In our small but blossoming charity, we believe that tackling loneliness and social isolation is critical to improving health and wellbeing in older people.

According to the charity, Age UK, there are some 1.2 million chronically lonely older people in the UK, with more than a million older people saying they go for over a month without speaking to a friend, neighbour or family member. Regardless of our age, the impacts of loneliness on our mental, but also physical, health are not to be underestimated.

The good news is that we can all do something about it. Whilst loneliness can be particularly damaging for older people, it’s important to remember that it’s also something that can affect each and every one of us at some stage in life. This is why when it comes to addressing loneliness, we, at CareDogs, call for an approach underpinned by solidarity, community, empathy, and kindness. By seeking strategies and solutions that work for not only older people, but for people of all ages, we can work together to reduce loneliness amongst all sectors of society, helping ourselves as individuals, and each other.

Here are just a few short and snappy ideas to get us all started when it comes to tackling loneliness, head-on:

1. Get out of your comfort zone

Feeling fed up, uninspired or just a ‘bit stuck’? Why not try finding a common bond with others by researching local meet-ups and groups that you find interesting. One of your hobbies may be the key to connecting to new friends. Not sure what you like doing yet? Be open to trying something new… You might end up loving it! If you’re not able to get online and aren’t sure where to look for opportunities and events, try checking out notice boards in your local library, community centre, post office, café, supermarket or corner shop – and keep an eye out for flyers or posters in the street, too. Once you start actively looking for ads and announcements, you might be surprised at just how much is out there!

2. Embrace small connections

Put down the phone, put aside any general distractions and try to be in the present...You may strike up a conversation with a shop assistant or a bus driver, and by simply making the effort to smile, make eye contact and offer a quick, ‘How are you?’, you might really make somebody’s day – and no doubt come away feeling cheerier yourself! In our fast-paced lifestyles – and in a culture where the glorification of ‘busyness’ is becoming far too prevalent – simply taking the time to pause, be in the moment and make time for the person you’re interacting with, can be a small but meaningful way to brighten up the rest of the day. Also, don’t forget that kindness is inherently replicable – so by treating even strangers in the street with kindness and compassion, the natural domino effect will ensure your positivity is spread far and wide… A win-win, loneliness-busting scenario!

3. Focus on the needs of others

Helping others focuses our attention away from our own feelings and towards a place of purpose. If you’re able to, volunteering is a great way to do something good in the world, connect with other people and gain perspective. If you’re keen to support or meet older people, community centres, hospitals or libraries are often great first ports of call, and local charity shops can be a fantastic way to make new friends and learn new skills, all whilst supporting a great cause. Similarly, whether it’s a homeless shelter, animal rescue centre, or a community allotment – whatever you’re interested in, there really is something for everybody when it comes to volunteering. Applying your skills and enthusiasm to a new project will be massively appreciated by whichever charity you choose – and in turn, we bet you’ll feel pretty pleased with yourself, too!

4. Get moving!

It’s no secret that exercise is an absolute must when it comes to feeling good. Endorphins (the positive feeling in our bodies triggered by physical activity) are akin to our very own ‘happy hormones’ – happiness we can simply tap into whenever we go for a jog or a few laps around the pool! Rest assured that you don’t have to be a marathon runner or an olympic swimmer to see results, though… Essentially, all and any movement is good for us, so even if it’s just venturing out for a stroll around the park, dancing to your favourite music in the kitchen or perhaps walking to the shops rather than taking the car – every little bit helps. Whatever you choose, though, don’t forget to have fun! When it comes to exercise, if you don’t enjoy it, you’ll be falling at the first hurdle, so think of something that lights you up and (literally and metaphorically) puts a spring in your step! Obviously, being the community-loving folks that we are here at CareDogs, we believe the best option is to kill two birds with one stone by getting fit in a welcoming, friendly group. Whether it’s a walking group, an aerobics or dance class, a team sport or something else that takes your fancy, becoming a regular at your chosen activity will be good for your health, but also – through forming connections and friendships with like-minded people – good for your happiness, too!

5. Explore the great outdoors

Whilst the great British weather is not always conducive to getting out and about, studies have shown that the myriad benefits of getting outside – and particularly into green, open spaces – really are worth their weight in gold when it comes to tackling loneliness and boosting our mental health. Research has suggested that spending time in nature, surrounded by wildlife and far removed from the strains and stresses of everyday, suburban life, can have a calming, restorative effect. Team up this time in nature with a group-based activity, and you’re onto a sure-fire path to a healthier, more upbeat day. Volunteering at a local allotment or community garden, joining a hiking or walking group, joining a nature photography class or volunteering at your local Wildlife Trust or National Trust site can all be great ways to meet new people, lap up the fresh air and re-energise the soul. Closer to home, simply watering your houseplants or spending five minutes with a cuppa in the garden, soaking up the sounds, sights and smells around you, is a great way to focus on the here and now, unwind, and stave off feelings of loneliness. At CareDogs, we believe the ultimate way to tick the nature, friends, exercise and wellbeing boxes is to don those wellies, pick up that lead, brave the elements and treat you and your four-legged chum to a long walk outside. As an accessible, relaxing and low-cost activity to be enjoyed by owners and dogs alike, we really believe it’s an idea – doggy pun warning alert – not to be sniffed at!

If you or an older person you know is experiencing loneliness, please don’t ignore it – CareDogs, and many other organisations in the UK, are here to listen, and help. For advice and information about loneliness, its effects and potential solutions, please consider visiting the UK-wide Campaign to End Loneliness