The American Medical Association recently published a special report, “What Doctors Wish Patients Knew About Loneliness and Health” (7/14/23).  It stated that even though we have become more connected through social media and other outlets, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, many people, especially older adults, still feel lonely.

According to the Center for Disease Control, “Loneliness and social isolation in older adults are serious public health risks affecting a significant number of people in the U.S. and putting them at risk for dementia and other serious medical conditions.” As we age, we become more vulnerable to social isolation, which is related to additional health problems such as cognitive decline, depression, and heart disease.

Furthermore, older people who are socially isolated or feel lonely are more likely to be admitted to the hospital because they are at higher risks for:

• High blood pressure
• Sleeping difficulties
• Heart disease
• Obesity
• Weakened immune function
• Anxiety

People who find themselves unexpectedly alone because of the death of a spouse or partner, separation from family and friends, retirement, loss of mobility, and lack of proper transportation are at particular risk.

Studies from the National Institute on Aging show that people who engage in meaningful relationships, productive activities, mental challenges, and gentle physical activities tend to live longer, elevate their mood, maintain their well-being, and may even have improved cognitive function.

Recognizing loneliness and identifying what patients can do to combat this pressing health issue is an important first step. Fortunately, there are many uncomplicated ways to counteract these negative effects.

Activities

Schedule activities with family, friends, and neighbors. Building social time in your schedule makes it automatic and gives you something to look forward to. These activities can include:

• Game night
• Book club
• Art class
• Movie night
• Cooking class
• Walking club
• Puzzle club

Volunteer

Volunteering with a local organization provides an opportunity to give back while forming and maintaining social relationships. Places to consider:

• Faith-based organizations
• Animal shelters
• Libraries
• Schools and camps (reading buddy programs)
• Museums
• Community centers

Care for a Pet

For those who can care for a pet or pets, research has shown the companionship formed with pets improves both physical and mental health. In fact, more than 50% of older adults have pets, including a dog, cat, or small pet such as a bird, fish, or hamster. Pet owners say their pets help them:

• Enjoy life
• Feel loved
• Reduce stress
• Provide a sense of purpose
• Keep physically active
• Cope with physical and emotional symptoms

Establish a Daily Routine Outside the Home

Incorporating at least one social outlet that seems enjoyable and feasible into your daily routine will help form better social habits. Of course, you do not have to do the same thing each day of the week. Mix and match by going to such places as:

• Local coffee shop or diner
• Favorite park bench
• Specialty retail store
• Mall or plaza
• Live entertainment event
• Library or bookstore

As seniors navigate the years after retirement, many older adults relocate to a senior living community to avert loneliness and live more social lives. According to Ben Mandelbaum, CEO of Senior Planning Services in Lakewood, New Jersey published in Forbes 4/16/24, “Senior living allows older adults to continue to live and prosper in the safest, most appropriate environment based on their medical and physical capabilities and/or limitations.”

At a Life Plan Community, such as the international award-winning John Knox Village (JKV) in Pompano Beach, Florida, wellness, life enrichment, lifelong learning, and transportation to area shopping and entertainment are inherent for the residents each day.

For the past 50+ years, JKV has set the bar when it comes to delivering an all-inclusive resort lifestyle designed for living life to the fullest at each stage of retirement. JKV emphasizes fitness and overall well-being with world-class programming, state-of-the-art amenities, healthy & delicious dining and much more for our one thousand residents. Residents are entitled to unlimited use of healthcare services on campus, with 24/7 wellness nurses. There are no time or financial limits on the long-term care benefits that residents receive, regardless of the level of care required. Simply put, a life plan contract at JKV provides a fiscal safety net with an unparalleled community geared to a wide range of needs for living life to its fullest at every stage of retirement.

Contact us today for a no-pressure conversation with a Life Plan Consultant, or to schedule your campus tour.