One of the most common causes of depression is caused by living alone. The sense of loneliness can be overwhelming for many as we were not designed for this. We lived in tribes for thousands of years and it is built into our DNA to crave being in groups of 20 up to 200, because that used to be the average size of a tribe. It can also be a difficult task to look after ourselves when age starts to affect our health.
There are many home tasks that are far easier to accomplish working as a two, like making the bed. We can become very weak when we become older which makes things such as taking out the rubbish extremely difficult. Even tasks that used to be easy such as getting food or glasses from high cabinets can be almost impossible for some elderly to do on their own.
Here are seven ways you can still live a happy life, even if you’re living alone.
#1: Dishwashers
If you have not yet invested in a dishwasher you should try to save enough money to buy one as it will be one of the best investments you make. It can make doing the dishes take almost no time and you will wonder how you ever used to cope without one. It can also be used to clean a number of difficult items to clean such as mop heads, lamp shades, pet toys, dust pans, sink sponges and even gardening tools.
#2: Wear Rubber Gloves To Open Jars
It can be extremely stressful not being able to open a jar, especially if you need to use what’s in it immediately. One solution to this can be to wear rubber gloves as they provide more grip which makes opening jars a lot easier.
#3: Security Alarm System
Getting to sleep when you’re living alone can be difficult for some and the slightest noise can make them scared at night. Put your mind to rest so you can get a better night’s sleep by buying a security alarm system.
#4: Budget Shopping
It is extremely costly living on your own as the world has become so expensive it needs two wages coming in to survive. One of the first things you will need to learn is how to budget and by making lists is the best way to do your shopping.
Try to set weekly budgets with all your overheads accounted for and stay within the confined as it can be difficult to recover if you have to take out debt to cover your expenses. Remember that there are plenty of elderly discounts available to help save money on shopping.
#5: Phone Calls
If you are finding it difficult to cope on your own and you do not have many friends in the area you can meet up with, life can be extremely tough. It is important that you avoid this situation as we all need someone to talk to about our feelings. There are lots of free helplines available and do not feel embarrassed to reach out to family members and schedule a regular phone call.
#6: Become Friends With The Neighbours
Having one or all of your neighbours as a friend can help to fill those boring dull moments staying at home on your own. By making friends with them it will mean that you will both be able to look out for each other and it will give you someone to chat with on a regular basis along with helping to stop boredom.
#7: Get a Careline
People who are living alone can often worry about what might happen to them if they have a fall or if they take a turn for the worse health-wise. A Careline Alarm can help to take all of these worries away and can bring some confidence into the house.
Careline users are covered by a 24-hour monitoring team, to ensure that help is always available. Just one push of the pendant button and help will be on its way. To find out more about the Careline service please call 0800 101 3333 today.
Closing Thoughts on Living Alone
It can be enjoyable living on your own, but too much time spent in isolation can be extremely bad for your mental health. Make sure you get outside and make an effort to meet new people that you can share experiences with. One of the best ways to do that is by starting a new hobby that you’re passionate about and you’re sure then to meet like minded people.
