Loneliness and social isolation are common among the elderly often leading to declining health and poor quality of life.

The recent US Census found that 11 million or 28% of people aged 65 and older live alone. Statistics Canada reports 20% of Canadian seniors do not participate in weekly or even monthly activities.

Social contacts tend to decrease as we age for a variety of reasons including retirement, the death of friends and family members and the lack of mobility. Regardless of the reasons of senior isolation, the consequences can be alarming and even frightening.

In a 3-year study* loneliness was found to be a significant contributor to poor self-rated health scores. Examples of illness and debilitation are: increased blood pressure and cholesterol levels, hypertension, depression, motor decline, to name a few. The study also found that self-rated health improved when loneliness lessened.

To decrease loneliness and social isolation, multiple intervention strategies include:

• a. Deepening seniors understanding of the effects of loneliness and the importance of positive action.
• b. Increasing family contacts and associated activities (i.e. meal preparation, dinner out, watching a movie together, family walks, etc.)
• c. Participating in community events and remaining active in one’s local affairs (i.e. planning & implementing annual parades, charity walks, joining the board of directors connected with these events, etc.)
• d. Joining a service or social club (i.e. Lions, Optimists, Probus, book club, knitting circle, hiking club, etc.)
• e. Reading, though a solitary activity, allows the person to stay in contact with the larger world.
• f. Gardening can provide a function and purpose, and long-term satisfaction in watching the planned and created plot flourish.
• g. Taking care of a pet; provides satisfaction and companionship

Interacting with others is important at all stages of life. When we retire, we leave many associations behind, and we also lose conventional places to build friendships, share common interests, and enjoy the company of others. Being active will fulfill one’s social activity needs and often meets the individual’s education and exercise needs too.

The important thing is to get out there and participate, socialize, meet new people, and make new friends. If you’re not used to being very social, you might need to push yourself. Don’t let isolation creep up on you. Our church has an unusual Bible study group. Since we read and discuss books on many religions, it’s closer to a comparative religion course with a good deal of political discussion thrown in. The group is open to anyone over the age of eighteen, which makes for an interesting mix in the discussion. Mitchell O., former carpenter.

* Nummela O, Seppinen M, Uutela A. The Effect of Loneliness and Change in Loneliness on Self-Rated Health: A Longitudinal Study Among Aging People. Arch Gerontol Geriatr November 17, 2010