Researching ways to reach more older people

As our ageing population grows, we need to find more and better ways to combat the loneliness and isolation which affects so many older people. To help us do this we have embarked on an ambitious programme of work, which is being undertaken by our Policy, Research & Consultancy (PR&C) team.

Since it launched last August, the team has already established links with 24 universities, including Oxford, King’s College London, University College London, and Anglia Ruskin, with various collaborations being considered. The PR&C team works with our Research Advisory Group comprised of four older people, three volunteers, and an academic, to review research proposals relevant to the vital work of Re-engage.

Lots of interesting ideas are being aired with one involving ‘living noise robots’, and another investigating how the structural environment can sometimes be a barrier to older people who want to make social connections. It might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but researchers from the University of Hertfordshire have undertaken a pilot study to see if older people would consider ‘adopting’ a small, animal-shaped robot that connects them to domestic activities such as dinner being cooked, listening to TV or a bath being run. A recent workshop produced fairly positive results from these ‘living noise robots’ and we are now in talks with the researchers with a view to collaborating on a second, bigger study.

And while we look at how to combat loneliness in the home, it’s also important to consider how the outside world can make it difficult for older people to socialise. One researcher at Oxford University’s Global Centre on Health Care and Urbanisation is investigating the impact of where we live and how this affects our ability to get out and about and maintain social contacts as we get older.

Hopefully, armed with such vital information, we can start to influence planning authorities so they always consider the needs of older people who will need to navigate towns and cities while out shopping or visiting friends. This project, which is being funded by the Royal Town Planning Institute, is currently awaiting ethical approval and, if given the go ahead, will focus on our coastal towns, many of which are experiencing an explosion in older populations.

Right now, we’re urgently looking for new Call Companions - volunteers who can offer a friendly voice and a listening ear to a lonely or isolated older person. Just one regular call a week can make a huge difference. A small commitment with a big impact - not just for the older person, but for the volunteer too. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be a Call Companion, read this inspiring story from one of our amazing volunteers and see how something as simple as a phone call can change lives.

While we plan ahead for a more engaged future, we mustn’t forget momentous times of the past, and this month marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day. I’m sure many of you will have memories of wartime experiences, some of which we’ll be sharing on our website in the coming days. We’re also sharing memories from our tea party and social group guests and call companion participants during our 60th year – we hope you enjoy reading about wonderful lives lived as much as we do!