Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 09:00 - 17:30 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
Or call 0345 90 80 161
14 March 2013 09:22
Older people are in the grip of a "loneliness epidemic", according to research.
A "loneliness epidemic" is sweeping Britain - with the average person over 65 spending more than 100 days alone each year, a new survey says. This age group spends a total of more than 66 million hours alone every day, according to a report commissioned by the Associated Retirement Community Operators (Arco).
The study found almost a quarter of over-65s (24%) were lonely some or most of the time. Modern life means many people's families live overseas, but the latest research may remind grown-up children living abroad to invite their parents for a visit, reminding them to arrange seniors travel insurance first.
Nearly one in five (18%) of over-75s sometimes go a full weekend without seeing and speaking to another human being. Opinium Research's survey of 1,030 people aged over 65 found they spend an average of 6.4 waking hours alone each day.
Multiplied by the UK's 10.4 million over-65 population, this gives a figure of more than 66 million hours spent alone each day. Arco chairman Jon Gooding said: "We are in the grip of a loneliness epidemic."
18 April 2019
Going away with your children? Beat the stress of travelling with your family with these great travel tips. Here's what you need to know if you're travelling with kids this Easter.
[more...]
16 April 2019
Heading to Madrid? Here's our guide to six must-see places you should visit in the Spanish capital, from food markets to fine art and plenty in between.
10 April 2019
Experience the magic of Madrid's Fiesta de San Isidro 2019! Discover where to stay, what to eat and what to see as you explore one of Spain's greatest festivals.
Experience Seville's intoxicating Feria de Abril and discover Andalucía's most famous festival! Here's your ultimate guide to La Feria.
01 April 2019
Songkran is Thailand's famous New Year's festival - and the world's biggest water fight. Here's everything you need to know before you plan your trip.
Travelling to Thailand? Learn the important local traditions and cultures to ensure you act respectfully in 'The land of a thousand smiles.'
Travelling overseas with young children? Make going through the airport easy and stress-free by following these top tips for surviving the airport with kids when flying.
25 March 2019
Discover the best places to learn to scuba dive! Check out our list of top dive locations around the world that are perfect for scuba diving beginners.
Looking for some late-season skiing? Here are some of the best places for spring skiing in Europe where you can enjoy reliable snow cover.
19 March 2019
Looking for adventure? Create your perfect Scandinavian weekend with these alternative city break ideas.
Lower your blood pressure with these fresh, healthy foods you can add to your diet.
02 March 2019
A Flybe flight was forced to abort take-off due to the cabin filling with "smoke" while it was accelerating along the runway at Exeter Airport.