Living Alone Without the Isolation
There are many 50+ women out there who are neither married nor in a committed relationship. Perhaps you are one of them. It can be daunting, scary and lonely. Look for ways you can keep yourself busy to prevent isolation and loneliness from creeping up on you when you least expect it.
How to make new connections and meet others (women or men) in your prime years
It's obvious, but yes, spending time with others will prevent loneliness and isolation. Sometimes, it's more challenging than it sounds, though. Here are a few options to help you along:
Join a local group. You can build new and meaningful friendships while, at the same time, regaining your confidence.
Get involved in Clubs and Classes. Age UK often has unique clubs and classes you can join. Not only will you meet new people, but you might be open to learning a new skill or hobby, too. https://www.ageuk.org.uk/get-involved/social-groups/friendship-centres
Volunteer. Many places are crying out for volunteers. Head over to https://www.gov.uk/volunteering to find volunteering opportunities that might interest you.
The University of the Third Age, or u3a, has a wealth of classes and activities, both online and off, to get involved with. https://www.u3a.org.uk/
Pushing past your comfort zone isn't always easy, but discovering a new and fun activity will not only address any loneliness it can also introduce you to a range of new friends. If you feel self-conscious doing this alone, ask a friend or family member to accompany you.
Remain connected with loved ones by actively participating in their lives
With technological advances, staying in touch with people is now easier than ever. Yes, you can put away the parchment and quill now.
We've got FaceTime, Zoom, Skype, text, email, WhatsApp, etc. Or rumour has it, mobiles even have a phone facility now. You could make it a mission to call one additional friend or family member daily.
Please seek help if loneliness becomes all-consuming
Loneliness can lead to low mood, and low mood can lead to depression, which, as many of us know, is a dreadful, dark, and scary place.
Feeling worried, low, out of sorts, or struggling to work up the energy to find joy in the things you used to are all signs that you are not in a good place.
While talking to someone might feel daunting, the result of doing nothing about your feelings is far worse. Speak to someone you trust and feel comfortable with. A close friend, family member, doctor or nurse. Sometimes, talking can be all you need to bring you back to feeling more like yourself. Depending on the circumstances, you might need something more, like coping strategies or medication.
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