A Silverchain led study reveals a heartbreaking truth: one in four older Australians struggle with social disconnection and loneliness - a condition closely linked to serious health issues like dementia, heart disease and even premature death.
Yet despite its devastating impact, loneliness remains one of the most underfunded areas of research in Australia.
To tackle this crisis, Silverchain’s mental health experts launched the Silverchain Lunch Club program - a new weekly online gathering for older Australians to connect, share stories and enjoy meaningful companionship.
The Silverchain Lunch Club is having a profound impact – restoring a sense of community to those who feel isolated or alone, no matter where they live.
Social engagement isn’t just a nice to have, it’s essential for wellbeing and we need your donation to give more older people a sense of connection.
Loneliness is already an epidemic in our community. Your donation can help Silverchain reverse this trend and support more older Australians feel connected to their community and a sense of belonging.
Margaret’s story: Finding connection after loss.
After 57 years of waking up next to her husband Steven, Margaret now struggles with loneliness since he passed away two years ago. Despite visits from her Silverchain care team twice a week, she is mostly alone, with her children living interstate.
A few months ago, Margaret decided to join the Silverchain Lunch Club. An initiative designed to help older Australians like her stay connected and socially engaged through weekly online gatherings. The Lunch Club has provided Margaret with a sense of being listened to, seen, and valued again, and she now looks forward to the weekly catch ups.
Your gift can help reduce loneliness
Improve health and quality of life
Loneliness is strongly linked to serious health issues like dementia, heart disease and early death. Your gift can help reduce social isolation which will improve physical and mental health as well as the overall quality of life for older people.
Combat loneliness in older Australians
Many older people, like Margaret, struggle with loneliness after losing a loved one. Your gift can connect more people to the Silverchain Lunch Club providing a vital opportunity for them to share experiences and enjoy companionship – no matter where they live.
Provide essential support and resources
Your donation provides access to mental health and wellbeing initiatives no matter how tech-savvy someone is or where they live, ensuring everyone can participate.