Specsavers research reports one in three older adults experience loneliness

A High Street multiple has organised a surprise party for care home residents in Leicestershire after learning that one-in-three older adults experience loneliness.

The research, performed by Specsavers Home Visits, polled 1000 people aged 65 and over and found that over half of respondents (54%) reported to going days without interacting with another person. It also found that 91% recognised loneliness as a “significant” problem for their generation.

On learning the survey results, the multiple hosted a surprise party for residents at The Meadows Care Home in Leicestershire.

After receiving eye examinations from Specsavers Home Visits, residents at the care home and their families were provided with an afternoon of live music, singing, food and conversation.

Ophthalmic partner at Specsavers Home Visits, Rizwan Desai,said: “We know that many of our older patients experience loneliness and we want to do as much as we can to foster a sense of community and connection, beyond helping them with their vision and hearing.”

Desai shared that, “it was wonderful to see the residents, their family members and the care home staff at The Meadows enjoy the surprise together.”

“Our team had a great time and always look forward to spending time with our care home patients,” she added.

Conducted through OnePoll, the survey additionally found that over half (51%) of those who feel lonely always have the TV or radio on at home for background noise.Furthermore, nearly two-thirds (64%) of respondents said they like to help those around them feel less lonely, with over one in three (36%) sharing that they will check in with others through calls or visits, while 18% will arrange regular catch ups over coffee.

The study also found that 36% would consider moving to an assisted living residence when they are older, as 45% acknowledge that these facilities can help to reduce loneliness.

Rizwanreflected: “While it’s concerning to discover that so many of our older patients are experiencing loneliness, it’s encouraging to see growing awareness of the issue and the ways we can help.”