{
  "id": 6398140,
  "title": "A hug and a proper listen still matter later in life, says Costa del Sol expat Steve",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/09/a-hug-and-a-proper-listen-still-matter-later-in-life-says-costa-del",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-09T08:26:08.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Euro Weekly News",
    "slug": "euro-weekly-news",
    "url": "https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/09/09/a-hug-and-a-proper-listen-still-matter-later-in-life-says-costa-del-sol-expat-steve/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Expat Steve, a long-time resident of Costa del Sol, emphasizes the significance of physical and emotional contact for older individuals. After nearly three decades living in the area, half of which were dedicated to working with senior citizens, Steve knows firsthand the importance of such contact. He explains that a simple hug or holding someone's hand, as well as spending time with another individual, can help alleviate feelings of loneliness, isolation, anxiety, and stress in older people. Steve points out that when an older person requires these things, they chiefly seek reassurance that they are being heard and valued.\n\nRegrettably, Steve has observed situations where \"helpers\" engage in one-sided conversations, which are not helpful for older people who simply desire contact. He urges others to listen attentively to older individuals' stories and insights, as many possess a wealth of knowledge worth sharing. Steve further highlights the value of shared conversations, laughter, and small acts of kindness, which have the potential to uplift spirits and boost self-confidence.\n\nHis earlier work on retirement and purpose, as well as keeping an eye on neighbors, align with this sentiment. Age Concern Marbella-San Pedro coffee mornings and participant stories further illustrate the transformative impact of simple gestures of companionship. The World Health Organization recognizes loneliness and social isolation as significant risks to mental health in later life, stressing the importance of meaningful social activity in enhancing mood and overall quality of life.\n\nSteve emphasizes that even a minimal amount of time spent sharing with a neighbor, friend, or acquaintance can have a profound impact. Whether through in-person interactions, brief phone calls, or simply checking that someone is safe and well, human contact is invaluable and priceless. For many older residents, Steve asserts, the difference between merely existing and living their best possible life often hinges on receiving human contact.",
  "summary": "Long-time Costa del Sol expat Steve says physical and emotional contact become more, not less, important with age. After nearly […]",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}