All people need to have social interactions to survive and thrive. But as people get older, they often spend more time alone. Being isolated can make older people more vulnerable to loneliness and social isolation , which can affect their health and well-being. Studies show that loneliness and social isolation are associated with increased risks of health problems, such as heart disease, depression, and cognitive decline Kambo practitioner training.
If you are not in good health, you are more likely to feel socially isolated or lonely. If you are socially isolated or lonely, you can put your physical and mental health at risk. Adults who are alone or socially isolated are less healthy, have longer hospital stays, are readmitted to the hospital more frequently, and are more likely to die earlier than those with meaningful and supportive social interactions.
What is the difference between loneliness and social isolation?
The number of people over 65 is increasing and many are often socially isolated and lonely. The coronavirus outbreak in 2020 brought even more challenges due to various health considerations and the need to practice physical distancing.
Loneliness and social isolation are different, but they are related. Loneliness is the discouraging feeling of being alone or separated. Social isolation is the lack of social contacts and having few people with whom you can interact regularly. You can live alone and not feel lonely or socially isolated, or, conversely, you can feel lonely while you are with other people.
Older adults are at increased risk for social isolation and loneliness due to changes in health and social connections that can occur with aging, as well as hearing, vision and memory loss, a disability, mobility problems or loss. of family and friends.
How can feeling alone or isolated affect the health of older people?
People who are socially isolated or lonely are more likely to be admitted to the emergency room or nursing home. Social isolation and loneliness are also associated with an increased risk of:
high blood pressure,
heart disease,
obesity,
weakened immune function,
anxiety,
depression
cognitive impairment,
dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease,
death.
People who feel lonely or socially isolated may exercise too little , drink too much alcohol , smoke , and often not sleep well , which can further increase the risk of serious health problems.
People who feel lonely experience emotional pain. Losing the sense of interconnectedness and community can change the way a person views the world. People who suffer from chronic loneliness may feel threatened and mistrust others.
Emotional pain can activate the same stress responses in the body as physical pain. When this goes on for a long time, it can lead to chronic inflammation (overactive or prolonged release of substances that can damage tissues) and reduced immunity (ability to fight disease). This increases the risk of chronic diseases and can leave a person more vulnerable to some infectious diseases.
Social isolation and loneliness can also be detrimental to brain health, having been linked to poorer cognitive function and an increased risk of dementia, especially Alzheimer’s disease . Additionally, little social activity and being alone most of the time can contribute to a decreased ability to perform everyday tasks such as driving, paying bills, taking medications, and cooking.
How can you recognize your risk of falling into loneliness and social isolation?
People who find themselves unexpectedly distanced from others due to the illness of a loved one, separation from friends or family, loss of mobility, worsening vision or hearing problems, a disability, or lack of transportation, They are at particular risk of feeling lonely and socially isolated.
Does he live alone.
He can’t leave his house.
You had a major loss or life change, such as the death of a spouse or partner, or you retired.
You have financial problems.
Take care of someone.
You have psychological or cognitive problems, or depression .
Has limited social support.
He has hearing problems.
Lives in a rural neighborhood, unsafe or difficult to access.
You have language barriers where you live.
You face discrimination based on age, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender identity where you live.
You do not participate meaningfully in activities or feel that you have no purpose.
People with hearing loss may have difficulty conversing with friends and family, which can lead to less interaction with people, more social isolation, and higher rates of loneliness.
How can you stay connected with your friends and family?
There are things you can do to protect yourself or a loved one from the negative effects of loneliness and social isolation. First, it’s important to take care of yourself. Try to exercise, eat healthy, get enough sleep (7 to 9 hours), and do activities you enjoy to help manage stress and stay as healthy as possible, both mentally and physically.
It is also important to stay active and in contact with others. People who engage in productive, meaningful activities that they enjoy with others have a sense of purpose and tend to live longer. For example, helping other people through volunteering helps you feel less alone and allows you to have a sense of mission and purpose in life, which is linked to better health. There are several studies that show that activities like these can help improve your mood, well-being, and cognitive function.
The following are additional ideas to help you stay connected:
Find an activity you enjoy, pick up an old hobby, or take a class to learn something new. You can have fun and meet other people with similar interests.
Schedule time every day to stay in touch with your family, friends and neighbors, whether in person, by email, on social media, with phone calls or text messages. Talk to people you trust and share your feelings. Suggest an activity to help sustain and strengthen existing relationships. Another good way to maintain friendships is by sending them letters or cards.
Use communication technologies like video chat, smart speakers, or even companion robots to help you stay busy and connected.
If you’re not very tech-savvy, sign up for an online or in-person class at your public library or community center to learn how to use email or social media.
Consider adopting a pet if you can care for it. Animals can be a source of comfort and can also reduce stress and blood pressure.
Stay physically active. Don’t forget to do group exercise, such as joining a walking club or working out with a friend. Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes (2 1/2 hours) per week of physical activity that makes them breathe hard.
Get to know your neighbors.
Find a religious organization where you can deepen your spirituality and participate with others in activities and events.
Check out resources and programs at social service agencies, community or senior centers, and public libraries.
Join a cause and get involved in your community.