Loneliness has long been a major issue faced by seniors, and this is especially true during the COVID-19 pandemic. In an effort to keep the most vulnerable of our population safe from the effects of the novel coronavirus, many have not been able to see friends or family for months, and if they do, it’s usually a brief encounter with social distancing taking place.
But efforts must be taken to keep our seniors involved, even if it’s by using technology – video apps like Facetime, Skype, and Zoom have taken off in popularity during the pandemic. Otherwise, the effects can be detrimental to their health.
Washington Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has a look at health conditions brought on by loneliness in seniors.
- Premature Death
While not a specific health condition, loneliness (social isolation) has been found to increase a person’s risk of premature death as much as traditional health detriments like smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity.
- Dementia
Social isolation was found to have around a 50% increased risk of a person developing dementia.
- Heart Disease
Social isolation and loneliness are associated with increased risks of heart disease (29%) and stroke (32%).
- Mental Health
Loneliness is a major contributing factor to mental health issues like depression and anxiety, as well as a leading cause of suicide in the elderly population.
Intervening Is Key
If you suspect a senior in your life is going through a rough period, there are several places to turn to. You should first talk to their physician. Secondly, there are agencies that can help, including the National Council on Aging, the AARP, and Eldercare Locator, which is a free nationwide service that helps seniors find local resources.
To learn more about Washington Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://washington-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org/.
