Family reunions a ‘huge relief’

A charity has welcomed the lifting of lockdown restrictions that allow older people in Monklands to see their families again.

Age Scotland is “delighted” elderly residents living on their own are allowed to see loved ones as part of an “extended household group”.

Tens of thousands of older people living alone who had been shielding had largely been in isolation for three months, without any face- to- face contact with family or friends.

The huge number of calls to Age Scotland’s free helpline suggests the enforced isolation resulted in a steep rise in loneliness among older people, which has taken its toll on their mental and physical health.

Brian Sloan, the charity’s chief executive, said: “The easing of lockdown for hundreds of thousands of older people living alone comes as a huge relief.

“So many older people endured lockdown without any face- to- face contact with family or friends for three months, and it has been extremely difficult for them.

“For the half a million over-60s in Scotland who don’t use the internet, there wasn’t even the option of video calls with loved ones.

They have had to rely on the phone for conversation.

“The result of such prolonged isolation is that loneliness levels are through the roof and having a profound impact on the mental and physical health of older people.

“This is a small step towards normality, and must of course be done in compliance with safety guidelines; but at last there is light at the end of the tunnel for our older people who have felt very cut off from society during this pandemic.

“They can now look forward to seeing family and friends and when it is safe to do so, being part of their communities again.

“And for anyone who is struggling with loneliness, please call our free friendship line on 0800 12 44 222 for a chat.”