Six ways to support older people in your community
It's important to support those in our local community who may feel vulnerable or lonely. This includes older people, so we've come up with six ways you can support your older neighbours in a safe way.
Show you care
Sending letters, cards or postcards to older people can be a great way of showing you’re thinking about them, or making homemade cards and gifts can help to lift spirits.
Many organisations have been sharing activities to keep people entertained at home, take at look at our staying at home activity pack and tips for writing stories, or try some brilliant brainteasers for ideas on where to start.
Help by running errands
This simplest of tasks has become more difficult recently.
If you know of any older people who might be worried about getting out to pick up food, you could lend a hand by picking up their shopping or medicine and delivering it to their doorstep at a safe distance. Maybe you could make an extra portion of food when you’re making meals and deliver it to them as a nice treat.
Stay in touch
Keeping in touch is important whilst we stay home, to stay safe.
Pick up the phone and call older relatives, ask them how they are, if they need anything or if you can help out in any way. Having a chat with them about their day and what you’ve been up to can help to brighten their day and help them feel a little more connected to the community. You could also show them (or talk them through) how to use WhatsApp, FaceTime or Skype so you can see each other in person.
Encourage them to keep active
Being indoors doesn’t just affect older people’s mental health, it can take its toll on their physical health as well, with reduced movements.
It’s important to encourage older people to keep active inside their homes. This can be achieved by making sure they still take part in hobbies and activities that keep them entertained. On our blog you’ll find some ideas for keeping fit at home, gardening tips to get outdoors, plus much more in our activity pack.
If you can, volunteer your time
Did you know The Abbeyfield Society is a charity?
During this time, we are looking for volunteers who can help support our staff and help to make a massive difference to the overall wellbeing of our residents. There’s a variety of roles available and your time and support will be really appreciated, so please apply now if you can help.
Donate to Abbeyfield
Abbeyfield is a charity for older people providing housing across the UK and internationally. It is our mission to enhance the quality of life for older people through high quality accommodation in a stimulating environment to maintain a socially active life.
Our homes are homely and friendly that have established excellent links within the community, making time for our residents, and enhancing their lives by bringing everyone together.
Please help us by making a donation. Thank you for your continued support.