Practical Tips for Seniors on Staying Socially Connected if Isolated or Feeling Lonely

Anyone can feel lonely or isolated at any age, but seniors are often at greater risk of being physically isolated or feeling lonely, according to professional senior care experts in Irvine, California. However, not all individuals living alone will feel extreme feelings of loneliness, and not every person surrounded by a crowd of people in their life feels connected or engaged on a deeper social level.

Understanding Social Isolation Versus Loneliness

People can become socially isolated due to living in a rural area with no close neighbors or family members living nearby or due to a physical disability or mobility issue. Alternately, a person can be isolated due to the pandemic social distancing rules or due to another contagious illness. In all of these isolation circumstances, it is still possible to remain socially connected if the person knows how.

How Can Someone Feel Lonely in a Crowd or with Close Contacts Near

Loneliness that becomes chronic has more to do with self-image and identity or lack thereof, state knowledgeable mental health providers. Sometimes, the individual is so good at hiding their true feelings that nobody in their circle of friends or family members is even aware that this could be happening.

When these feelings continue over a longer stretch of time an intervention may be necessary

Every human being will feel isolated or lonely on occasion. It is when these feelings continue over a longer stretch of time that an intervention may be necessary. Many lonely people will state that they feel even more alone and unnoticed even when there are plenty of people around on a regular basis.

Why Are Seniors at a Greater Risk of Being Lonely or Isolated

More seniors decide to age in place gracefully in the comforts of their long-familiar home settings. Eventually, older neighbors and others in the community that were once close to a senior may begin to move away, develop serious health issues, or die. Many seniors who have recently lost their spouse or another long-term relationship are especially vulnerable to developing chronic loneliness and will often self-isolate as a direct result.

Tips for Seniors & Their Family to Stay Socially Connected

Adult children or grandchildren can set their elderly parent or grandparent up with a user-friendly Internet device so they can interact on a regular basis. Writing cards/letters, calling more frequently, and making plans to visit more often can go a long way towards keeping loneliness away.