Loneliness can affect anyone, no matter their age. If you move or change schools when you are young, you may feel lonely until you make new friends. For the elderly, however, it isn’t always that simple. As people age, life events like children leaving or friends passing can leave seniors feeling lonely. Social isolation increases risks of depression, heart disease, and cognitive decline. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports a growing number of people aged 65 and older, and many of these seniors are already in poor health, increasing their likelihood of social isolation or loneliness. This blog discusses how social isolation impacts health, offering suggestions to overcome loneliness.
How Loneliness in Elderly Loved Ones Impacts Health
Loneliness and social isolation are related but each has its own characteristic. Loneliness describes a distressful feeling of separation from others, while social isolation refers to the actual lack of contact with them. The changes experienced by many adults as they age can have a significant effect on their health and well-being. Some seniors who are lonely and lack social interaction will avoid exercising and use alcohol to dull their feelings. This can lower their immunity and increase the risk of illness. Such a vulnerable state is also bad for brain health. Loneliness and social isolation can cause seniors to neglect routine tasks like paying bills, driving, and self-care. The following is a short list of some of the other health impacts that loneliness and social isolation can incur:
- Hypertension
- Weight gain or loss
- Heart Disease
- Depression and Anxiety
- Cognitive Decline, Dementia and Alzheimer’s
- Death
Certain challenges can increase the risk of loneliness and social isolation in seniors, including:
- Physical changes such as the loss of mobility, or vision and hearing problems
- Cognitive or psychological challenges
- A major life change such as the death of a spouse or other family member
- Living alone or in a rural or unsafe neighborhood
- Financial problems
- Retirement and the loss of a feeling of purpose
📌 How to Recognize Loneliness in Elderly Loved Ones
Your loved one might not directly state their loneliness, but they’ll likely show it. Look for these signs to understand their feelings:
- Are they avoiding social gatherings? If your loved one is saying no to family, church or club gatherings they used to enjoy, it may be because they are feeling socially isolated.
- Have they lost interest in hobbies? Many seniors, once their children are grown or they retire, pursue hobbies that keep them busy and interested in life. Not pursuing hobbies that were a source of enjoyment is a sign that feelings of loneliness and isolation have taken over.
- Is your senior loved one more irritable or sad? These are clear signs – especially if these behaviors indicate a significant change – that feelings of loneliness and separation are present.
- Has their sleeping, eating or spending habits changed? Such changes may be traced to the loss of a spouse or other family member or friend. They can also be signs of loneliness in general. Eating more, drinking alcohol to excess and spending on unnecessary items are all signs that may indicate feelings of loneliness and lack of social contact.
- Is your elderly loved one experiencing more illnesses? As previously stated, there are many chronic conditions that can be caused or exacerbated by loneliness and social isolation. These include hypertension, heart disease, cognitive decline and more.
- Are they neglecting personal care? Does your loved one, who once cared about their appearance, now seem to neglect bathing or grooming? These are signs that they are detaching from the routine daily self-care that used to be important to them and sinking into feelings of loneliness.
- Do they seek constant reassurance? Has loneliness in your elderly loved one caused them to seem more vulnerable and in need of unceasing feedback that they are loved and cared for? This is another sign of the insecurity that loneliness and social isolation can cause.
💡 Practical Solutions to Combat Loneliness in Elderly Loved Ones
If you have noticed signs of loneliness or social isolation in an elderly loved one, or you find that you are feeling lonely, there are steps you can take to become less socially isolated. There are many benefits that come with feeling more connected to others. As your or your loved one’s enjoyment of life improves, it can deliver an overall sense of well-being. Here are some suggestions for ways to connect with others and combat loneliness:
- Connect with loved ones on a regular basis. If you live far from family and friends, technology can help. Schedule online video calls that can bring you close without having to travel. Plan in-person visits with your elderly loved ones whenever possible – regularly planned visits from family and friends can do so much to alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness. If you live close to a loved one, plan shared outings such as a walk in the park, shopping at the mall or a meal at a restaurant.
- Pursue meaningful activities. If you or your loved one is able, volunteer work can be an excellent way to counter loneliness while regaining purpose in life. Many senior groups engage in charitable activities benefiting all age groups, and seniors helping other seniors offers a wonderful way to feel connected while doing meaningful work. Look for opportunities and get involved with other seniors in your local area
- Get interested in a hobby or learn a new craft. Many seniors are fortunate in that they have a hobby already established. If your loved one plays an instrument or enjoys woodworking or painting or some other hobby, helping them regain interest in it can provide more purpose in their lives. Pursuing a new hobby also benefits brain health and many communities offer a variety of classes that can help you or a loved one connect with others while learning something new..
- Find a pet. A pet can be a great companion for your loved one, especially if they have owned pets at some time in their lives and are able to take care of a dog or a cat. Honest Medical has a blog with details about the advantages of pet ownership for seniors.
- Find a program that is intergenerational. Working with younger people toward a common goal is a great way to keep your mind sharp while engaging in enjoyable activities. The national CoGenerate program brings together young and old participants to bridge the age gap and introduce new energy to solving problems while pursuing mutual interests. Visit their website to learn about programs in your area.
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