Seniors shouldn't have to live with loneliness - Age Concern

Media Release: Age Concern New Zealand

September 27, 2011

Seniors shouldn't have to live with loneliness - Age Concern

Loneliness and social isolation are common issues older people face, however Age Concerns around New Zealand are on hand to help.

Age Concern does important work with older people facing the problem of social isolation.

Age Concern New Zealand Chief Executive Ann Martin says research has proven loneliness is bad for your health.

"Social connections can help protect against a range of health problems including heart disease and stroke.

"Older people can become isolated and lonely due to events like losing a partner or friends, becoming unable to walk far or to drive, or having to move house. It's important to do something about it."

Local Age Concerns provide caring volunteer visitors for older people with their Accredited Visiting Service Ratonga Torotoro Whaimana (AVS).

AVS client Liz (not her real name) has been much happier since receiving the service. She says, "It can be difficult getting older and having friends start to pass away and my family don't live locally. My visitor has become like a second daughter to me, taking me out on outings and helping me celebrate milestones. Her visits have brightened up my life."

The benefits flow both ways.

"Nation-wide we survey our AVS volunteers and they tell us that they get great enjoyment from visiting their older friends," says Ms Martin.

One volunteer reports, "It's been a great experience. We can learn so much from older people and you can never have too many friends."

Ms Martin says Accredited Visiting Services always welcome additional volunteer visitors and clients. People interested should contact their local Age Concern for more information about joining the service.

Age Concern New Zealand has a page of tips from older people for keeping connected at www.ageconcern.org.nz.

ENDS

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