to them and make them feel like they’re valued and important. The more meaningful the interaction, the more positive and beneficial the health effects. Our companions usually spend a few hours a week with the client/s in their care—being a friend and engaging in intellectually stimulating conversation.