Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors
It’s a key part of the human psyche to be social and coexist
with other people. We are so hard-wired to be social and interact with people
that denying it can cause mental health conditions such as depression.
Yet even with this predisposition toward social behavior,
27% of Americans 60 and over are living alone. When compared with other
countries, this is an unusually high number, the second highest in the world.
For instance, in countries like Algeria and Afghanistan, the number of older
adults living alone is less than 5%.
There are several reasons why an older adult over 60 may
find themselves alone:
By choice
Spouse death
Divorce
No children
No living family
No family living nearby
Here’s how you can live your best life while living alone
after 60.
You Can Be Alone
Without Being Lonely
Being alone isn’t necessarily the same as being lonely.
Being alone simply means that you don’t have anyone else in your space, and you
may be OK with that. Being lonely is an entirely different matter and stems
from an emotional state of feeling isolated. You may crave human company, but
for whatever reason it does not happen, and you are left with an empty feeling
and longing for companionship.
If you are living alone and experiencing feelings of
loneliness, there are ways to change it. Loneliness can cause certain health
conditions if something isn’t done to address it.
Loneliness in Those
Over 60
Loneliness is a serious problem among older adults. One
report found that more than 30% of adults over 45 experience loneliness. It
also found that almost a quarter of adults 65 and older are considered to be
experiencing social isolation.
Social isolation causes deep loneliness, and with that can
come several health conditions. Research shows:
A person who is experiencing social isolation is
significantly more likely to die prematurely from conditions such as a heart
attack, stroke, or diabetes.
Loneliness causes or increases depression, suicide, and
anxiety.
Heart failure patients who experience loneliness are four
times more likely to die.
A person who is socially isolated is approximately 50% more
likely to get dementia.
Loneliness can disrupt sleep, raise blood pressure, and
increase stress levels.
A person who is socially isolated, has poor social
relationships, or is lonely has a 32% increased risk of stroke and a 29%
increased risk of heart disease.
Loneliness can be a predictor of functional decline and even
death in adults over 60.
Tips for Beating
Loneliness
If you’re experiencing loneliness, it’s time to make a
change. Try these tips for managing loneliness and living your best life:
Think about what triggers your loneliness. Does it happen
when you hear a certain song on the radio? When you smell a certain aroma? Do
you feel lonely on certain days of the week? Does weather affect it? Getting a
good grasp of what is causing you to feel lonely can help you stop feeling
lonely. Find positive activities to fill those empty spaces.
Try a sport or physical activity. Did you golf years ago or
ride your bike? You may want to give that another try. Doing something
enjoyable that gets you out and about can help you feel better faster.
Give your diet an overhaul. Certain foods just drag you
down. Sugar is a huge culprit. Opt for fresh, natural foods when you can to
help you feel better.
Do a word puzzle, crossword puzzle, or brain games. Keeping
your mind active is not only a healthy part of aging, but it can also help
alleviate the depressive fog of loneliness. Grab a buddy, either in real life
or online, and have a little friendly competition or work the puzzles together.
You’ll feel your spirits lift in no time.
Take a walk to get some exercise. Being physically active is
good for your mind as well as your body. Walking is a great, low-impact way to
get your heart rate up and sweat a little, but there are other ways as well.
You can take a class, join a gym, or get a friend and do some simple workouts
together.
Think about getting a pet. A dog or cat is not a replacement
for humans, but they can be very good company, especially when you are feeling
down.
Get some sleep. Everything looks better after a good night’s
sleep. Loneliness can cause you to have sleep problems, which only makes you
feel worse. By finding ways to get good, restful, restorative sleep, you can
combat feelings of loneliness and depression at the same time.
Try something new. Think of some activities you always
wanted to try but never took the plunge. Now go out there and give them a try.
Learn a language, take a class in wreath making, or try your hand at baking —
the possibilities are endless.
Connect with people. Find ways to be around people, whether
you take some classes, visit your area’s senior center, or volunteer.
Resources for Older
Adults Who Are Lonely
There are some very good resources for older adults. Many
have special programs that will draw older adults into social situations and
events. See what they have in your area.
National Association of Area Agencies on Aging — A network
with hundreds of organizations all over the country that offer information,
resources, and assistance with programs like caregiver support, meal programs,
counseling, nutrition, and more.
AARP — A tremendous resource for older adults to help them
get involved with their community and improve their quality of life.
National Council on Aging — A network of government
agencies, nonprofit organizations, and businesses that offer services to older
adults as well as community programs. Its reach extends all over the United
States.
Eldercare Locator — A national service that is free to use.
It helps older individuals and their families connect with vital resources such
as caregiving services, financial support, and transportation.
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