People living with dementia have reported that their mental health has become worse as a result of the extended lockdown in the UK.
Research carried out by the Alzheimer’s Society in the UK found that 32 per cent of those with some form of dementia said that lockdown led to them feeling like giving up or having a sense of apathy about their lives.
An even higher proportion (45 per cent) revealed that lockdown has had a negative impact on their mental health, with many now feeling unsafe about going out into the community now that restrictions are being eased.
The charity also revealed that around two-fifths of the people who called the Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Connect help line in June expressed concerns about coronavirus and their mental health.
While the majority of those living with dementia have experienced some form of decline in their social interactions, it is those living on their own who have suffered the most during this period. Almost half (46 per cent) of people in this group have gone at least four days without having a single in-depth conversation with anyone else.
This is compared to 29 per cent among those with dementia who don’t live alone.
78 per cent of the people living with dementia who were surveyed by the organisation said that they felt more lonely or isolated than they had before the pandemic.
Chief Executive at Alzheimer’s Society Kate Lee commented: “As lockdown begins to lift and the true extent of its knock-on effect to the health and wellbeing of people with dementia becomes evident, it’s never been more important to ensure no-one faces this crisis alone.”
An article for Deeside.com recently urged people to continue checking in on their elderly neighbours and family members, particularly those who are living with dementia.
Caroline Jones, regional manager at care organisation Abacare, told the news provider that it’s important that people remember to check in on their elderly family, friends and neighbours, even if they have to remain at a safe distance.
“Anything you can do to put a smile on their faces will be a big help during these worrying times,” she asserted.
This might be as simple as having a chat through their window, or standing an appropriate distance away from their door so they can talk to you outside their home. Helping people to have more social interaction will certainly have a positive impact on their mental health.
It’s also a good idea to make sure that any elderly relatives or friends have everything they need to live independently and safely at home.
Many properties in the UK aren’t fit for purpose when it comes to helping us stay active and independent as we get older or our mobility worsens. And, as an article for Bdaily reported recently, just 0.6 per cent of those aged over 65 in the UK live in a purpose-built retirement community.
Consider whether installing a walk in shower bath combo and other modifications in your home could make it easier for you to stay living there for longer.
If you are interested in finding out more information call us on 01491 411041 or visit our website www.absolutemobility.co.uk
