In the UK, 7.7 million British people live alone, according to the Office of National Statistics. That’s fine.
The problem comes in when it affects a person’s quality of life. Although many can thrive by themselves, studies suggest that this arrangement does have correlations to mental health disorders. These include depression and anxiety. Further, solo dwellers can be at a higher risk of severe injury and mortality. This is because they might not receive medical help immediately.
This is a contributed post and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Meet The Harris Family.
Living alone is a matter of choice, but one needs to plan it to make sure it doesn’t affect the quality of life. How can these individuals do it?
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Improve the Gardens
Those living alone can get help from specialists in landscaping in Kent or London. A well-manicured lawn provides plenty of benefits to the homeowner that goes beyond increasing property value:
- It encourages the person to spend more time outdoors. In turn, it can enhance their physical fitness and boost their immunity.
- Gardening is a healthy exercise. Simply pulling weeds can already burn 200 calories an hour.
- It brings nature closer to the individual. Many studies already showed that being surrounded by nature can reduce stress levels and improve feelings of anxiety.
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Modify the Home to Fit Your Needs
This suggestion is handy for British seniors who decide to age in place. In the country, the population is aging. Within 50 years, those who are 65 years old and above can surpass 8 million. Many of them, meanwhile, decide to live in the same house or neighborhood rather than move to another country or even a nursing facility.
- Older individuals, though, have different risks than the younger population. For instance, they are now more prone to injuries, mainly falls that result in fractures. They can learn to mitigate these odds by modifying their property. Some examples include:
- Using home automation, such as motion-sensor lighting systems
- Installing more lighting fixtures
- Adding handrails in the bathroom
- Changing doors to sliding ones to reduce the use of the wrists or improve wheelchair access
- Enhancing barrier-free spaces
- Living in single-story homes as much as possible
- Lowering sinks and faucets
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Get Help
Many people prefer to live alone because they like independence. This freedom, however, doesn’t mean they should no longer receive help. They can assign someone, such as a family member or a friend, as a person to be notified in case of emergencies. They are the ones the solo dwellers would have to call if they need urgent help.
They can schedule professional services, from cleaning to even healthcare assistance. Luckily, the UK already has hundreds of businesses that will appeal to those who are into solo living.
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Find a Purpose
Some of the oldest living people in the world are the Okinawans. The average lifespan of these Japanese people is around 83 years old, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Globally, it’s only 72 years old.
Although these seniors eat a healthy diet, they also follow one philosophy called ikigai, which means finding one’s purpose. This concept is no longer anecdotal as more studies show that it can improve one’s quality of life by:
- Finding satisfaction in the things people do, even at work
- Seeking hobbies or passion that resonate with them
- Having the chance to live a more fulfilled life
- Urging the individual to take care of their physical and mental health to continue their purpose
Living alone doesn’t need to be lonely, but it doesn’t have to be dangerous to one’s health and mind either. Ultimately, it’s about finding the perfect balance between independence and community.
