Older adults are at higher risk for social isolation and loneliness due to the changes that can come with aging. Loneliness and poor health, including a decline in hearing, vision, memory, mobility or general wellness, are closely intertwined and can create a vicious circle of problems. When chronic illness causes seniors to stop engaging in the world around them, this decline can lead to longer hospital stays, more frequent hospital readmissions and earlier mortality.

Not only can loneliness affect seniors who live alone in their private home, but the feeling of isolation can also be present in a residential care facility like memory care or nursing homes.

Signs of Loneliness to Look for in Seniors

Leading dementia expert Teepa Snow says that it can be easier to help a senior who is willing to tell you that they’re lonely, but a person’s emotional distress may be evident in their words, tone of voice or nonverbal expressions. Snow says that a person’s personality style (i.e., introvert or extrovert), preferences, and cognitive changes or abilities influence their ability to communicate how they’re feeling.

For those who can’t verbalize how they’re feeling, here are a few signs to look for:

  • Sitting apart from others
  • Disinterested in activities
  • A mood that is melancholy, tearful or angry

It’s important to be attuned to the senior’s demeanor in order to recognize when a behavior is out of character for an individual and more than just a temporary feeling. Having consistent caregivers and visitors can help recognize usual behavior, allowing for quicker interventions.

Steps to Take if You Recognize Loneliness in a Senior

Reducing social isolation and loneliness among older adults was the focus of a study conducted by the National Council on Aging. They recommend improving seniors’ social connectedness by:

  • Taking the time to listen. It only takes one person to make a senior feel valued, connected and supported. “Every interaction in a care setting should be seen as an opportunity for engagement. Taking vital signs, helping a resident in the bathroom, serving a meal, passing someone in the hallway…don’t miss those chances to help residents feel appreciated, respected, and valued,” Snow says. “Even a 30-second interaction is long enough to offer a smile, a laugh, or a word of appreciation.”
  • Encouraging older adults to be open to new activities and new people. Identifying common interests can form bonds, create purpose and develop positive relationships. It’s important for seniors to introduce themselves to their neighbors and be willing to share their feelings and experiences. Consider making group exercise a priority, as those types of activities support both physical and mental health.
  • Helping the senior schedule time each day to stay in touch with family, friends, and neighbors in person, by email, social media, video chat, voice call, or text.
  • Providing opportunities for engagement that appeal to the senior’s spiritual side. These may include faith-based activities, pet therapy or events associated with special causes.

Seek Help and Support for Senior Loneliness

Kadan Homecare caregivers can provide companion care services to elderly clients wherever they consider ‘home.’. Whether your goal is to increase daily activity, gain emotional support or maintain overall wellbeing, Kadan is here to support your family through every stage of the aging process. For more information or to talk with our team call 770-396-8997 or email info@kadan.org.