Wendover Dementia Support – February 2023

Loneliness
The most terrible poverty is loneliness and the feeling of being unloved (Mother Teresa)
Loneliness is a major risk factor, not only for anxiety and depression but also many physical illnesses. Many of us are aware that older people living alone are at risk of loneliness and many try to check on neighbours in that situation. However, we may not realise that someone caring for a husband or wife with dementia is even more at risk.

According to a new study, almost two-thirds of family dementia carers report severe loneliness, compared to around one third for the general population of older adults.

Loneliness does not come from having no people around you but from being unable to communicate the things that seem important to you. (Carl Jung)
Sadly, many people assume that couples have each other and cannot be lonely, but many of these family carers find that as dementia progresses, they are not only socially isolated but also less able to communicate effectively with their husband or wife. The loneliness can be intense and sometimes made worse by the lack of recognition from their friends and neighbours.

So, if you know of anyone in that position, think about reaching out to them. It is important to listen and care.

If you know of a Westongrove patient with a diagnosis of dementia in need of support, please let them know about Wendover Dementia Support. Visit our website on
www.wendoverds.org.uk. Anyone can contact us on wendoverds@gmail.com or ring 07732 342409.