Country living has lots of benefits, but social isolation and loneliness can be two major downsides. This blog explores the causes of rural isolation, who it affects and how to combat social isolation and loneliness with crafts.
What is social isolation?
‘Social isolation’ is defined as a lack of meaningful social contacts or people you interact with regularly. This can lead to a diminished social circle and little time spent out of the house or in others’ company.
Recent studies report that 18% of Scots have limited regular social contact in their neighbourhoods (Scottish Social Attitudes survey, 2013) and 21% feel that they don't have a strong sense of belonging to their local community (Scottish Household Survey, 2017).
Is social isolation the same as being lonely?
Social isolation is not the same as feeling lonely. Loneliness is a feeling of emptiness or distress at being separated or alone. Some people need more social interaction than others, therefore someone who is socially isolated may not feel lonely. Conversely, someone might feel lonely while regularly interacting with people. Often, it’s the perceived quality and/or quantity of social interactions that can lead a person to lonely.
What are the risks of social isolation?
Feeling isolated and lonely can negatively affect your physical and mental health.
Prolonged social isolation and loneliness can increase the likelihood of depression and the risk of developing clinical dementia. The World Health Organisation (WHO) ranks loneliness as more damaging to a person’s health than smoking or obesity.
Blood pressure, higher stress levels, poor sleep and a depressed immune system are also reported side effects of social isolation. Increased consumption of alcohol and overeating as coping strategies are further risks.
Those living in rural areas who experience social isolation are also more likely to be admitted to care homes earlier and experience more frequent hospital visits.
How do I spot people in my community who might be at risk of social isolation?
Do you know someone who has recently lost a partner or had a fall that’s left them homebound? Maybe a friend has become a carer to an elderly relative and you don’t see them as much. Or perhaps you know someone struggling with recent sight or hearing loss?
All the above can cause people to withdraw and become disconnected from their community.
Young people are also vulnerable, especially in rural areas where there may not be facilities to keep them entertained or they can’t access transport to visit friends.
A Connected Scotland report that social isolation or loneliness can affect anyone but that the groups most vulnerable to social isolation and loneliness are:
* children and adults who are socio-economically disadvantaged
* those experiencing poor physical and mental health
* adults who are living alone, widowed or separated.
* new parents
* minority ethnic groups
* those from LGBTI communities
* carers
Factors found to increase rural isolation and loneliness were:
* Lack of public transport
* Lack of community facilities
* Shop and service closures
* Infrequent public transport
What can be done to reduce social isolation and loneliness in rural communities?
Befriending networks, community transport schemes and coffee mornings make a huge difference in rural communities.
Luckily there are lots of groups in the Blairgowrie area committed to promoting our rural community’s wellbeing.
Local groups like The Friendship Café in Rattray Hall provide an opportunity for people to meet new friends, reminisce and a reason to leave the house. Even an hour or two spent in friendly company can boost your mood.
Ways Nest is helping tackle social isolation in the Blairgowrie area
Craft has been proven to help combat anxiety, depression, loneliness and even dementia. The BBC’s Great British Creativity Test revealed that crafts like embroidery, crocheting and knitting have the highest participation of all the arts and are therefore ideally suited to help tackle social isolation and loneliness. The study showed that young women in particular experience improved wellbeing through a sense of achievement.
The repetition of craft activities creates a meditative, quiet atmosphere while the required focus and attention provides a distraction from life’s stresses. Mindfulness plays a key role in reducing stress, coping with negative thoughts, and regulating feelings of upset or loneliness.
Furthermore, craft groups can bring a community together. Having a knit and a natter with like-minded souls is a positive way to start your day and helps you feel connected to the wider community.
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At Nest we run regular Creative Wellbeing Workshops sponsored by BRAW to cover materials and tutor costs. If you’d like to learn a new skill and meet new people in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere please come along! Maybe you’re an artist who feels lonely working from home? Why not share your skills at one of our workshops?
We also run our Crafty Café every Monday. It’s our crafters social where everyone grabs a cup of tea and their project and gets chatting and crafting around the table. Even those new to crafting will enjoy the friendly and supportive atmosphere.
On Thursday the 10th February, you can craft Decorative Hearts with Sheila Roussel using a wide selection of decorative papers and embellishments such as buttons and ribbons to create a stunning heart garland, picture, card or whatever your heart desires!
All materials are provided, and refreshments are included in the £5 fee. You’ll also receive a 10% discount off any single purchase in our Remnant shop – all the more reason to come back!
If you’re lonely, struggling with social isolation or know someone who might be, please get in touch with us. We’re a friendly bunch and would love to welcome you into our Nest family.