Aging Without Isolating: Living Your Best Life

The risk of isolation, unfortunately, increases as we age. The social interactions we once took for granted can become challenging due to situations such as becoming a caregiver, the death of a loved one, financial struggles, discrimination, physical issues and transportation.

Isolation and seniors can be a dangerous combination during the holidays. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states nearly one-fourth of adults ages 65 and older are socially isolated and are at a greater risk for depression, anxiety and even suicide. An aging adult who feels lonely despite being active can also suffer depression, anxiety and even suicide.

Symptoms of isolation include:

• Cognitive decline with difficulty concentrating, remembering details or making decisions.
• Fatigue.
•  Changes in sleeping patterns (including insomnia and hypersomnia).
• Irritability or restlessness.
• Loss of interest in enjoyable activities.
• Major changes in appetite.
• Complaining of aches or pains disproportionate to current physical condition.
• Misuse of alcohol, prescription medication or other substances.
• Increase in chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, heart disease or diabetes.
• Talking excessively about death, thoughts of suicide or making suicide attempts.

 

If you believe you or a loved one is suffering from isolation, the first step is to talk to a physician to find a long-term solution. In conjunction with physician support, consider any of the following:

Connect weekly with family and friends via telephone, video, email or in person.

Attend community activities at churches, clubs or weekly social gatherings.

Join a gym or Silver Sneakers program.

Access alternative modes of transportation by contacting family and friends or a senior care service for assistance with doctors and social appointments or shopping.

Volunteer and feel good about helping others.

Reach out for support with places such as AARP, NACOG- Area Agency on Aging, Meals on Wheels, People Who Care and Senior Centers that help connect people with necessary services.

Attend an adult day center that can provide meals, activities, medical monitoring, care or possibly transportation and funding based on qualifying factors.

Move to a senior living community that provides physical and social activities.

 

Per the CDC, seniors are at a higher risk for isolation. The signs and symptoms of isolation listed above can be clues to your or your loved one’s well-being. Researcher and author Tom Rath stated, “There is no greater predictor of human well-being than the amount of social time we spend with one another.” We know today that an active and balanced lifestyle promotes positive aging physically and emotionally.

Do you or your loved one lead an active and balanced lifestyle? Do you or your loved one suffer from isolation or perceived isolation? If so, reach out for help immediately, and remember, you are not alone. Live your best life! QCBN

By Yvonne Napolitano

Yvonne Napolitano, MHA, CTRS, is the executive director of Adult Care Services, The Susan J. Rheem Adult Day Center and The Margaret T. Morris Center.