The Loneliness Risk

This morning, I read a statement about loneliness.  It read, “I’m 73 and I can tell you the exact moment aging became lonely: it was when my daughter started saying ‘we should get together soon’ instead of picking a date, and I realized I’d become optional.”

Loneliness among retirees and older adults is a significant public health concern with estimates of 19% to 57% reporting experiencing some level of loneliness.  In Canada, a recent 2024-2026 report suggests the figure is close to 57%.  In the United States an AARP survey found that 43% of adults aged 60 and older reported feeling lonely.

The Loneliness Risk

Some of the factors increasing the loneliness risk are:

  • Seniors living in institutionalized settings like nursing homes.
  • Being widowed, separated or divorced or never married.
  • Limited mobility
  • Lack of transportation, especially those living in rural areas
  • Health challenges
  • Financial constraints
  • Limited understanding and use of modern technology
  • Cultural factors such as limited language skills, discrimination and lack of social recognition (i.e. new immigrants)

Actions to Reduce Loneliness

Reducing loneliness involves actively fostering social connections, engaging in meaningful activities, and restructuring unhelpful thinking.

A. Building Social Connections

  • Strengthen existing ties: Schedule regular, consistent calls, video chats, or visits with friends, family, and neighbours.
  • Leverage hobbies: Join classes, clubs (e.g. book clubs, walking groups) to meet people with shared interests.
  • Volunteer: Engaging in community service offers purpose and social interaction.
  • Leverage technology: Utilize social media, join online forums, or use apps to connect with others.
  • nitiate contact: Take the initiative to suggest activities with others.

    B. Managing Feelings

    • Reframe thinking: Challenge your thoughts that you are the only one feeling lonely. Understand that loneliness is a temporary common experience.
    • Engage in self-care: Focus on hobbies, reading, exercise, and good sleep hygiene which can improve mood and reduce stress.
    • Consider counselling: If feelings are overwhelming, talking to a mental health professional can provide the tools to manage your feelings.

    C. Structured Routine

    • Regularity: Create a routine that involves going to the same places (e.g. a café, library, gym) at the same time to foster familiarity and potential connections.
    • Adopt a pet: Pets offer companionship, routine, and can be a bridge to meeting others.

    Question?

    What have you found as ways to combat loneliness in retirement?