Loneliness: A Major Problem

While solitude is sometimes appreciated by some, it can be destructive and a source of frustration for others. According to statistics, isolation affects nearly a quarter of seniors over 75 years old.

One doesn’t need to go far to see loneliness. It’s everywhere: on a park bench, at the window of a home watching cars, or on a chair on an apartment balcony.

Loneliness is defined as a feeling of lack, deprivation, or sadness. With the aging population, more and more elderly people suffer from loneliness. This feeling of isolation is even more intense during festive periods (Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Easter, etc.) although it can also be present daily. Loneliness should not be taken lightly because it has serious consequences:

• Loss of autonomy
• Eating disorders
• Increased stress and anxiety
• Depression
• Sleep disorders
• Suicidal thoughts
• Increased risk of chronic diseases (particularly cardiac or vascular)

Our society has a duty to break the isolation that many elderly people suffer from in order to overcome loneliness and its consequences.

What Are the Causes of Loneliness?

Several reasons or factors can contribute to loneliness and isolation, including:

• Death of spouse
• Distance from children
• Reduction or disappearance of circle of friends
• Difficulty communicating (speech or hearing disorder)
• An illness (for example cancer or Alzheimer’s disease)
• Change of living environment
• Fear of becoming a burden
• Fear of going out and falling

How to Overcome Isolation and Loneliness?

The loneliness and isolation of elderly people is a major social issue. Governments, the medical community, stakeholders, social groups, etc. must be examined more closely. Additionally, families must be more present with their elders and pay attention to signs indicating a deterioration in these people’s well-being.

If an elderly person in your family or circle seems to be isolated or suffering from loneliness, here are some tips to care for them:

• Visit them as often as possible. If you have a busy schedule, make shorter visits more often.

• Call them regularly on the phone and encourage them to call you. Make sure they can reach you easily. Show interest in topics that concern them: their daily life, health, hobbies, and difficulties.

• Also talk about topics that interest you, even if you only think the person isn’t interested. Who knows, you might benefit from valuable advice; this will also give you the opportunity to make this person feel important.

• Encourage them to stay active. Go for walks with them or take them to the mall for shopping. During your visit, bring your children or those of family members. Seniors often enjoy the company of young children, who are a great source of joy and entertainment for them. You can also bring a small animal, if you have one, and of course if the elderly person likes it. Animal therapy is a proven way to combat loneliness and isolation.

• Suggest they get a pet. Offer assistance for vet appointments or visits.

• Offer your help with personal care or household chores. Styling someone’s hair or helping to tidy or clean can give you the chance to chat and build a better relationship.

• Invite them to eat at your place, ideally with family. Lively meals are also great opportunities to share and taste life’s pleasures.

• Encourage them to join or register for different activities: bridge, bingo, crafts, outings, etc. Go drive them if needed; you and other family members can even take turns.

• You can also call on companion ladies whose role will be to stimulate them, help them with daily tasks, and build a social connection that will fill this feeling of emptiness.

Fighting loneliness means preventing exclusion, poverty, loss of autonomy, and psychological and emotional distress. Everyone must do their part to contribute to the well-being of our elders and propose measures to counter loneliness and isolation. Our elders are both a national and family treasure; we must take good care of them!

An Alternative to Loneliness: Alter Ego, Professionals at Your Service

If loneliness weighs on you, a possible solution is to hire a home care nurse from Alter Ego à Domicile. Specialized in assistance and care for elderly people, this agency offers customized services, provided by experienced and competent staff, including companion ladies. Available 24/7, Alter Ego à Domicile offers you the possibility to stay at home with confidence. To learn more, visit our website.