Earlier this year, the U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, issued an 85-page report about an epidemic of loneliness that plagues young people, adults, and seniors. In our line of work, we can sadly attest that this is an accurate assessment.
In fact, on the National Public Radio (NPR) program, All Things Considered, hosted by Juana Summers Vincent Acovino, and Christopher Intagliata, they discussed Dr. Murthy’s report which stated that before the COVID-19 pandemic, approximately “50% of U.S. adults reported experiencing measurable levels of loneliness.” That means 1 in 2 people is or has felt some level of loneliness.
Damey and I often meet seniors living alone in the Canton area, and there are clear indicators of loneliness, one of the most important being social isolation. The lack of socialization and connection with others results in loneliness which can lead to a host of physical and mental health issues.
“The physical consequences of poor connection can be devastating, including a 29% increased risk of heart disease; a 32% increased risk of stroke; and a 50% increased risk of developing dementia for older adults,” explains NPR. Furthermore, “Lacking connection can increase the risk for premature death to levels comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day, according to a new advisory from the U.S. Surgeon General.”
Now that the holidays are upon us, feelings of loneliness may be enhanced for any number of reasons. That’s why Damey and I encourage you to reach out to the seniors in your life – family, friends, and neighbors – to see how they are doing and take notice of their specific needs and signs of loneliness, isolation, and depression.
Melanie Donohue, Founder and Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Blue Moon Senior Counseling outlines 6 signs of loneliness among seniors so you know what to look for:
- Unusual Social Withdrawal – “It’s not uncommon for older adults to slowly step back from regular social activities as they age, but when it goes beyond that and they begin to avoid phone calls, texts, and visits from friends and family, it’s time to take notice.”
- Changes in Eating Habits – “You may notice a change in your senior loved one’s eating habits if they are feeling lonely and isolated. They may skip meals, refuse to eat, or simply not have an appetite. Not only can this cause health issues, but it could be indicative of deeper emotional problems such as depression and loneliness.”
- Lack of Interest in Activities – It’s to be expected that seniors slow down and participate in fewer activities as they age. However, “if your senior loved one is turning down invitations, avoiding hobbies they once enjoyed, or staying in bed all day, it could indicate that they are feeling lonely and isolated.”
- Feeling Overwhelmed with Basic Tasks – “Sometimes when seniors are feeling lonely, they may become overwhelmed by even the simplest tasks. Things that they used to do without a problem, like taking out the garbage or paying bills, can suddenly become unmanageable. This is often caused by a lack of support and feeling disconnected from others.”
- Difficulty Concentrating and Communicating – “If your senior loved one seems to be having trouble understanding conversations, remembering details, or having difficulty finding the right words when speaking, it could indicate that they are feeling lonely and isolated.”
- Physical Symptoms Like Fatigue and Headaches – “Loneliness can manifest itself in physical symptoms as well. If your senior loved one is experiencing unexplained fatigue, headaches, weakened immune system, mobility issues, or other physical issues that don’t have an obvious cause, loneliness could be the culprit. They may not realize it, but they could be feeling isolated and disconnected from those around them.”
Relationships are vital for us all, but they can be lifesaving for seniors living alone. Invite the seniors in your life to join in your planned festivities, surprise them with a gift or sweet treat, or better still, spend some extra time with them during and after the holidays to lift their spirits. Time spent with family and friends is usually the best gift of all!
For seniors without family nearby, Home Helpers® is your family when family can’t be there. We employ professional caregivers who offer companionship, love, and support, as well as a variety of in-home care services to help make life easier and the holidays happier!
Damey and I are happy to schedule a FREE consultation at your convenience to assess specific needs and determine ways we can help your special senior someone have the happiest of holidays this year and beyond! 330.892.9329
From all of us at Home Helpers Canton, OH, Happy Holidays!
Home Helpers® Canton, OH, is Veteran-owned and operated. We are honored to have received the Home Care Pulse – Best of Home Care® Provider of Choice Award, the Shooting Star Award (2011), and multiple Platinum awards for the superior level of care we provide. We are Certified Senior Advisors and members of the Home Care Association of America, Alzheimer’s Association, and the International Franchise Association. In addition, we were ranked in the Top 500 Franchises by Entrepreneur Magazine in 2019.
Home Helpers® Canton proudly serves male and female seniors in Stark County, Portage County, and portions of Summit County including the communities of Akron, Alliance, Canton, East Sparta, Hartville, Jackson, Massillon, Navarre, North Canton, Randolph, and surrounding areas.
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