Loneliness & Depression in Seniors – How Bad Is It?
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Loneliness and depression among seniors have become big problems in our society.
We are living longer and there are more of us.
As we age, many factors and transitions contribute to feelings of isolation and sadness. Let’s look at the causes, then ways to help with these issues.
Causes of Loneliness and Depression in Seniors
Loss of Loved Ones: This is the obvious, greatest cause of loneliness as we age. We lose friends, our spouse, and family members who were very much a part of our lives. It can leave you feeling very alone and isolated. Unattended, this grief and void can grow to feelings of loneliness and depression.
Health Issues: Illness, disabilities, and just slowing down can limit your ability to engage in daily activities in our older years. Not only can it stop you from socializing, but the resulting dependence on others may lead to a decreased sense of purpose and social isolation, which may increase loneliness and depression.
Retirement and Loss of Identity: The transition from a busy, structured work life to retirement can be challenging for many seniors. We all yearn for that day, but the lack of routine and loss of identity associated with work can leave us feeling unexpectedly lonely and purposeless. We need purpose to function well.
Decreased Social Connections: Seniors may experience a decline in their social networks due to factors such as distance from friends and family, reduced mobility, or the loss of social connections due to moving into assisted living facilities. Heck, just feeling bad interferes with staying social. This lack of social interaction can easily lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.
Financial Constraints: Throughout life, financial difficulties can interfere with happiness. In our senior years however, they can amplify the challenges to engage in social activities or maintain social connections. It takes money to enjoy meals out, go to events with others, or share expenses in sports or other activities. Financial problems can put you in a silo, all alone.
Ageism and Stigma: This is changing, but negative stereotypes and ageism prevalent in society can further isolate seniors, leading to feelings of loneliness and depression. Others perception that older adults are less valuable or capable can impact self-esteem and hinder social engagement. Many would like to park seniors away in a quiet corner and not be bothered with them.
How to Reduce Loneliness and Depression for Seniors
Strengthen Social Connections: It takes effort to stay social. You must make that effort. Maintain close friendships with those you have known through life, join & participate in community programs, social clubs, or volunteer work can help expand your social network. Technology can also play a role in maintaining connections through video calls, social media, and online forums. Many senior centers have counselors to help you find local activities where you’d be a good fit.
Support Groups: Providing access to support groups that address specific issues affecting seniors, such as bereavement or chronic illness, can offer a supportive environment where they can share experiences and find comfort. These are found online, by referral of others, and at civic centers for seniors. Many healthcare providers now provide information on support groups & resources for their members.
Physical Activity: Regular exercise has been shown to improve mental health. Just because we are older and more frail does not mean we should become sedentary. Quite the opposite in fact! We should engage in physical activities suited to our abilities, such as walking, swimming, or chair exercises. Golfing, pickleball, and bike riding are popular senior sports. Group exercise classes can also provide an opportunity for social interaction. I’ve enjoyed group Tai Chi classes at my local senior center.
Mental Stimulation: Engaging in activities that stimulate the mind, such as puzzles, reading, or learning a new skill or language, can help combat feelings of loneliness and depression. Or, sharing your lifetime of accumulated experience & education with others on their way up can keep you mentally engaged.
Educational programs, hobby groups, and social meet-ups all help to stay mentally active and socially connected.
Seeking Professional Help: Be honest with yourself. IF you have allowed, or see yourself slipping into social isolation, put a plan together to change that! Don’t be afraid to seek professional help when feelings of loneliness and depression persist or worsen. Mental health professionals can provide therapy, counseling, or medication if necessary. Google search for local support groups or interests that will keep you social.
Conclusion
Loneliness and depression among seniors are common problems that need to be addressed. They have various causes, many which can be remedied.
Understanding the underlying factors contributing to these conditions allows us to implement effective strategies to mitigate them and lead better lives.
By strengthening social connections, supporting mental and physical well-being, and addressing ageism and stigma, we can create a supportive environment where we are valued, included, and less prone to loneliness and depression.
Start today to build your social life with the support available you. Ask for help if needed. You’ll be healthier and happier for doing it.
Sources:
Campaign to End Loneliness. (2021). Causes of loneliness. Retrieved from https://www.campaigntoendloneliness.org/
National Institute on Aging. (2021). Loneliness and social isolation in older adults: How to stay connected. Retrieved from https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/loneliness-and-social-isolation-older-adults-how-stay-connected
Holley, A., et al. (2020). Loneliness mitigation and prevention for older adults: a review of interventions and effectiveness. Journal of Primary Prevention, 41(6), 603-634.
AARP Foundation. (2021). Loneliness and social isolation in older adults. Retrieved from https://www.aarp.org/aarp-foundation/our-work/isolation/info-2020/loneliness-social-isolation-seniors.html