Conquering Loneliness with Pay TV

"The one thing my wife wanted was a big plasma."

When John Flanagan and his wife sold their family home to move into Nelson's Grove Retirement Village, his wife had her mind set on just one purchase: a big plasma to replace their old 1971 television. Neither of them can believe the difference it has made to their lives - what were once just television programs have come alive. They are now excited by the viewing options available and the way the world is brought to their living room.

Indeed, one of the fastest growing markets for Pay TV is seniors, thanks in part to the increasing appreciation that quality television can play a large role in warding off depression caused by isolation.

A number of trends are causing older people to lose contact with their family and community and, with this, losing interaction with other people on a daily or even weekly basis. These include: decline in marriage; the movement of children inter-state and overseas; losing the ability to drive; and the decline of local shopping areas.

The more accessible pricing of Pay TV has meant that older people can now have a higher standard of television companionship that traditionally provided by free-to-air. Not only do they have an almost unlimited supply of movies, but also 24-hour news of the highest standard, plus a wealth of other program. Psychologists point out that exposure to quality news gives more colours to the viewers' perspective and generates inquisitiveness and confidence about the world around us. Viewers are more likely to seek out conversation and present developed views. This confidence also promotes connection with a local community. All this can be termed as an increased sense of worth and social identity.

The routine of simply watching programs that have worth is also valuable. Routine is deemed vital to our wellbeing, especially in countering depression. It gives structure and reassurance to the day. The noted ‘transition' psychologist, Anne Bunt, gives six key elements to thriving in our later lives.

They are:

1. Make taking care of yourself a priority
2. Maintain a routine that includes activities that give a sense of purpose, pleasure and achievement
3. Stay connected with friends, family and your community
4. Acknowledge that change is an inevitable and normal part of life
5. Continue to set realistic, achievable goals and take action steps to achieve them
6. Stay positive and hopeful about the future, whatever challenges it may bring

Pay TV is an easy tool to stimulate us mentally and to assist in staying connected with the world and feeling positive. At $29.95 per month for the SelecTV service or $360 a year, PayTV has never been more accessible. Installation averages $150-$450.

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