Talking of lonely older people....silverline could come to the rescue!

http://www.thesilverline.org.uk/what-we-do/

Patients visiting GPs out of loneliness

The Campaign to End Loneliness Carried out some research which said that up to ten patients a day who visit GPs for company. It is thought that a lot of these lonely people are over 65. A lot of people go to work, visit friends, visit libraries - although they are closing but the pressing concern for many is that older people are lonely and there could be places that will allow them to feel less lonely. The Idea Stores which operate as libraries in Tower Hamlets, east London run Golden Time sessions bringing older people together. They also provide places for people to sit down, read, stay in the warmth, talk to people. Perhaps authorities should look at initiatives to help with loneliness. It might alleviate some of the health concerns they feel they need to visit GPs about.

Kate Harries has opened something called the Nana cafe in Hackney, east London.   It is run by older ladies from the local area serving home cooked food and beverages.

What a brilliant idea!
To engage older people in their local community, to allow them to meet others like them and others in the community and to create a business idea which empowers older people rather than make them feel like a burden.

If you want to get involved sign up here:
http://www.wearenana.com/join-nana/

GPs to take more responsibility for care of elderly patients

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-24945134