Being part of Re-engage has changed my life a lot for the better. Before this I used to feel so lonely.β
There are 5.4 million people in the UK aged over 75, and 2.2 million of them live alone. Many experience severe social isolation and constant loneliness.
In the words of Charles, 91: ββLoneliness feels like living in a vacuum. Itβs an unhappy time.β
As we get older, our social circles diminish, and we can find ourselves with fewer and fewer people to turn to. Imagine realising one day that all your friends and family have gone from your life. Loneliness can be cruel, and it affects millions of people over 75 who live in social isolation.
We were delighted to be chosen as a charity beneficiary for the ΒιΆΉΤΌΕΔ Lifeline appeal. Through the generosity of those who supported the appeal we raised over Β£7,000. This has made it possible to help break that cycle of loneliness and bring joy and laughter back into older peopleβs lives.
Our free monthly social groups give isolated older people afternoons of conversation and laughter with friends of all ages. While our Call Companions telephone befriending service ensures older people benefit from a regular chat over the phone. This routine helps people living by themselves feel more connected to the outside world β where they can be heard, and valued. And to ensure that older people have the opportunity to exercise in a friendly, encouraging and supportive space β Re-engage run a variety of gentle activity groups. Keeping active is a great way of improving our physical and mental health, as well as keeping us independent for longer.
A very special thank you to Sara Cox for presenting our appeal and a huge thank you to everyone who watched it and donated. To find out more about Re-engage, please visit our website.