In a national survey of older adults, AARP found that 25 percent of people age 70 or older reported that they are lonely.
“Loneliness can actually lead to poor health,” said Brian Unwin, M.D., of the Carilion Clinic Center for Healthy Aging. “Lonely seniors can very easily become socially isolated, which can impact memory and even lead to stroke, heart disease, anxiety, depression and premature death.”
According to Connect2Affect—an online initiative by AARP—51 percent of people 75 and older live alone, potentially putting them at risk of becoming socially isolated.
Particularly among those who live alone, people who are lonely or isolated may become less involved in activities, leave their house less frequently, interact less with others and lose interest in hobbies.
“When you’re socially involved, you use more of your brain and receive stimulation that actually makes you happier,” said Renee Von Guggenberg, a clinical social worker with the Carilion Clinic Center for Healthy Aging.
These tips from Renee and Dr. Unwin can help you or your loved ones avoid loneliness:
- Reach out – Meet your neighbors, talk to friends and family frequently and invite people to join you for an activity or meal.
- Stay involved in the community – Volunteer or get involved with an organization that means something to you.
- Be active with other people – Join a group, visit a library or go to a community center for a class.
- Have a plan – Think ahead about your social activities and make it a priority to be around other people most days.
It can be difficult to recognize when someone is lonely, especially if they don’t live alone. But getting older, illness, loss of independence and death of a spouse can all contribute. Supporting a loved one is a team effort; bring the topic up with family members and your primary care physician.
For more information on loneliness and isolation, visit AARP, National Institute on Aging and The Gerontological Society of America.
