EEH: Lonely, isolated older adults face associated health risks

Humans are social beings. Even before the coronavirus disrupted social lives, experts have long studied the health effects of isolation and loneliness. There’s one group at high risk — older adults.

As people get older, many are alone more often. This lack of connection leaves them vulnerable.

Loneliness (the feeling of being alone) and social isolation (a lack of social connections) affect a significant number of older adults in the U.S. Many adults aged 50 and older are socially isolated or lonely in ways that put their health at risk, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

“Health problems associated with social isolation and loneliness include depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease,” says Charles Lawler, M.D. with Elmhurst Memorial Medical Group, an internal medicine physician who specializes in geriatrics. “Some studies suggests that people who feel lonely may have weakened immune cells and have trouble fighting off illnesses.”

The CDC states that 80 percent of older adults have at least one chronic health condition, and 50 percent have two or more. Chronic illness can put older adults at increased risk for depression, which takes a toll on the body and increases the risk of developing illnesses like heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

What can older adults do to prevent the negative health effects of social isolation and loneliness? First, talk to a doctor. A doctor can assess their risk for loneliness and social isolation and work with them to help prevent associated medical conditions.

People can also try these tips to combat loneliness and isolation as they age:

• Engage in meaningful, productive activities with others.
• Join a support group for older adults or a religious organization for spiritual support.
• Find a sense of purpose. It’s a buffer against stress, anxiety and depression.
• Structure days by setting goals that become part of a regular routine.
• Help others by volunteering at a hospital, animal shelter or organization.
• Work for a social cause with others who share the same values.
• Do something they enjoy each day (e.g., reading, writing, drawing, music, puzzles, games).
• Take a class (e.g., art, cooking, swimming, yoga)
• Practice gratitude. It can lead to more life satisfaction, among other health benefits.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle (e.g., eat well, get good sleep, exercise regularly).
• Consult with a doctor who has expertise in geriatric populations and/or seek help from a professional geriatric counselor.
• Access community resources, including AARP, Illinois Department on Aging, Eldercare Locator and National Council on Aging.

Keep in mind, people can feel lonely regardless of the amount of social contact they have. Some people don’t mind being alone and don’t feel lonely when they’re alone. Others feel lonely while among a group of people.

Changes in mood, energy level or appetite that persist or interfere with everyday life should not be dismissed as a normal part of getting older.

For more information, visit EEHealth.org.