Berwick local Marion was in for a charming surprise when her home care worker, Liana Krone invited her for an outing on what can be a joyous day for some but a lonesome day for others.
The 86 year old who lives alone was planning to spend Christmas by herself last year, but in a heart-warming gesture from Liana, the pair instead spent the day celebrating with a lunch, complete with a full roast, dessert and gifts.
For Liana, it wasn’t just about the special holiday, but also about combatting the loneliness often felt by older communties.
Liana has known and cared for Marion for over four years and sees her three times a week.
“Knowing that her family lives interstate and overseas, I knew from early on that Marion would be spending Christmas Day by herself,” Liana said.
It falls in line with new research initiations by Federation University that aim to highlight innovative strategies to mitigate loneliness and enhance mental health for those living in aged-care homes.
The University will be partnering with home care provider, Silverchain, to develop evidence-based interventions that aim to be implemented across several aged care facilities.
According to Tanya Davison, Silverchain’s Director of Research Discovery, contributing factors such as limited social activity or social networks, poor perceived health and depressed mood can often be exacerbated among people living in home aged care.
Silverchain’s Director of Research Discovery, Adjunct Professor Tanya Davison, said loneliness is considered an epidemic and a major public health risk.
“This emphasises the need for targeted research and intervention for this vulnerable group,” Adj Prof. Davison said.
These findings are echoed by Liana, who sees firsthand the impact of loneliness, which she describes as “quite common” among older Australians.
“I have noticed that for many older Australians, the loss of a partner, declining health including loss of mobility and independence, and a decrease in connections with other people increases the feeling of loneliness,” she said.
“On a day to day basis, it can be something as basic as not having a conversation with anyone that can increase their feelings of loneliness.
“Often the elderly who have reduced mobility and are living alone no longer have daily structures which can in turn leave voids in their day.
“Instead of filling those voids I have noticed clients just sitting watching television, sleeping or losing interest in the things they once did and enjoyed.”
From her frontline experience, Marion says she sees the spark in a client’s eye when she speaks to them with respect and treats them as a friend.
“Discovering those mutual interests, having respect… showing that you care and are interested in them and actively listen to what they have to say can make them feel valued and appreciated,” she said.
“Trust and a shared vulnerability can be formed with a sense of belonging.
“Knowing how I would have wanted my grandmother to be cared for has helped me immensely in my job itself, and my approach to the care I provide to my clients.
“If I can make my clients happy or even give a smile, then it brings me much happiness and the reason why I love my job.”
