Study shows older men feel ‘excluded, overlooked and cut-off’

A two-year study, led by the University of Bristol in collaboration with Age UK, highlights the issues faced by older men, many of whom describe feeling socially excluded, overlooked, cut-off and feeling 'left out of things' - all of which have a range of negative impacts on day-to-day life.

These feelings were triggered by a variety of life events, including loss of a partner, retirement or relocation.

To combat the problem, researchers at the University are calling for changes to the focus of adult social care services – urging for greater priority to be given to the running of groups rather than focusing primarily on care and support for individuals. There should also be more inclusive, tailored groups for older men in marginalised groups.

It follows a report from Age UK which shows the number of over 50s suffering from loneliness is set to reach two million by 2025/6 due to a rising number of older people. This compares to around 1.4 million in 2016/7 – a 49 per cent increase in 10 years[i].

Unfortunately, older men who live alone are more likely to be socially isolated than their female counterparts, having less regular contact with family and friends, and this can exacerbate feelings of loneliness.

The circumstances and experiences that increase the risk of loneliness and isolation appears to rise with age, and among those with long-term health problems and/or disability.

Full Report http://www.bristol.ac.uk/news/2019/april/older-men-loneliness.html