Why Companionship Matters: Staying Connected With Others

Now more than ever, social isolation is a major concern, especially for older Americans who may live alone. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the concerns and complications related to loneliness and lack of companionship. What are the negative effects of isolation and what can be done about it?

Who is at Risk For Loneliness?

According to one study, ⅓ of adults 45 and older report loneliness, and ¼ of adults age 65 and older are socially isolated.1 There are many reasons this can happen. As people get older, social connections naturally change. This can be family changes such as people moving away for work or to start their own families. Friends and even spouses sometimes pass away as they age.

And changes to someone’s physical health can create barriers to visiting family and friends that are close by. Struggling with mobility and fear of falling, or with vision changes that make driving unsafe, can limit the ability to leave the house. Problems with incontinence, hearing loss, and memory can feel embarrassing and lead to avoiding social situations. Just feeling unwell can stop someone from interacting with others. Immigrants, who may face language barriers and limited long-term social connections, and LGBTQ populations facing discrimination and stigma, are also at greater risk for loneliness. 2

The Impacts of Isolation and Loneliness

The effects of this loss of connection to other people are significant. Humans are naturally social creatures and need meaningful interaction. This is reflected in several facts linked with the impacts of isolation and loneliness:

In one study, adults 60 and older who reported loneliness had a 45% increased risk of death, and a 59% increased risk of mental and physical decline 3
Social isolation can result in a 50% higher risk of dementia4
Loneliness and social isolation is associated with a higher risk of heart disease and stroke 5
One study estimated that 1 in 5 cases of depression in older people could be prevented by reducing loneliness6
Loneliness may weaken the immune system and make people more prone to illness and infection7

It’s worth noting this can even happen when someone does not live alone, depending on the dynamic of the relationship with the person they live with. For example, there can be conflict in the relationship, or a family member may still work many hours and be unavailable much of the time. In one study, 43% of older adults surveyed said they felt lonely, but only 18% of those same adults reported living alone.8 So, a person does not have to be completely isolated to experience the negative effects of a lack of meaningful connection to others.

How to Combat Loneliness and Social Isolation

Research shows that people who are part of meaningful social activities that give them a sense of purpose have improved mood, well being, may live longer and even have improved cognitive function.9

There are several things you can do to combat social isolation and loneliness:

Invest in Hobbies

Staying involved in hobbies is a great activity that can not only build connections with others but also keep you active. Many of these can be done by joining a group activity, like a book club, being part of a community garden, playing games like chess or card games, and more. These are all great outlets to keep you occupied and social.

Adopt a Pet

Aside from the simple fact that having a pet means you have a guaranteed live-in companion, and physical contact with another living being, it is also often a chance to bridge the gap with other people, too. Having a pet means chances to do things like getting out for walks, going to the pet store, and common ground for conversation with other pet owners. Having the regular routines that go along with caring for a pet is good for motivation and staying busy, too.

Join a Church

If religion is important to you, belonging to a church can be a great source of support and social engagement. Along with opportunities to participate in activities outside your home, it’s a way to meet other like-minded people. And many seniors find they receive support from their church at times they need it most, as other members may offer hands-on help with activities that they have difficulty doing on their own. A church can also be a great place to be a part of activities like a choir, or volunteer opportunities.

Volunteer for a Cause

Speaking of volunteering, this is another excellent activity for social interaction, especially if you are retired and have more free time. Some seniors enjoy volunteering to teach a class or mentor a young student in a subject they have expertise in. Others get involved in charities related to causes that are important to them. The possibilities in this area are limitless!

Learn Something New

Maybe there’s a skill that you always wanted to master when life was more hectic. Group classes can be a great way to finally take up that skill, feel a sense of accomplishment, and meet some people doing it. Some people enjoy learning a new craft or taking up a fun activity like dance lessons. It can be a great way to have quality time with a good friend or a family member who might want to join in, too.

Reach Out to Friends and Family

Sometimes, a barrier to connecting with friends and family is just a lack of communication and a fear of causing inconvenience. Your loved ones can’t know what kind of struggles you might be facing unless you reach out. Once you have shared this, it is easier to make plans. For example, if getting out of the house is hard, a game night in with takeout dinner delivery might be the best option.

Also, if health issues are interfering with your ability to socialize, asking a trusted friend or family member to come with you to discuss these problems with your doctor can help. Not only will they be more familiar with the challenges you are facing, but they can be an extra set of ears and can advocate for you on ways to improve your health.

Consider Home Care

If your mobility is limited, and your family is not always able to help you get around, home care can be a great option to not only keep you more engaged with everyday tasks and activities, but also for companionship. Many people find that they build a close connection with a regular caregiver or caregivers who become like family!

You’re Important and Deserve Connection

Sometimes, loneliness and isolation can become overwhelming. The Institute on Aging (IOA) offers a 24/7 toll-free crisis Friendship Line, staffed by trained volunteers, to people 60 years and older. This is the only nationwide program in the US that is specially designed for depressed, isolated, frail, and/or suicidal older adults. The number is 800-971-0016.

By being proactive about building connections in the ways listed above, you can avoid loneliness and social isolation and positively impact your health and longevity. Even in situations where mobility and other problems may limit your ability to leave home, there are ways to have meaningful connections and companionship.

If you would like to learn more about home care as an option to avoid isolation and improve your ability to do everyday activities, our caregivers are only a phone call away. You can learn more about Caresify’s services here, or call 888-799-5007.

Providing personalized in-home care to seniors