How to stay socially connected - Independent Age

About Independent Age

Whatever happens as we get older, we all want to remain independent and live life on our own terms. That’s why, as well as offering regular friendly contact and a strong campaigning voice, Independent Age can provide you and your family with clear, free and impartial advice on the issues that matter: care and support, money and benefits, health and mobility. A charity founded over 150 years ago, we’re independent so you can be.

This factsheet describes some of the social groups, activities and befriending services available for older people in England.

Social contact is very important. Having a network of good relationships improves our wellbeing and can help keep our minds active.

Being alone doesn’t always mean you’ll feel lonely, but social isolation can lead to loneliness. This might happen if you end up spending more time on your own than you’d like to, but it’s also possible to feel lonely even if you’re surrounded by people. Loneliness happens when you don’t have the type or amount of social contact that you’d like.

Loneliness can affect anyone. It can happen for many different reasons and at any age. However, as you get older, common life events may make you more vulnerable to loneliness and social isolation.

Thankfully, there are lots of organisations and services out there to help older people connect with others, and most cost very little or nothing at all. Staying connected is good for our health and can bring a sense of contentment to our lives. 

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Page last reviewed: 19 October 2022

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