A new initiative fighting loneliness has found success as more seniors report feeling ‘abandoned’, ‘rejected’ and ‘left to die’.
Local aged care provider Infinite Care launched the Long Table initiative to help residents foster connecitons and “form new friendships”.
The initiative sees Infinite Care staff, volunteers, families and residents dine at one, long table to chat, eat and have fun.
Resident Ann Howse said the initiative made a positive difference in her life.
“I enjoyed we all could bring friends together over a lovely meal,” she said.
“I chatted to a resident I hadn’t met before and we had so much in common, we even enjoyed a few laughs.
One of her neighbours, John Hudson, said he also made new connections.
“I spoke to a resident over a meal, and we realised we were both from Tasmania and knew the same people – it was a wonderful experience,” he said.
Infinite Care CEO Luke Greive said the Long Table event would be ongoing throughout all their homes.
“Loneliness profoundly impacts health and wellbeing, making it crucial for everyone to take responsibility and work together in addressing it,” Mr Greive said.
“Our Long Table concept is designed to create a unified and supportive community, where everyone feels connected and valued.
“Loneliness Awareness Week is an important reminder, but our commitment to reducing loneliness and fostering a sense of belonging extends beyond that.”
Loneliness Awareness Week statistics show 15 percent of people report feeling lonely often or always, while 46 percent are too embarrassed to admit it to others.
