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Companionship is important at all stages of life, but it becomes increasingly significant as we get older. Older people often suffer from loneliness for a variety of reasons β they may have lost their life partner, they could live alone, their family may be far away or they might have mobility issues, stopping them from getting out and about.
Loneliness in old age is a huge problem, and a recent poll revealed that almost three quarters of older people in the UK feel lonely. Retirement, bereavement and feelings of social exclusion can all be risk factors of loneliness.
Sometimes disability or poor health can also contribute to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Companionship, offered by neighbours, friends, carers or community volunteers can really make a difference and help to combat loneliness. Having somebody to interact with is the best way to feel connected to society. If you have a companion, you enjoy their company and want to spend time with them. Companionship is a basic human need, and when these needs are not fulfilled it can cause emotional and physical problems.
Companionship is important for establishing a sense of belonging. Without it, people can become lonely and even depressed, which is why society needs to make more of an effort to meet the companionship needs of the elderly.
