Social isolation of seniors or loneliness is caused by poor quality social relationships or the lack of these relationships. Social isolation ultimately causes depression in the elderly. Most elderly people suffer from social isolation due to the death of their spouse, relatives and relatives, children leaving the family, and the reduction of their social and communication networks.
Also, some people in old age are not present in society for various reasons such as chronic diseases, retirement and limited mobility compared to the past, so the person who has taken on the responsibility of caring for the elderly must keep them socially active in order to prevent the irreparable consequences of loneliness. The caregiver or children of the elderly should try to find the exact cause of social isolation in the elderly in order to find the right solution to the problem. In this article from humanhealthmag, we intend to address the issue of isolation in the elderly.
Definition of Isolation in the Elderly
Social isolation of seniors means weakness and lack of social bonds and refers to the process of interpersonal relationships collapsing, communication being blocked, withdrawal from social contacts and shrinking social circles around the elderly. Loneliness in older people has consequences such as depression, reduced life expectancy, increased anxiety and death. As we age, our physical and mental abilities decrease. One of the symptoms of social isolation is the feeling of sleepiness in the elderly.
If the elderly have not prepared themselves before this, they will suffer severe mental and emotional consequences. It is better to solve our mental problems before we get old. In old age, you do not accept many things and you will not be willing to be present in every society. But it is better to find a nurse or caregiver with whom we communicate well and spend the rest of the way with such specialists. Social isolation in the elderly means the elderly are away from society even if they do not have financial problems.
The impact of Social Isolation of Seniors on Health
Social isolation of seniors can lead to increased feelings of depression and anxiety in seniors. Seniors who feel lonely may be more anxious. This anxiety can be due to concerns about the future, health, and personal safety. Feelings of isolation and lack of connection with others can also lead to a decrease in morale and increased feelings of hopelessness. The most important effects of loneliness on seniors’ health are:
- High blood pressure: Loneliness can lead to increased blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Weak immune system: Social isolation can weaken the body’s immune system and expose seniors to various diseases.
- Obesity and metabolic problems: Loneliness can be associated with an increased risk of obesity and metabolic problems such as type 2 diabetes.
- Dementia and cognitive decline: Research shows that social isolation and loneliness in older adults can be associated with an increased risk of dementia and cognitive problems.
Symptoms of Loneliness in Older People
In the elderly, physical and mental strength decreases over time. Most elderly people live alone and even if they are not financially well-off, they still need the attention of those around them, their children and their caregivers. Everyone in society reaches old age at some point in their lives. If we know more about this period of life and prepare ourselves for it, we can enjoy it more and add better experiences to our life’s book. By changing our perspective on this period and by creating the right culture in society, we can make old age more attractive for ourselves and enjoy it. Common symptoms of social isolation of seniors include:
- Feeling helpless
- Fear of being alone in any situation
- Overdependence on others
- Fear of being in crowded places
- Fear of losing control in a public place
- Fear of being in places that may be difficult to leave, such as elevators or trains
How to Reduce Social Isolation of Seniors
How to reduce social isolation in elderly? The feeling of social isolation of seniors may be temporary and will disappear after a while, so there is certainly no need to worry. Loneliness is actually an evolutionary adaptation that forces people to return to society. Below are the best solutions to deal with feelings of loneliness and isolation.
- Spend more time outdoors: When you are looking for a solution to overcome social isolation of seniors, getting out of the house and spending time in a stress-free environment can be a great idea. You can also choose a space where interaction with others is possible, such as parks. If you are currently unable to meet a dear friend and are looking to relieve feelings of loneliness, going to nature is a great option. As we also said in empower older adults, fresh air increases oxygen consumption, which in turn can help improve mood and energy.
- Reduce TV Time: A 2015 study found a link between watching TV and feeling lonely. So, binge-watching an episode of your favorite TV show or movie during the day can be fun, but binge-watching multiple episodes of the same show in a day or night can lead to social isolation for seniors.
- Keeping a pet can be a great way to relieve social isolation for seniors: For some people, animals can be a source of comfort and help them feel less lonely. Pets are not only adorable and cuddly, but they can also help reduce stress and improve their owners’ moods. Plus, having a pet can be a great excuse to go to the park, and owners can connect with each other. Pets can start new conversations and can lead to new friendships.
- Exercise and health: During this period, the elderly think to themselves that they are old and do not have the ability to do many things. The people around the elderly and the elderly nurse should motivate the person not to give up doing some things such as exercising so that their body does not lose its health in old age. The elderly can feel good by doing walking or light exercise during the day and sleep more easily at night. To treat social isolation of seniors, invite them to do different things so that the elderly do not lose their sense of usefulness.
Concluding Remarks
In general, social isolation of seniors is a natural feeling that occurs with age and changes in people’s physical and lifestyle. What is important is to recognize this feeling and take steps to reduce the feeling of loneliness. In this article, the causes and effects of loneliness in the elderly, as well as strategies to deal with it, were explained. These strategies have helped the elderly to feel less lonely and improve their quality of life.
It should be noted that to deal with the negative effects of loneliness in the elderly, it is very important to increase social interactions and support from family and friends. Organizing social and cultural programs such as celebrations, educational workshops and recreational activities can help the elderly to be active and avoid loneliness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
what is the Definition of Social Isolation in the Elderly?
Isolation in the elderly refers to cases where the life of the elderly is lacking in quality relationships. The end of this problem usually ends in depression in the elderly. These problems in the elderly usually begin when the elderly lose their spouse, their social contact decreases, or their children are separated from them.
What Are the Negative Effects of Loneliness on the Elderly?
Loneliness can have many negative effects on the physical and mental health of the elderly. If these effects are not controlled, they will cause serious diseases in the elderly and even their premature death. These complications show that loneliness has serious effects on the health and quality of life of the elderly.