13 Abr Keeping company: Helping older adults feel less lonely
“For some seniors, the holiday season can be fairly stressful due to loneliness and isolation,” said Camille Moreno, PSYD, a clinical psychologist at PeaceHealth Cascade Park Behavioral Health Clinic in Vancouver, Washington.
Many people national survey of people 45 and older, about 1 in 3 said they felt lonely and isolated. During the pandemic, those feelings intensified.
The AARP now describes long-term isolation and loneliness as a public health crisis for Americans in midlife and older. That's a big concern because loneliness can lead to long-term health challenges. These may include depression, anxiety, diabetes, stomach issues, difficulty sleeping and high blood pressure.
“Social interaction is essential to our overall well-being,” Moreno said. But it's difficult in the winter for people to get out and spend time with others. That could be due to bad weather, less daylight or the fear of getting sick or spreading illness. Health issues might also keep them from leaving home. Or they might not feel comfortable driving anymore.
Whatever the reason, here are some practical tips to help others feel less alone during the winter months. You may find that a little gesture goes a long way.
Learn the signs of loneliness
Everyone feels lonely from time to time. Working from home, living alone or moving to a new city are all reasons some of us feel lonely.
Chronic loneliness is different. It lasts a long time and can feel like it never lifts. It shows up in many ways. It could be an inability to connect with others deeply. Or a lack of close friends. Low self-esteem may play a role, too.
Visit in person, if possible
Research shows that socializing is important for our mental health. If you can do so safely, visit your loved ones in person, even for a short time. It can lift their mood and help them know that others care about them.
You don't have to plan outings or organize activities. You could simply go through photo albums, play board games or spend time catching up.