Older people are especially vulnerable to loneliness and it has an effect on health. The elderly become socially isolated for several reasons: getting weaker, no longer being the hub of their family, leaving the workplace, the deaths of spouses and friends, going through illness… One consequence of this isolation is depression, which can be worsened by the stigma surrounding loneliness. This is a very serious issue and if you are reading this and feeling identified, you should take action to find ways to connect with other people. 

A smile is the best way to start a conversation. When you smile at others, you transmit good vibes, which is crucial for making others want to talk to you. Talk to the person next to you on the bus, talk to the cashier, and talk to you neighbours… Talking is an excellent way to get rid of loneliness. 

You can invite friends or relatives for tea, but if you prefer for someone else to host, there is a way: Contact the Elderly (http://www.contact-the-elderly.org.uk/) is a charity that holds free Sunday afternoon tea parties for people aged 75 and over who live alone. This is an excellent way to spend time with other people and make new friends. 

You can also get involved in your local community activities such as writing and reading clubs. And what about volunteering? All the experience you have got over the years will be appreciated. There are many volunteering opportunities in Lewisham. Just take a look at Lewisham Council website (http://www.lewisham.gov.uk/).  

If you need tips on how to stop feeling lonely, you can download a guide published by Independent Age: https://www.independentage.org/sites/default/files/2016-11/Advice-Guide-If-youre-feeling-lonely.pdf As you can see, there are many ways to reduce loneliness, just find the one that suits you best.