The Importance of Social Interaction Among Seniors

One of the great comedians of all time made this statement in a light hearted way but in

truth, “getting older” is much more than age.

Many seniors today are lonely. Loneliness is much more than being alone from time to

time. When someone is lonely they may be surrounded by people and still feel isolated.

Many factors have contributed to what is being considered a “Loneliness Epidemic” by

some. Families and friends separated by career opportunities across the country and

seniors moving to warmer climates can weaken the support system as loved ones age.

This can often force a caregiving role onto a spouse which, over time, can cause

isolation. Needless to say the loss of a spouse can be devastating for anyone,

especially seniors who may have been together for many years.

Chronic loneliness among our aging population can take a tragic toll on the mental and

physical health of the senior population. There is a pretty shocking financial hit as well.

A study by AARP on loneliness calculated that Medicare spends approximately $134

more for every lonely senior than for a socially connected adult. That adds up to $6.7

billion in spending each year. So America has a strong incentive to address the

problems of loneliness and isolation through research and resources to slow this crises.

How Senior Living Communities can help

The reasons an aging senior choses to move to a community are as vast as the cookie

selection at the grocery store. Some do not “chose” as much as they are “urged” by

loved ones to make the move. Whatever the reason, results from the AARP study

reveal that overall changes in mental wellness improves for seniors who have

experienced loneliness and or depression. Social interaction, activities, a well-balanced

diet have all been shown to increase dopamine levels which can help to combat

depression.

Seniors who are busy, active and around other people do not have as many doctor

visits. This is not to say they neglect their health but do not find as many reasons to visit

the doctor. As a matter of fact, active seniors have a lower risk of:

 Diabetes

 High blood pressure

 Depression

 Heart disease

If you know a senior who shows signs of loneliness or isolation try to help. Small steps

can lead to bringing a friend or neighbor back to life. The following suggestions are easy

ways to start.

Visit often and interact. Offer to shop for them or take them shopping.

Play cards or take them to bingo

Maybe volunteering would interest them. Check into places they could do good things.

Ask them to visit your place of worship. People are very good at recruiting new comers

for duties that will get them involved

Help them with social media. They may not have seen their grandkids in a while

Go for a walk in the neighborhood. They could potentially meet a new friend

Sometimes a pet is just what the doctor ordered. Maybe start with a pet visiting

organization or volunteering at a shelter

Keep the ears in check. Hearing concerns are often a way for seniors to opt out of

conversations

Make sure they can get to and from places. Help them organize local, trustworthy

transportation

Ask them about their life. See if they need or want help. Sometimes they just need an

ear.

Recognizing the problem is the first step. The solution can look different for each

individual but there is help available. If a Senior Living Community is an option reach out

to the professionals at The Cove at Tavares Village. We will be happy to speak with you

about making the transition as simple as possible.