The Silent Epidemic: Loneliness and Its Deadly Impact on Senior Health

Isolation and loneliness can be a mental and physical struggle for people of all ages, but the elderly are particularly at risk. That’s especially true for those who do not have friends or family close by (or who don’t have any close friends or family at all).

Various studies have been conducted around the world to show just how serious of an impact loneliness can have on seniors. For example, a 2022 study in the USA suggested that both severe and moderate social isolation and loneliness were significantly linked to all-cause mortality. This is an alarming result that shows just how deadly lack of socialising and isolation can be on the older generation.

In this article, we’re going to look at ways some effective ways to combat loneliness and social isolation in seniors. These ideas can help the older generation stay connected to the outside world and lead to a happier, healthier lifestyle.

Technological solutions

Technology is getting more and more sophisticated, so there are a wide range of options when it comes to utilising it to aid with loneliness. Technology can still be something of a barrier for the older generation, especially those that aren’t as used to using it. That being said, many different kinds of technology have become more straightforward so that those who might struggle will have an easier time accessing it.

Digital technology needs to be used appropriately and set up in the right way to ensure that those using it get the best possible experience and aren’t at risk of facing the darker sides of the online tech world, such as online scams and social media stalking.

Some popular choices when it comes to digital tools that can help tackle loneliness in seniors include:

• Video calling: Popular options include FaceTime (for Apple devices only), WhatsApp, Zoom and Skype.

• Social media: Social media apps such as Facebook and YouTube are well suited for the older generation and tend to be better than apps like X or TikTok, which can be particularly toxic. That being said, any social media site can be used effectively by anyone as long as they are aware of the risks and do not give out any personal information.

• Specific websites for the older generation: Websites such as Senior Planet offer a wide variety of content to help seniors stay active and engaged. This includes online classes, tutorials, games, quizzes, puzzles, book clubs and more.

Community programs

Community programs can be invaluable when it comes to tackling isolation in seniors. In the UK, these programmes have become a crucial element of social prescribing. Social prescribing allows people to connect to non-medical support to help with various needs, including stress, isolation and loneliness.

Some top choices of community programs for seniors in the UK include:

• Age UK: Age UK offers all sorts of classes and clubs, such as arts and crafts, tea dances, coffee mornings and more.

• The Salvation Army: Offers a range of different kinds of clubs, including gardening clubs, choirs and sports.

• MHA: Offers a variety of community social groups and activities, such as arts and crafts and assisted outings and shopping trips.

Intergenerational connection opportunities

Many of the community programmes mentioned above also offer the opportunity to engage in intergenerational connection. This refers to the idea of the older and the younger generation coming together to share their experiences and build connections with one another. It can be a great way to tackle loneliness.

As well as community programmes, intergenerational connection can also be achieved by:

• School partnerships with community centres or care homes.

• Virtual projects such as digital pen pal programmes.

• Outdoor projects and groups.

• Community meals.

• Mentoring for seniors who need help with technology.

Pet companionship

Another great way to tackle social isolation is for seniors to adopt a pet. Pets can be fantastic companions for people of all ages, but they are particularly effective friends for those who are lonely. Not only do pets offer a form of socialisation, but they also require care and routine, which offers a sense of purpose for those struggling with loneliness and isolation.

There are all sorts of different kinds of pets out there, but some are more suitable for older people than others. Some of the best pet choices for seniors include:

Cats: Cats are very independent, but they still need a routine and care, such as feeding and litter box cleaning. This makes them a great choice for those who might have limited mobility and can’t go for walks very often.

Small or senior dogs: Dogs in their twilight years can be great companions due to them slowly winding down into a less energetic lifestyle. Small dogs are appropriate too, as they don’t need quite as much exercise as larger breeds.

Fish: Very little work is needed for fish, though they will need to have their aquariums maintained and be fed regularly. They can be a calming presence in any household, but can’t be pet or cuddled.

Personal alarms for lonely and isolated seniors

One way to ensure that you have peace of mind if you are concerned for a senior in your life is to invest in a personal alarm. These alarms make sure that the wearer can receive assistance in the event of an emergency. Seniors living alone are high risk when it comes to these kinds of isolated situations, so alarms can be an invaluable tool for them.

Learn more about SureSafe personal alarms for lonely and isolated seniors

Despite all the ways that loneliness and isolation in seniors can be tackled, the fear of an accident occurring when no one else is around to help is always a significant worry for the friends and family of older people living alone. SureSafe can take away that fear, offering an effective safety net in the event of an emergency.

SureSafe devices provide simple-to-use and affordable protection for seniors who are isolated, offering a range of features including 24/7 monitoring and the ability to talk to your contacts or our response centre directly through the alarm.

Above all, we provide high-quality products and reassurance for seniors and their friends and family. For more information, give us a call on 0808 303 4541, get in touch on our live chat, or request a callback on our online form. Make sure to have a read of our Trustpilot reviews as well to see what our customers have to say about our services and our top-rated product.