Loneliness and social isolation are common problems among older adults, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. They can have negative effects on physical and mental health, such as increasing the risk of chronic diseases, depression, and cognitive decline. However, there are ways to prevent or reduce loneliness and social isolation, and to build resilience against them.
A recent study from Harvard Medical School and Hebrew SeniorLife, published in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry1, examined the factors that contribute to or protect from loneliness and social isolation in older adults. The study used data from 238 participants who have been interviewed for about 10 years as part of the Successful Aging after Elective Surgery study. The researchers found that some of the risk factors for loneliness and social isolation were older age, vision impairment, difficulty in performing daily activities, depression, and anxiety.
On the other hand, the study also identified some resilience factors that helped mitigate the negative effects of loneliness and social isolation on health outcomes. These factors included high cognitive functioning, large social networks, use of technology, and engagement in physical and social activities. The researchers suggested that these factors could be used as interventions to improve the well-being of older adults who are lonely or socially isolated.
According to the study, older adults who had higher cognitive functioning were less likely to experience the adverse effects of loneliness on their self-rated health, physical health, mental health, and physical functioning. Cognitive functioning refers to the ability to think, learn, remember, and solve problems. To maintain or improve cognitive functioning, older adults can engage in mentally stimulating activities such as reading, playing games, learning new skills, or taking online courses.
Another resilience factor was having a large social network, which means having many people to interact with regularly. Older adults who had a large social network were less likely to suffer from the negative effects of loneliness on their physical health and physical functioning. Social network size also buffered the impact of social isolation on self-rated health and physical health. To expand or maintain their social network, older adults can join clubs, groups, or organizations that share their interests or values. They can also reconnect with old friends or relatives, or make new ones through volunteering or mentoring.
The use of technology was also found to be a protective factor against loneliness and social isolation. Older adults who used technology such as computers, smartphones, tablets, or the internet were less likely to experience the harmful effects of loneliness on their physical health. Technology can help older adults stay connected with their family and friends, access information and services, and participate in online communities or events. To increase their use of technology, older adults can seek help from family members, friends, or professionals who can teach them how to use different devices or applications.
Finally, engagement in physical and social activities was another resilience factor that reduced the impact of loneliness and social isolation on health outcomes. Older adults who engaged in physical activities such as walking,
gardening,
or exercising
were less likely to suffer from
the negative effects
of loneliness on their mental health
and physical functioning.
Physical activity can also improve
mood,
energy,
sleep quality,
and immune system function.
Older adults who engaged in
social activities such as visiting friends or family,
attending religious services,
or going to cultural events
were less likely to experience
the detrimental effects
of loneliness on their mental health
and physical health.
Social activity can also provide
a sense of belonging,
purpose,
and support.
To increase their engagement
in physical and social activities,
older adults can find
activities that they enjoy
and that suit their abilities
and preferences.
They can also invite
others to join them
or look for opportunities
to meet new people
who share their interests.
These are some of the ways
that older adults can combat
loneliness and social isolation,
and build resilience against them.
By following these tips,
older adults can improve
their health and well-being,
and enjoy a more fulfilling
and satisfying life.