By Faby Myra

What is Loneliness in the Elderly?


Causes of Loneliness in Seniors!

Some key factors in their lives change.

There are a range of factors that could trigger loneliness in seniors, including:

  • Change of environment
  • Working from home
  • Moving to a new city
  • Ending a relationship
  • Death of a spouse
  • Living alone
  • Lack of meaningful social connections
  • Having difficulty initiating and maintaining relationships
  • Being widowed or divorced
  • Experiencing holidays and birthdays
  • Retirement
  • Lack of transportation
  • Limited financial resources to participate in social and recreational activities
  • Isolating oneself out of feelings of guilt or worry about being a burden to loved ones


Signs of Senior Loneliness

How does someone identify what loneliness looks like in seniors?

Elderly loneliness can be recognized if there are concerns in the following areas:

  • Sleep difficulties
  • Increased shopping
  • Loss of appetite
  • Lower energy levels
  • Less regimented personal hygiene
  • Increased alone time or lack of interest in social gatherings
  • Statements about feeling lonely, isolated, or that they miss loved ones
  • Increase in hot showers or warm baths as a way to compensate for reduced physical contact
  • Connecting with strangers via the internet or phone as a way to cope with their loneliness— this may lead to scam.

Did you know loneliness in the elderly can be detrimental?

Loneliness can cause physical and mental disorders experienced in seniors.

Research studies have indicated that loneliness can have serious health-related consequences

Such as: depressive symptoms, cognitive decline, intense feelings of emptiness, abandonment, frequent visit of doctors, and poorer quality of life. Loneliness also increases the risk of committing suicide

Here is the Good News “Help is available.”

If you’re worried about an aging relative and want to support them in breaking free from isolation and loneliness. Get Help from a Professional!! Essential Home Care Plus can help by providing companionship to your loved one.

Call us today to learn more!


Sources