Social isolation and loneliness is a huge factor that affects the well being of many American senior citizens each year. This blog piece will talk about the ways that older adults can deal with loneliness especially if they are living on their own.
Loneliness And The Elderly: A Growing Epidemic
Loneliness can affect us at any age but we are more susceptible to feeling socially isolated and lonely as we age. In recent years, it has become more evident that it is becoming a growing problem for many senior citizens in America. The reasons as to why this happens are numerous including family members growing up and moving away, falling out of contact with old friends to loved ones passing away. If you are living alone, it can be even more likely that you will begin to feel lonely. Many American citizens that are lonely may also start to experience symptoms of depression as a result.
Although the feeling of loneliness can be overwhelming, it is important not to let these feelings consume you for both your physical and mental wellbeing. Dealing with loneliness is not impossible and should be acted on when the first signs of social isolation begin to show. With a little bit of hope, positivity and determination you can be sure that you will continue to feel happy in your older years.
5 Great Ways To Fight Off Feelings Of Loneliness
If you are wondering how to deal with loneliness as a senior citizen and the best ways to do this, keep reading. Below we mention our top tips for keeping social isolation at bay:
Make New Friends
A great way to manage feelings of loneliness is to make an effort to go out and meet new people. Many urban and rural places across America offer resources for seniors such as a senior centre, social functions or even bingo events. This could be a great place to begin meeting new faces and making acquaintances.
Having friendships in your life as you age is extremely important especially if you live by yourself and don’t have family living close by. These relationships will give you an opportunity to get out of the house and will be a form of emotional support. Oftentimes, the hardest part of making new friends is putting yourself out there in the first place. Yet, once you do you will certainly enjoy the benefits.
Start An Interesting Hobby
Starting a new hobby can be another perfect way to keep yourself entertained and occupied as you get older. Many people feel that as they age, their ability to pick up a new skill decreases. However, this is not the case at all. Hobbies are great for keeping us motivated, forward-thinking and uplifted. Consider taking up painting, doing a writing course or learn how to play a new instrument.
Even if one of these creative options isn’t your personal preference there are plenty of other activities that could keep you entertained. Many aging seniors enjoy spending time out in the garden or even just sitting down with a good book. Whatever kind of activity you would prefer, starting a new hobby or even picking up one you did in your youth can be very beneficial in helping to deal with loneliness.
Give Back To Your Community
Volunteering and giving back to our community can be an extremely fulfilling experience as we get older. Not only does it allow you to meet new people but it also gives you the opportunity to help others who are in need.
Make sure to check with your local senior centre for volunteering opportunities or ask a loved one to help you find an organization or charity that you would like to help. Whether it is by donating old clothes to the homeless or volunteering at a local charity event, getting out and giving back to the community can help us to put things into perspective and give us a sense of gratitude.
Go Out And Explore
Going out and exploring different places is an excellent way to help prevent feelings of social isolation and loneliness. Many people can begin to feel lonely when they are cooped up in their home for a long period of time. So, by making the effort to go and explore somewhere new you can really make a difference to how you are feeling.
Whether you decide to go to your local park or wish to visit another country, seeing a new place can not only improve your physical wellbeing but will also have huge benefits for you mentally.
Adopt A Pet
Animals have been found to be great companions for elderly individuals and are a great way to deal with loneliness. Owning a pet can be a very rewarding experience for American citizens especially if you are aging in place. It has been found that pets are capable of providing great emotional support to their owners and are able to sense when individuals are feeling sad or lonely. Many studies have agreed that pet ownership in our later years is beneficial for both healthy body and a healthy mind. So, why not consider visiting your local shelter and adopting a pet of your very own.
Keeping A Healthy Body And Mind While Aging
Feeling socially isolated or lonely as we get older is not uncommon but it doesn’t have to be the case. There are many ways that we can continue to be healthy in both mind and body while we age. If you are feeling lonely, use the tips above to help you deal with loneliness and make sure to speak with someone you love. Always remember, our golden years are there to be enjoyed.