Tips for Reducing Senior Loneliness

In recent years, and especially since the onset of the COVID pandemic, there has been a sort of shadow epidemic: loneliness. And while there has been an increase in loneliness across age groups, it has hit older Americans especially hard. The World Health Organization estimates that up to one in three older people in some regions, including the United States, suffer from social isolation.

That’s bad news on a number of fronts. Loneliness is more than just an emotional problem; it can cause serious physical health issues as well. Chronic loneliness in seniors is linked to cardiovascular issues like high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. It can weaken the immune system, and may increase the risk of dementia by up to 60%. Recent research compares the effect of loneliness in shortening lifespan to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. 

Fortunately, there are actions you can take toward reducing senior loneliness, whether you are experiencing it yourself, or want to help a loved one. 

How Older People Can Combat Loneliness

When you feel isolated, it can be even harder to take the steps necessary for reducing senior loneliness. You may begin to imagine that friends and family members are too busy to spend time with you, or even that they don’t want to. That feeling can cause some people to withdraw further, so as to avoid feeling hurt or like a burden. As a result, loneliness and isolation get worse. 

Here are some tips for reducing senior loneliness. They may not all work for your needs and abilities, but even putting one or two into action can help you feel more social and connected.

Tell Loved Ones How You Feel

This one may seem too obvious to mention, but it’s surprisingly hard for most people to admit they are lonely. If you have family or friends nearby with whom you are on good terms, it’s worth reaching out to let them know you’d like to spend more time together. If it feels too difficult or embarrassing to say, “I’m lonely,” you can say something along the lines of, “I know life is busy, but I miss getting to spend time with you. Can we set up a time to get together?” 

Sometimes our loved ones are busy, but a gentle nudge can remind them they’re not too busy to make time for someone they love.

Lean Into Existing or Recent Connections

Think about the ways you are already connected socially. Do you attend a house of worship? See if they sponsor any groups or social events for seniors (or if they might like your help starting one). Have an old friend you haven’t seen in a while? Give a call or send a text to say hi, and see what they’ve been up to. They may be eager for connection, too; at a minimum, they will be happy to know someone is thinking of them. 

Take Advantage of Technology

If, like many seniors, your children and grandchildren live far away, you may not be able to get together regularly, but technology can help keep you connected. Using a computer or tablet might make video chatting easier than on a small phone screen. Try to set up a regular time to chat if you can. Another fun way to keep in touch with family members of various ages is to play board games together online on sites like BuddyBoardGames. There are other online multiplayer games for seniors, too. 

Volunteer

If your mobility permits, volunteering outside of your home is a great way to be active, build a sense of purpose, and get social interaction. Type “volunteer opportunities for seniors” into a search engine and see what pops up, or contact a local organization whose mission you support to see if they need help. 

Even if you’re not able to get out of the house, there are remote volunteer opportunities, such as tutoring children, answering calls for a crisis line, or even helping the blind.

Check Out Your Local Senior Center

Most cities or counties have senior centers where people can find a variety of activities, including arts and crafts, exercise, games, cultural events, clubs, guest speakers, health screenings and more. Many centers offer activities such as field trips and communal meals.

Get a Pet

Caring for another creature can be an excellent cure for loneliness. Something snuggly like a dog or cat is ideal, and there are many pets (some of them seniors themselves) waiting patiently in shelters for a loving home. Not only could you save an animal’s life, your pet may return the favor by contributing to healthy aging for you.

Find Support

For many seniors, loneliness is the result of a longtime spouse. Grief can compound loneliness, and a lack of support can complicate the grief process. Finding a local grief support group for widows and widowers can not only help you navigate your grief, but it may help you find friends who understand what you are going through.

Consult an Elder Law Attorney to Help Your Loved One

If you are concerned about an older loved one being lonely or depressed, be aware of signs such as decreased communication, loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy, or mentions of feeling alone or forgotten.

If you notice these signs, you may want to visit more often if possible, or arrange calls or video chats at a regular time so that they have something to look forward to. If they are able, you may want to suggest some of the activities listed above to them.

An elder law attorney may be able to offer additional guidance or recommendations based on your family member’s unique situation. To learn more about reducing senior loneliness, or how to help an older loved one who is struggling, contact Estate Planning & Elder Law Services to schedule a consultation.