A hug and a proper listen still matter later in life, says Costa del Sol expat Steve

Long-time Costa del Sol expat Steve says physical and emotional contact become more, not less, important with age. After nearly 30 years here, half of them spent working with and listening to older people, he is clear what that contact is for.

“A hug or holding someone’s hand or just spending time with another individual can reduce feelings of loneliness, isolation, anxiety and stress,” Steve writes. “When an older person finds themselves in this situation all they want is reassurance that they are being listened to and that they still have worth.”

Listen first, talk second

Too often that is missing. “Too many times I have witnessed ‘helpers’ carrying on a conversation that is one sided,” he says. Older people reach out to touch because they want contact, not a monologue.

“Please don’t just talk to an older person, listen to what they have to say. Older people really do know so much and would love to share their insights with another person.”

Many have lost a partner or see family less. “A shared conversation, laughter and simple acts of kindness have the power to lift spirits and improve confidence,” Steve adds. “Isn’t that something that we all crave?”

His earlier notes on retirement and purpose and checking on older neighbours sit in the same vein. Age Concern Marbella–San Pedro coffee mornings and member stories show how quickly company can change a day.

Contact is not a luxury

Research backs the gut feeling. The World Health Organization lists loneliness and social isolation as key risks for later-life mental health, and says meaningful social activity can lift mood and quality of life.

Steve keeps it simple. “Whatever free time you have to share with a neighbour, friend or acquaintance is more valuable than you can ever imagine. Whether it’s in person, a brief phone call or just checking that another person is safe and well. We all need human contact. It’s priceless.”

For many older residents, he says, that is the difference “between simply existing and living their best possible life.”