Phone: 0161 250 5341 | Email: info@livingsupported.co.uk
Feeling Forgotten or Abandoned: Support for Older People Living Alone
For older people who feel forgotten, cut off from family or left to cope alone: ways to reconnect and where to get help.
In short
- Feeling forgotten by family or friends hurts. Your feelings are real.
- There are people who want to talk to you. The Silver Line is free, day and night: 0800 4 70 80 90.
- If someone is hurting you, taking your money or not looking after you as they should, call Hourglass free: 0808 808 8141.
Why people feel left behind
Family move away, friends pass away, and visits become less frequent. Some people are estranged from children or relatives. Others simply find that everyone is busy. Feeling forgotten can bring sadness, anger or shame, and it is more common than many people realise.
Ways to reconnect
- Reach out first, even briefly. A short card or message can reopen a door.
- Build new connections. Befriending services, faith groups, clubs and volunteering can bring new friendships at any age.
- Ask for a regular call. Telephone friendship services pair you with a volunteer who calls each week.
- Tell your GP. GP practices can often refer you to a social prescriber who knows local groups and support.
When family relationships are difficult
Estrangement is painful, and there is no single right answer. Some people find it helps to talk it through with someone neutral. Age UK and Independent Age offer advice and can signpost local support.
If you are being neglected or mistreated
No one should be hurt, frightened, financially exploited or left without food, warmth or care. This is abuse, even when it comes from family. Hourglass offers free, confidential advice 24 hours a day. You can also contact your local council’s adult social care team.
Regular, reliable company
A companion who visits at the same time each week can bring back routine, conversation and someone to share the week with.
Where to get help
- If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.
- The Silver Line from Age UK: 0800 4 70 80 90 (free friendship and advice line for older people, 24 hours)
- Hourglass: 0808 808 8141 (free, 24 hours, for anyone worried about the abuse or neglect of an older person)
- Age UK Advice Line: 0800 678 1602 (free, 8am to 7pm, every day)
About Livingsupported: we offer private, non-regulated companionship, home help and lifestyle support across South Manchester, Cheshire and Staffordshire. We do not provide personal, nursing or medical care, counselling or therapy. Request a free home visit or call 0161 250 5341.