Loneliness – The Silent Killer

In the bustling corners of our modern lives, where conversations often happen across screens and heartfelt talks are condensed into emojis, a pervasive epidemic creeps silently among us—loneliness. This is especially true for the elderly, who face a higher risk of being ensnared in this quiet despair. We must recognize that loneliness doesn’t just tug at the heartstrings; it poses genuine threats to health and wellbeing.

At Legacy Place, we deeply care about the well-being of all our brothers and sisters, especially elderly ones. We wanted to share this article with those who are elderly or care for elderly family members. We have put together some practical advice and also brought out the steps taken at Legacy Place to prevent loneliness among the elderly.

Loneliness is on the Rise

Before we go into what can be done to alleviate loneliness, let’s look at how real the problem is and how deep its effects are. Loneliness can cut deeper than the sharp sting of isolation; it also carves its mark on physical, emotional, and mental health.

“More than one-third of adults aged 45 and older feel lonely, and nearly one-fourth of adults aged 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated.”

–          2020 report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM)

“The physical health consequences of poor or insufficient connection include a 29% increased risk of heart disease, a 32% increased risk of stroke, and a 50% increased risk of developing dementia for older adults. Additionally, lacking social connection increases risk of premature death by more than 60%.”

–          The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community 2023

Recently a blog by Amen Clinics entitled “Is Loneliness Impacting Your Brain Function?”  brought out research that indicates abnormal brain structure and activity associated with loneliness, including areas related to Alzheimer’s disease. It also showed that loneliness weakens the immune system, increasing susceptibility to diseases, and is comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day!

What Can We Do as Family and Friends to Alleviate the Sting of Loneliness?

There are many wonderful articles on jw.org that offer excellent advice on how to combat loneliness. Here are some suggestions drawing from this and applying it to elderly ones:

#1.  Stay Connected

Make a conscious effort to regularly reach out to older loved ones. Whether it’s a phone call, a surprise visit, or a handwritten letter, these gestures remind them they’re valued and not alone.

#2. Foster Inclusivity

Include the elderly in family activities and decisions to help them feel like integral members of the household. This inclusion strengthens intergenerational bonds and fosters mutual respect and love.

#3. Encourage Community Engagement

Support older adults in finding communities or groups that share their interests. This can range from book clubs to gardening groups, offering both companionship and new friendships.

We recently hosted a Virtual Wine Tasting event with this in mind. You can see more about it here: https://www.legacyplace.org/general/virtual-wine-tasting-may-update/

#4. Be Attentive Listeners

Often, what the lonely need most is someone to listen. Make the time to hear their stories, experiences, and feelings. This validates their emotions and helps combat feelings of insignificance.

#5. Facilitate Independence

Encourage and enable independence for as long as possible. When older adults feel competent and self-reliant, it reinforces their self-worth and reduces feelings of loneliness.

#6. Encourage Social Activities

Encourage participation in social activities and groups that align with their interests, such as clubs, classes, or volunteer opportunities.

#7. Include Them in Family Gatherings

Include them in family gatherings and events to ensure they feel included and valued.

 

#8. Encourage Hobbies and Interests

Encourage them to pursue hobbies and interests that bring them joy and fulfillment, which can help combat feelings of loneliness.

 

How We Help Elderly Ones Combat Loneliness

In Legacy Place, we work hard to ensure that elderly ones do not feel lonely. Here are some ways in which we do this:

• Community and Social Activities:

In Legacy Place, we offer a variety of community and social activities tailored to residents’ interests and abilities. These activities provide opportunities for social interaction, fostering friendships and a sense of belonging.

You can read more about this in our blog: Importance Of Planning Activities for Older Ones

• Access to Supportive Staff:

Caregivers and other staff members at Legacy Place are trained to provide compassionate care and support to residents. Their presence can offer companionship and emotional support, reducing feelings of loneliness. Loving shepherds volunteer to do the daily text and help residents from time to time which is a blessing as well.

• Structured Routine:

Though flexibility and individual preferences are honored, we typically follow a structured daily routine in the home. This can help combat feelings of isolation and provide a sense of purpose and stability.

• Access to Healthcare Services:

At Legacy Place, we have arrangements to ensure ready access to healthcare services and professionals, ensuring that residents can access medical care and support when needed. This can alleviate anxiety and provide reassurance to residents and their families.

• Opportunities for Meaningful Connections:

Living in Legacy Place with others who share the same faith and who have spent their lives serving Jehovah is truly special. We form strong bonds of friendship and are encouraged by each other every day.

Rally Around

Loneliness is a significant and growing concern, particularly among older adults. However, we can work together to reduce loneliness and improve the overall well-being of older adults. Age may rob them of confidence and ability, but we can help them see that they are not alone.

Our residents love spending time with the friends, so if you would like to visit them or plan an activity for them, please contact us.

Other Ways to Help:

If you would like to contribute towards the care of elderly residents in Legacy Place, you can click on this link: Donate

If you would like to join our team in Legacy Place, click here: Join Our Team

If you would like to stay updated on all that’s happening at Legacy Place, please click this link: Subscribe

Remember, reaching out to a lonely individual, whether it’s a family member, or friend, can make a world of difference. Reach out to someone today!