Loneliness is effecting elderly individuals across the UK more than ever before.

A recent survey shows that 1 in 3 elderly people feel more isolated compared to pre-pandemic levels.

The report also found that 40% of elderly people did not leave their house throughout the lockdowns. Many are now turning to local groups for support.

The Irish Elderly Advice Network is an elderly loneliness charity. Hosting music events and offering welfare and advice, the charity has improved the lives of the elderly across the UK.

Attendees of a community event hosted by the charity at the Roman Catholic Church of St. Thomas Moore in Finsbury Park (Photo: Rachel Evans)

Community socials

Event organisers claim argue these events are vital for the Irish descendants, especially after the isolating lockdowns:

“Particularly during the day, you’ve got less events for older people.

“The participatory element, with everyone being able to sing along, is important. Unless you can come to a session at a pub, which might be later in the day which might be less suitable for older Irish people.”

When asked about the future of these events, organiser Kiaran said: “There’ll always be folk music events, to what extent they’ll be playing these specific songs I don’t know, cause obviously tastes change.”

Nostalgic music, specifically ‘Ireland, Mother Ireland’, by John McCormick, was heard throughout the event and enjoyed by all. Guests sang along, flaunted their Irish dancing, and volunteered to sing solos of their favourite native songs.

One attendee, Patricia, said that coming together in person right now is really appreciated by the elderly, and said that “a lot of us have been living on Zoom for two years”.

By combining the high number of lonely elderly people and the return to socialising, there is a need for communities to organise events to help those feeling isolated.

For information on how to take part in the next Irish Elderly Advice Network, visit their website.

To find a community support group in your area, use the gov.uk search engine and reach out today.