World Mental Health Day: how home care helps reduce loneliness

According to Age UK, almost one million older people in the UK are lonely.

Loneliness can affect anyone, regardless of age. But while most of us experience these negative feelings occasionally, persistent loneliness can take a toll on our mental and physical health, increasing our risk of things like depression, anxiety, and high blood pressure.

This World Mental Health Day, we want to raise awareness about loneliness in older people, the signs you should look out for, and how home care can make a lasting difference.

What is the difference between loneliness and social isolation?

Although they’re often used interchangeably, loneliness and social isolation are not quite the same.

Loneliness is the negative feeling that stems from a gap between the amount of social connection we desire and the amount we actually experience. 

Social isolation, on the other hand, refers to having few social contacts or interactions. 

Contrary to what we might think, it’s possible to experience loneliness when surrounded by lots of people. And it’s also possible for someone to be alone often, and not feel the effects of loneliness. 

Which age group is at higher risk of loneliness?

Loneliness can affect people at any stage of life, but the reasons often differ by age.

Young people may feel lonely after leaving school or university, while older adults can be more vulnerable due to bereavement, declining mobility, or health challenges (Age UK). Fear of falling can also discourage older people from going outdoors, especially during the colder months, which further limits connection.

Signs of loneliness in older people

Loneliness can negatively impact our mental health, with 9 out of 10 older people who are often lonely also reporting feelings of unhappiness and depression. That’s why noticing the signs is key. Here’s what you should look out for:

• Changes in sleep (too much or too little)
• Loss of appetite
• Increased alcohol use
• Fatigue after social interactions
• A drop in self-confidence
• Reduced phone calls or social contact

Many people find it hard to talk about loneliness due to the stigma that surrounds it. Spotting these subtle changes in a loved one’s behaviour can help you take the first steps toward support.

How home care can make a difference

For older people who often feel lonely, home care can provide all-important companionship and support. From companionship, to getting involved with your local community, here are 5 ways home care can reduce the feeling of loneliness in older people.

1. Companionship and connection

More than one million older people say they go over a month without speaking to a friend, neighbour, or family member (NHS).

Home care introduces consistent, meaningful companionship. Whether it’s chatting over a cup of tea or playing a game, these small moments of connection can greatly improve mood and well-being. 

The level of care can also be tailored depending on your loved one’s needs, from a few hours a week to round-the-clock live-in care.

2. Supporting mobility

Mobility challenges often lead older adults to stay indoors, which can quickly lead to isolation. Home carers can assist with safe movement around the home, accompany your loved one on walks or outings, and build confidence to get outside again.

With the right support, previously daunting trips (like visiting friends, attending community groups, or enjoying nature) become possible again. 

3. Assisting with daily tasks

Emotional stresses, like loneliness and anxiety, can take a toll on our energy levels and leave us feeling fatigued.

Everyday chores like cooking, laundry, and cleaning can be tiring for some older people, leaving them with less energy for social interaction during the day. A carer can help by providing gentle, practical help with these tasks (from meal preparation to personal care) and free up time and energy for social connection.

4. Supporting physical activity

Exercise is a proven mood booster and a powerful tool against loneliness and anxiety.

With a carer at home, your loved one can receive support for movement and exercise. From gentle chair exercises, to feeding birds in the garden, or joining a local walking group. These small steps can support both physical health and social confidence, and help combat the negative feelings caused by loneliness.

5. Getting involved with the local community

Feeling part of a community gives people purpose and belonging. 

Carers can help your loved one stay engaged with their local community by finding local clubs, helping with transport, or encouraging hobbies and volunteering. All of these connections can help replace isolation with inclusion, and support better well-being.

Reducing loneliness this Mental Health Day

Each year, World Mental Health Day gives us the important opportunity to raise awareness for mental health issues, reduce stigma, and encourage us to find support for our well-being. By talking about, and recognising loneliness, we can offer practical, compassionate support that makes a difference.

By supporting loved ones with compassionate home care, we not only help to reduce loneliness, but also nurture their mental health and well-being all year round. 

Ready to learn more? Explore our expert home care services.