A recent joint study conducted interviews with over 300 individuals aged 60 and above to assess their loneliness levels, with an average score of 3.56 out of six. The proportion of elderly people experiencing moderate to severe loneliness has increased from 35.3% to 68.3% in recent years.
Those without children or a spouse reported higher levels of loneliness. Factors contributing to this rise include migration trends, an aging population, and low fertility rates. To address this issue, the Salvation Army launched a therapeutic program to help improve mental health among the elderly residents.
Participants have reported positive outcomes, with one individual, Wang Suk-Yin, sharing how the program helped her set new goals and engage in activities like singing and dancing. The acceptance and commitment therapy provided by social workers aims to enhance mental elasticity and self-esteem.
The increase in loneliness among the elderly has become a concern, prompting the government to introduce a carer support hotline. The hotline has received over 16,000 calls, with the majority seeking emotional or community support services. This initiative aims to provide much-needed assistance and resources to those in need.