Building Stronger Social Connections in Later Life

It’s easy to assume that loneliness is just a temporary feeling, but the evidence paints a more serious picture. Social connection is not a luxury, it’s a basic human need. Particularly for those in later life, staying connected plays a vital role in emotional wellbeing, cognitive sharpness, and physical health.

Research by Age UK shows that strong social ties can help maintain memory, reduce anxiety, and even extend life expectancy. On the other hand, data from the NHS highlights that loneliness is linked to poorer mental and physical health outcomes, including increased risks to wellbeing and longevity.

In 2023/24, 23% of over-75s in Northern Ireland reported feeling lonely at least some of the time, a figure that’s on the rise. As we approach 2025, meaningful connection remains more important than ever for wellbeing and quality of life.

Several common life events can make social contact harder to maintain in later years:

• Retirement, which can reduce daily structure and regular interaction.
• Bereavement, especially the loss of a partner or close friends.
• Mobility or health issues that make going out more difficult.
• Family living far away, limiting face-to-face time.
• Lack of confidence using public transport or digital tools.

These barriers can gradually make it harder to maintain social routines, even if they once had a thriving network. Without support, prolonged disconnection can significantly affect wellbeing

At Home Instead Warminster & Gillingham, we actively encourage our clients to keep connecting with the people, places, and passions they love. Here are some activities and ideas that support social wellbeing:

Join a Local Book Club

Reading and discussion can be deeply stimulating and enjoyable. Book clubs provide a relaxed environment for exchanging ideas, meeting new people, and having regular catchups that offer real connection.

Try Indoor Gardening

Planting, potting, and nurturing greenery not only brings joy and purpose, it’s also a calming, mindful hobby that can be shared with others. Whether it’s in a conservatory or on a windowsill, indoor gardening can spark conversation and collaboration.

Support Local Theatre

Attending local theatre productions or even volunteering behind the scenes brings excitement, culture, and social opportunity. Gillingham and Warminster both have strong local arts scenes where seniors can be both spectators and contributors.

 Attend Coffee Mornings or Memory Cafés

Friendly drop-ins such as memory cafés are excellent for those living with dementia and their loved ones. They provide support, conversation, and community in a safe and relaxed setting. Coffee mornings also offer a social outlet without pressure, just a cuppa and a chat.

Technology as a Lifeline

For those who are physically distant from friends or family, digital tools can help bridge the gap. With a little support to get started, older adults can use:

• Video calls to see loved ones
• Group messaging apps for family chats
• Online hobby groups and classes
• Social media to stay up-to-date

This kind of contact may not replace in-person interaction, but it adds an important layer of connectivity and reassurance.

Across the UK, several initiatives are helping tackle loneliness among older adults:

• Age NI offers events and support, including befriending services and social groups.
• U3A (University of the Third Age) provides learning and social opportunities for over-50s.
• Community Wellbeing Frameworks are now tracking loneliness and creating localised solutions, particularly in more remote areas.

The Centre for Ageing Better’s theme for 2025 is “Building Social Connections”, highlighting the value of connection and the role we can all play in supporting it, whether as individuals, families, care providers, or communities.

By 2030, 1 in 5 people in the UK will be over 65. That’s nearly 15 million people. As we prepare for this shift, we must prioritise emotional wellbeing and connection, not just health and safety.

Staying socially active is more than a preventative measure, it’s part of what makes life rich and meaningful. Whether it’s a shared laugh, a walk in the park, or a moment of silence with someone who cares, these are the experiences that build joy, resilience, and dignity in later life.