Despite the recent focus on loneliness in the older generation, 55 per cent of over 60s believe there is a stigma to being lonely. By JANE SLADE
In a new study of 1,000 retirement-aged people one in four said they felt ‘too ashamed’ to admit they feel lonely. Meanwhile, 25 per cent not only presented a ‘stiff upper lip’ approach to loneliness, they also felt they were being a burden if they admitted to being unwell or needed help in any way. This figure rose to 40% in widowed people.
The survey, conducted by retirement property specialists, Churchill Retirement Living, also found that many older people lied to loved ones about feeling lonely saying:
“I hide the fact that I’m feeling lonely by telling friends and loved ones that I enjoy the peace and quiet”. Again this figure was even higher in widowed people (40 per cent).
A quarter of people surveyed said loneliness had affected their health, but felt unable or ashamed to tell people.
“It’s fair to assume that with the stigma of loneliness that many feel, the real numbers that are lonely could be even higher.
“However, there is help and support out there, whether it’s through joining a local group, calling The Silver Line Helpline or coming into one of our developments for a cup of tea and a chat. Many of our owners have had their lives transformed by moving.”
