Undervalued and alone: Report on social isolation

Stefanie SchultzDecember 9, 2024

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As we celebrate the 'most wonderful time of the year' it is important to remember that many people within the community, particularly older Australians, may need a little extra help to feel merry and bright.

A recent report from the Council on the Ageing NSW (COTA NSW) shows that 60 per cent of older adults in NSW are lonely, 25 per cent are experiencing extreme levels of loneliness, and 50 per cent are socially isolated.

The Voices of Solitude: Loneliness and Social Isolation Among Older Adults in NSW found that many older people across the state feel “undervalued.“

COTA NSW chief Gohar Yazdabadi called the evident social isolation among older people living in NSW a “crisis we cannot afford to overlook.“

“Our findings paint a devastating picture of the extent of loneliness and social isolation among those aged 50-plus in our community,“ Ms Yazdabadi.

“Loneliness has profound impacts on the lives of older adults, it prevents one in four adults from completing everyday tasks such as shopping and cooking, and one in five from seeking medical care.

“The feelings of being undervalued and without a support network are a terrible reflection of ageism and the way we value older people in our society, the impacts of which are keenly felt.”

COTA NSW's Voices of Solitude report is part of the organisation's submission to the Parliamentary Standing Committee’s inquiry into the impacts of loneliness, announced in August.

Inquiry chair Sarah Kaine MLC said she is looking forward to involving both experts and the community during inquiry proceedings.

“The face of loneliness is often unexpected and touches many in our community. Almost everyone has felt alone at some point in their lives and I think it is important our political leaders are taking notice and taking action.”

Making a difference

Australian aged care provider TriCare has made spreading joy their mission this summer, organising a series of holiday themed social events to help engage residents.

TriCare Mt Gravatt Retirement Village manager Louise Mathers said that fostering connection during the holidays helps residents to enjoy what can potentially be a very difficult time.

“Our residents at Mt Gravatt are very active, both socially and physically, and love taking part in activities that bring people together and help brighten their day,” said Ms Mathers.

“Social activities are a great way to get residents out of their rooms and connecting with one another. We have a wide variety of activities available to suit everyone’s interests and keep them occupied during the Christmas period, which can be difficult for many.

“This year we will be hosting activities such as a Christmas lights decorating and door wreath competitions that will encourage residents to spread some Christmas cheer throughout the facility and provide comfort knowing they are supported by their second family here at TriCare Mt Gravatt.”

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