Senior isolation and elderly loneliness become a greater part of life as the years pass by. Many factors contribute to both, including loss of friends and family connections or even physical limitations like hearing loss or vision problems.
While different, isolation and loneliness are closely interrelated because the feelings are similar. Isolation means without social connections. Loneliness is simply the heavy feeling of being alone.
Seniors living in isolation may feel lonely; and yet, seniors who have many connections and are socially active may also feel lonely at times, too.
Feelings of loneliness contribute to serious physical and emotional conditions, such as:
People of all ages can experience loneliness or feelings of isolation. Throughout the pandemic, both took on a whole new meaning as even regular daily routines and work suddenly stopped.
Because both feelings happened across societies, even normalized for a year, a new level of acceptance and awareness resulted. It’s hard to talk about feeling lonely, especially if a seniors feel embarrassed or ashamed to ask for help. The good news is that many organizations and communities offer real ways to prevent and reduce elderly loneliness.
3) Be proactive. Often, when overwhelmed by feelings of loneliness, it’s easy to wait for someone to call or invite you out. Instead of waiting, think of someone else who might enjoy an outing or visit and reach out first.
4) Get involved. Volunteering often takes the focus off a personal situation. The local library or a church can help connect you to possible opportunities close to home.
5) Take advantage of technology. It’s never been easier to stay connected. With mobile phones, tablets, Facetime, and texting, maintaining regular conversations with loved ones or friends only takes minutes. Photos and videos can shrink the distance and are fun to revisit at any time.
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