The “Wisdom on Living with Loneliness” booklet is a collection of personal reflections shared directly by Eldercare residents. Through real-life stories, they explore their experiences with loneliness, both throughout their lives and in aged care, and offer their insights, advice, and strategies for coping with loneliness.

Eldercare initiative lead Chelsea Size added that each of us have different stories to share about what has helped us through times of loneliness or what has protected us from them.

“We hope this booklet might assist others living with loneliness in their day to day lives, whether that’s in aged care or elsewhere in life,” said Chelsea.

Eldercare Chief Executive Jane Pickering said: “Through the booklet we aim to reduce stigma around loneliness, encourage further conversations and build a culture of connection for residents, families and staff.”

After reading the booklet, Eldercare resident Averil said: “I really thought ‘that’s me’ when reading stories in the booklet. I have experienced and felt similar things and the stories really resonated. I think this booklet will help other residents with loneliness.”

The booklet is the result of multiple conversations between residents and Eldercare’s Spiritual Care team, which was informed by narrative therapy, a style of counselling that focuses on an individual’s story or stories.