New study labels loneliness in older people a 'hidden killer'

Older people spend over a third of the year on their own, according to a new survey published by the Associated Retirement Community Operators(ARCO).

Loneliness has been described as a ‘hidden killer’ increasing the risks of death amongst older people by 10 per cent, and the survey of 1,030 people aged 65 and over claimed to feel lonely at least some or all of the time.

Members of ARCO will be using the results of the survey to discuss with MPs how retirement communities which provide housing with care can tackle isolation and loneliness amongst older people. At the same time a major House of Lords select committee inquiry is being conducted on how the Government should respond to the UK’s aging society.

ARCO chairman, Jon Gooding, said: “We are in the grip of a loneliness epidemic; people are fearful of their declining health; and yet appear to be unprepared for old age. Couple this with the fact that in 2033 there will be 3.3 million people over the age of 85 in the UK and it becomes clear that we face a momentous challenge. The emergence of this brand new generation, who want more and expect more from their retirement, calls for an entirely different approach to housing and care.”

The survey also suggested that with an average of 7.8 hours a day alone, London is the loneliest place for over 65’s to grow old and half of all people surveyed felt unable to speak to their family about this loneliness.

Michelle Mitchell, charity director general of Age UK, said:“Living in isolation and loneliness is a stark reality for too many people in later life.

“We know that not being able to get out of the house and socialise with others is linked to feelings of isolation and the adverse impact on a person’s wellbeing of feeling lonely has been likened to that of obesity and smoking"

The survey highlighted a change of opinion which has implied that older people are no longer primarily concerned about having to move away from their family home and instead view their poor health as their main concern they face when growing old.

However despite being worried about their declining health with age, almost three quarters of respondents to the survey have not actually made any preparations for their changing housing needs.

Mr Gooding continued: “Today’s survey shows that whilst people have legitimate concerns about getting older, they are not so worried about being able to stay in the family home. We know that the decision to ‘stay put’ is often associated with a complete lack of choice. We need to wake up as a country and ensure that people are aware of, and have access to, a variety of options for high quality housing, care and support in old age.”

There are currently 50,000 older people living in community villages, where residents can either purchase or rent self-contained accommodation which includes staff based on the premises to deliver flexible personal care and additional domestic services.

Mr Gooding is also the chief executive of and described the benefits of retirement villages:"The positive impact of this type of social interaction on both mental and physical well-being is difficult to measure but you only need attend a village event to see it firsthand and realise the benefits."

“Now is the time for the Government to support growth in the housing with care sector, helping older people make the right move at the right time, having access to the support they need whilst maintaining their right to their own front door.”

Mrs Iris Jones is a resident at Gittisham Hill Park, and said: "This is a great friendship place

"I have become so much more confident. Imagine, growing as a person even at my age!"