Millions of older people are loneliest in summer – as loved ones visit less

Two-thirds of older people think loneliness and isolation are just as big of an issue during the summer months as the winter – as they get fewer visits from loved ones, and have more hours to fill in the day.

More than a quarter (27%), of 1,400 retired people polled, say they feel more disconnected from their nearest and dearest during the longer, warmer days, as social schedules ramp up.

Four in ten will sometimes go multiple days during the summer without having an in-person chat, while 14% endure a week without a face-to-face conversation with someone close to them.

And with the country experiencing record temperatures this summer, 43% are also struggling in the heat, which can cause them to become more isolated from their family and friends.

But despite the isolation, six in ten are worried about feeling like a burden – and would only want their relatives to visit if they wanted to.

It also emerged over half (57%) think people talk more about loneliness in older people during winter than the summer months – but nearly two-thirds (62%) believe isolation during the warmest time of year is just as big an issue.

The research was commissioned by Specsavers Home Visits, to support its #GenerationWOW campaign, which aims to give older people a platform to pass on their skills and life experience to others.

Katie James, a director and optometrist for the service, which offers free at-home eye tests for those who are eligible, said: “During the summer months when people typically have more plans, it’s easy to forget older people may be missing out on valuable interaction with loved ones as a result.

“The research has shown there is a hidden issue around loneliness in older people during this period.

“And with the days being longer, no doubt it can often feel quite a lonely time for many.”

The study also found 62% of those polled believe people popping around is a lifeline when they are feeling secluded in the summer.

And nearly half (47%) have tried joining social clubs – either locally or online – to curb their solitude.

But 22% are homebound for long periods in the summer as they struggle to fill the days, even if they would normally be able to leave the house alone.

And, despite the average respondent living with two people, 58% said even when surrounded by others, they can sometimes still feel alone.

But while 41% would like to make more friends, 16% find this difficult, according to the OnePoll data.

Boredom can set in for 26% when they go longer than usual without having a meaningful conversation – while one in five (19%) experience feelings of sadness.

Katie James, from Specsavers Home Visits, which is also launching an at-home hearing service in areas of the UK, added: “Even a small conversation that might appear insignificant could have a huge impact on an older person’s day.

“Hopefully this research goes some way to highlighting a hidden problem, and readers will use this as a reminder to pick up the phone or visit an older relative who might be hiding their feelings of loneliness.

“Our teams look to give those who are housebound some much needed face-to-face interaction, while providing an important service which helps them maintain their quality of life.”