Senior isolation is a growing and very dangerous epidemic across the nation. Nearly 33% of all older adults live alone, and for a number of reasons (limited mobility, chronic health concerns, and loss of friends and relatives, just to name a few) elderly socialization ends up being more and more difficult to maintain.
The truth is, isolation in the elderly has been shown to be as hazardous to their health as smoking 15 cigarettes every day, with an elevated risk for heart-related illnesses, stroke, and even premature death, as indicated by a study conducted by the National Institute for Health Care Management.
It’s also important to understand the key differences between isolation and loneliness. According to the late John T. Cacioppo, Ph.D., former director for the Center for Cognitive and Social Neuroscience at the University of Chicago, social isolation is “the objective physical separation from other people (living alone),” while loneliness is “the subjective distressed feeling of being alone or separated.” This means an older adult can feel lonely even when in the midst of friends and family, whereas another may spend a lot of the time alone, but not feel lonely.
Both loneliness and social isolation are risk factors for health problems, and intervention to increase socialization is essential. The good news is the fact that senior loved ones whose lives are more social reap an array of health benefits, most notably in the areas of:
In addition to that, social seniors have even demonstrated experiencing a lengthier lifespan than others who are more isolated.
At Morning Glory Home Care, we are assisting older adults throughout Edwardsville to conquer loneliness and isolation by providing highly-qualified, experienced, friendly, and compassionate caregivers who offer much-needed companionship through:
Help an older adult you love discover a more socially-enriched lifestyle! Contact us at 618-667-8400 for a no-cost in-home consultation and to find out more about our top-rated home health care in O’Fallon, IL and nearby areas.
“I’m going to clean the bathrooms more often.” “I’m going to force myself to run…
Coughing. Shortness of breath. Wheezing. If you’re taking care of a loved one with COPD,…
Aging is accompanied by a set of common changes. Shifts in eating and sleeping habits,…
Ready or not, the holiday season has arrived! As you prepare for family get-togethers, there…
November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and with more than 130 million Americans diagnosed with the…
If you have ever felt underappreciated and unrecognized in your role as family caregiver, this…
This website uses cookies.