What to do if your father or mother is lonely
Many children notice at some point that their father or mother feels alone more often. For example, after a partner has passed away or when mobility decreases.
This can be a difficult situation. You want to help, but you cannot always be there.
Praat er voorzichtig over
A first step could be to cautiously bring up the subject.
For example, by asking:
- Do you still have enough contact with people?
- Shall we plan something fun together sometime?
- “Mist u soms gezelschap?”
Open conversations can help share feelings of loneliness.
Structure and contact often help
Many older people feel better when there are regular moments of contact.
Bijvoorbeeld:
- a fixed walking day
- eating together
- een wekelijks bezoekmoment
- a joint activity
When extra support can be nice
When family is not always available, it can help when someone else visits regularly for company and activities.
Read more about this: Loneliness Companion
