Combating Loneliness
Loneliness and social isolation among seniors are a growing public health concern in the United States. A recent report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) found that more than one-third of adults 45 and older consider themselves lonely, which increases their risk of serious health conditions, such as dementia and heart disease.
While loneliness may be challenging to identify and live with, there are steps seniors can take to reduce loneliness to improve their overall health and well-being.
What Is Loneliness?
Loneliness is the feeling of being alone, regardless of social contact. Some individuals may suffer from loneliness because they are socially isolated, meaning they don’t have access to connect with other people. However, people can experience loneliness even when physically surrounded by others because they’re unable to connect with the people around them.
Does Loneliness Affect Health?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there’s strong evidence to suggest that loneliness can negatively affect the health of older adults. Loneliness and social isolation can increase the risk of premature death, dementia, heart disease, and stroke.
But it’s not only physical health that is at risk for lonely or isolated seniors. Loneliness is associated with higher risks of depression and anxiety. In some cases, loneliness may even lead to self-harm or suicidal thoughts.
Signs Of Loneliness
Loneliness among seniors is challenging to identify, especially if the individual is physically surrounded by others, such as in a community home or living with loved ones. Regardless of an individual's social life, a few signs that may signify loneliness include:
- Changes to sleep, such as poor sleep or insomnia
- Changes in appetite
- Difficulty concentrating
- Loss of interest in activities
- Mood swings
- Feeling overwhelmed by basic tasks
- Fatigue
Reducing Loneliness
If you’re an older adult who feels lonely, there are things you can do to help feel more connected to those around you.
- Schedule time with a loved one. A phone call, video chat, lunch date, or neighborhood outing with someone you love is a great way to build or rekindle a connection. You can also visit other local seniors at the Daphne Senior Center.
- Join a club. Clubs are an excellent way to connect with people with similar interests or hobbies. Nearly every hobby has a club you can join, some of which are virtual, so you can meet new people from the comfort of your home. Check out the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce’s website where they have a list of family, community, and civic organizations local to the area.
- Spend time outdoors. Sometimes, spending time outside the house and connecting with nature can elevate your mood and make you feel more connected to the world around you. This can be in your own backyard, or somewhere nearby like Daphne Bayfront Park.
- Adopt a pet. Not all social connections need to be with other humans. Many people find a validating connection with pets, especially cats and dogs. Consider calling or visiting the Daphne Animal Shelter. They have an adoption program you can apply for. Or, if taking on a pet of your own sounds a little too overwhelming, consider fostering a pet or volunteering your time and services to care for the animals in the shelter.
- Work with a professional caregiver. One of the many services provided by professional caregivers is companionship. Caregivers are there to join you as you watch your favorite shows, enjoy meals, run errands, and indulge in hobbies. Having a go-to person available to uplift you when needed can significantly improve your overall well-being.
Please contact our local office to learn more about professional caregiving services at Visiting Angels. Our Daphne office serves seniors in Baldwin County and the greater Mobile area.