Times aren’t great for anyone at the moment. Whilst the southwest has been relatively unaffected by COVID-19 the prospect of a second wave looms large. The impending stories of doom are all over the media. This time we know more and know what’s coming, which isn’t perhaps better for some.
We need to take the risk of COVID-19 seriously. However, we do all need to be objective and balance that risk. COVID-19 isn’t the only thing that could affect our lives right now. Social isolation and living alone are risk factors for early mortality which could increase the rate of death 25%. It really is as bad for you as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. With over half a million older people in the UK going at least 6 days a week without seeing or speaking to anyone the Budleigh Hub has decided to act.
From October we will be running an Activity Club for the mobile older person on a Tuesday and Thursday and a more traditional day centre on a Monday. Activates such as: painting; gardening; health walks; craft; exercise and having lunch with children from our Carousel nursery will improve anyone’s day. These take place in a ‘COVID secure’ environment with transport available if required. These simple acts will reduce loneliness, reduce illness and put a smile on someone’s face.
It is really important that we all help our older population to get through these times. It is all our responsibility.
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“When you are here at Seachange, people care about your wellbeing and they want to help you. That includes the reception staff, the café, and the managers. It really does make a difference.”