It is not surprising to hear that social isolation is an issue as we age. Unfortunately, isolation is also often associated with poor health, including poor memory and thought processes, depression and functional decline.
Isolation does not always translate into loneliness, but for many, it does. In fact, there are two ways of looking at social isolation. Understanding these points of view might help you determine the best action to take to help prevent issues associated with isolation.
How we address isolation depends on our own personality and our own choices. And addressing isolation does not mean that we must do this by leaving our homes. Technology has made it possible to be connected even without in-person interactions.
There are some clinical issues that might lead a person to limit their interactions, but these can be addressed. These issues are things such as urinary incontinence, hearing loss and visual acuity decline.
Our Aging Well Resource Coordinator can help with getting these issues addressed if they are impacting your interest in joining a social group.
Transportation is another barrier to being social. Make sure you read through our resources on transportation in another section or reach out to our Aging Well Resource Coordinator for help with transportation needs.
There are multiple resources in communities across the country to help seniors connect. This website and our Aging Well Resource Coordinator can help connect you with the resources available in your community.
Consider laying out a plan for staying connected. Here are some tips to help you connect and help minimize isolation:
Utilize Skype, FaceTime, Portal from Facebook, GrandPad and other technologies and social media to connect without going out of the house if staying in is appropriate
AARP Foundation has created Connect2Affect to help connect seniors to others. You can start by taking their online assessment. Once completed, you will receive information on resources that may help you.
Because isolation can lead to depression, it is important to be aware of when you should seek help. Signs of progressing depression are hopelessness, a lack of motivation, a loss of interest in what you had been interested in before, weight change and sleeplessness. If you are feeling that you are showing signs of depression, you should have your physician conduct a formal assessment and explore appropriate treatment. Learn more about depression in older adults.
If you have thoughts of hurting yourself or someone else you can get immediate help by calling or texting the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chatting with them online.
The resources on our site are a good starting point to help develop your aging well plan. Everyone’s needs are unique — that is why we have people you can talk with regarding your individual goals.
