Lonliness: Causes, Effects and Solutions

Mental HealthAugust 2, 2023

The feeling of loneliness is often associated with being alone. But, as many senior citizens can attest, loneliness is much more complex than simply being without someone to talk to. For older people, loneliness can have far-reaching consequences on their mental and physical health.

Some reports indicate that around 30% of older people live alone, and almost half say they feel lonely. This begs the question: What is loneliness, and how does it impact older adults? This article will explore the causes, effects, and potential solutions to loneliness in older people.

Matej / Pexels | It is crucial to take care of the needs and wants of elders to avoid loneliness and distress among them

Understanding Loneliness

The first step to addressing the issue is to understand what loneliness is. Loneliness is a subjective feeling of isolation, sadness, or disconnection that arises when we perceive ourselves as alone or unconnected.

Being alone does not necessarily mean someone is lonely, and vice versa. Loneliness occurs when a person’s social and emotional needs are unmet. In the case of older people, this can happen due to various factors.

Causes of Loneliness in Older People

The factors that contribute to loneliness in older people vary widely; some of the most common causes are:

Social Isolation

As people age, they may lose touch with old friends and find it more challenging to make new ones. They may also have difficulties leaving home, becoming housebound, and eventually disconnected from the outside world.

Andrea Piacquadio / Pexels | Establishing senior clubs and exercise programs can enhance the overall community engagement

Loss Of A Spouse

The bereavement or death of a life partner or spouse is an all too common and traumatic experience. After many years of being together, one may feel lost and alone without their partner, particularly if they lose contact with the support of children, friends or other family members.

Poor Health

Seniors experiencing pain, illness, or mobility issues may have trouble socializing and maintaining connections outside of the house.

Effects

Loneliness is not a trivial issue; it can seriously affect physical and mental health. Some of the most common consequences of loneliness include:

Depression: Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent sadness and hopelessness. Loneliness is a significant cause of depression among senior citizens.
Anxiety: Loneliness can also cause persistent anxiety, leading to feelings of nervousness or panic.
Cognitive Impairment: Chronic loneliness can lead to cognitive decline, including memory loss and attention deficit.
Heart Disease: A study by the University of York found that loneliness increased the risk of heart disease by 29%.