An unwelcome feeling of a lack or loss of companionship is how Perlman and Peplau (1981) describe loneliness.
It is a myth that loneliness and isolation just affects our older communities. Whilst research shows that over half a million older people spend between 5 and 6 days a week without speaking to anyone, loneliness and isolation can affect everyone regardless of age. It is thought that over 9 million adults are often or always lonely.
Did you know that loneliness is as bad for you as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, gives you an increased risk of heart attack or angina by 29% and an increased risk of a stroke by 30%. Surprising statistics! It affects our wellbeing and leads to anxiety and depression.
Here at Argo we are aware that many of our clients
ill experience loneliness and isolation at many different times and we are always trying to ensure we help to combat that. We regularly call our clients to see how they are and drop in to see them just because we want to. Our doors are always open for clients to drop in for a chat, coffee and cake. We have been doing this throughout lockdown but now that we are nearly free we are setting up our new chat and natter cafes. Plans are afoot to hold these across Kent on regular dates for all to attend to say hello. Watch our new feed for more about our chat and natter cafes. Coming soon to a venue near you!