Why Fighting Loneliness is Essential to Older Adult Health

Older adults often struggle with feeling lonely and isolated as they age. They may attribute this to the natural progression of being less active and the death of friends and social contacts. However, fighting loneliness is essential to older adult health. Giving in to social isolation can result in serious health risks, and even premature death. Here’s why it happens and what you can do to help the older adults in your life stay connected.

Being Alone vs Loneliness vs Social Isolation

Being alone isn’t the same as being lonely, or feeling socially isolated. Loneliness is a form of mental and emotional distress caused by feeling alone or separated from others. In other words, it is not being alone that is the problem but experiencing distress because of it. Social isolation, on the other hand, is a lack of social contacts and engagement with others.

You can feel lonely even when surrounded by other people, and you can be alone without feeling lonely or isolated. Many people value their time alone. If you identify as an “introvert” you may prioritize seclusion and place a high value on solo activities that allow you to recharge and engage your mind. There’s nothing wrong with that.

Loneliness is a Challenge for Older Adults

Older adults face special challenges for social isolation and loneliness than younger, working-age adults because of changes in their health, difficulties with transportation, and the loss of family and friends. Many retirees and seniors feel distress over this loss of connection. Other physical and mental health issues like memory loss, disability, or a loss of hearing or vision can also make it harder to stay in contact with those a person loves.

And this can have a significant negative impact on older adult health. Research suggests that chronic loneliness can have severe physical and mental health consequences and is correlated with:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Chronic stress
• Insomnia
• Alcoholism
• Dementia, including Alzheimer’s Disease
• Cognitive decline
• Reduced immune system
• High blood pressure
• Obesity
• Heart Disease
• Stroke
• Suicide
• Premature death

According to the National Institute on Aging, fighting loneliness is essential for older adult health because people who are socially isolated or lonely are more likely to be admitted to the emergency room or nursing home.

People of all ages struggled with loneliness during the pandemic, but for many older adults, the problem persists, and may even be more difficult, now that the world has more or less resumed its normal pace. Loneliness can make it harder to break out of negative thought spirals such as self-blame or low self-worth. These maladaptive thoughts can make it harder for the lonely person to reach out to loved ones or engage in social activities, perpetuating a dangerous cycle of isolation. Feeling lonely can also change the way older adults see the world, causing them to feel threatened or to distrust others.

Strategies for Fighting Loneliness for Older Adults and Their Families

If you are an older adult struggling with loneliness, or have a loved one you feel is becoming socially isolated, there are things you can do to fight loneliness and promote a healthy life.

Take Care of Your Health

Loneliness can be perpetuated by unhealthy lifestyle choices including sedentary behaviors, poor eating habits, and a reliance on alcohol. To reduce the physical effects of loneliness, take steps to remain physically and mentally healthy through exercise, a healthy diet, and a regular sleep routine. There are many options available for seniors through local community centers and religious groups, which can often be modified to accommodate an older adult’s physical limitations.

Stay Connected Through Group Activities

A great way to combat social isolation is to sign up for meaningful, productive group activities that you enjoy. This could include volunteering, gardening, book clubs, or art classes. Many senior living facilities have a social calendar with these kinds of events. That is because staying engaged in activities can give you a sense of purpose, which is linked to better health and improved cognitive function.

Schedule Contacts with Family and Friends

Having a set time when you will speak to family and friends can give older adults something to look forward to and interrupt those unhealthy thought patterns. In addition, it can make it easier for younger adults to include contact in an otherwise busy schedule. Regular contact with family and friends gives older adults an opportunity to share their feelings and strengthen their relationships. These don’t have to be telephone calls either. Older adults can text or use video calling apps such as FaceTime or Zoom. If technology is a struggle, they can write letters or send cards, or loved ones can set up smart speakers to do the work for them.

Consider Adopting a Pet

Older adults who are still physically capable can do a lot to fight loneliness by bringing a four-legged companion into their homes. Caring for a cat or dog can be a source of comfort. There is also some evidence that they can relieve stress and lower blood pressure.

Get Connected with Your Neighbors

Whether you live in an assisted living facility or in a long-time family home, you can do a lot toward fighting loneliness simply by introducing yourself to your neighbors. Chance encounters with those closest to you can interrupt negative thoughts. Knowing someone is nearby looking out for you can help if you struggle with depression or suicidal thoughts. There is also the practical benefit of having someone to call if something goes wrong while you are home alone.

Work with a Psychotherapist to Fight Loneliness After Negative Life Events

Negative life events such as the death of a close friend or companion, or relocation to a new home, can make loneliness more distressing. If the strain of loneliness and grief becomes too much, a psychotherapist can help you work through your feelings and develop new ways to cope. With time, you will be able to reestablish healthy social connections and a better outlook on life.

David Stanislaw is a psychotherapist with over 35 years of experience who helps individuals  learn strategies for addressing chronic loneliness.  Contact David Stanislaw to get help today.