Coventry charity preventing loneliness in elderly this winter
Age UK are looking to promote mental stimulation through a range of activities
Elderly people in Coventry are being encouraged to get involved in a range of activities to help with feelings of loneliness and isolation ahead of the winter months.
Age UKs activity centre, at the Gilbert Richards building in Earlsdon, are providing older people with a variety of groups and classes that allow participants to explore new hobbies, learn new skills, and meet new people.
The charity warns darker nights, and cold weather makes it harder for people to get out and about – causing many to feel lonely or out of sorts.
Volunteer at the Centre, Diana Slocombe, said: “As we say farewell to the warm summer days filled with holidays and trips, it’s time to look ahead to the activities that will enrich our retirement or spare time in the coming months.
“It's so easy to get a little bit low if you're not feeling very well, or if you haven't seen your family recently. For those of us who continue to go out and take part, it's not a problem.
“It's not exciting going out when it's dark and dank around you and when you're waiting for busses, it does make things more difficult. So many people sort of switch off in the winter, but there's no need, particularly if you can come along to a group like ours during the day.”
The Centre is looking to kick start their autumn activities by sharing the classes that they’re operating, including IT and computer clubs, social clubs, knitting and crochet and watercolour classes.
There are many other classes which are ran on a weekly basis.
More information can be found here. https://www.ageuk.org.uk/coventryandwarwickshire/activities-and-events/