With the global pandemic and older adults’ increased risk of serious infections, staying socially engaged has become increasingly difficult. Senior loneliness impacts not only mental health, but physical health as well. So how do we meet our social needs? We have compiled a list of tips to overcome loneliness during these unparalleled times.
How Loneliness Impacts Our Health
According to the CDC, senior loneliness and social isolation pose serious health risks to older adults. Social isolation affects nearly a quarter of adults 65 and older, with minorities experiencing it at a higher rate. Because people are social by nature, this can significantly impact our physical and mental health. Studies show that social isolation can lead to:
- Increased risk of premature death by all causes
- Increased risk of dementia by 50%
- Higher rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide
- Increased risk of stroke by 32%
- Increased risk of heart disease by 29%
Tips to Overcoming Loneliness While Staying Healthy
We know how difficult it can be to make new friends, especially during a pandemic. We also know how important it is to stay social, so we have compiled a list of ways to stay connected and support your physical and mental health.
- Create a daily agenda and stick to it. It can be things as simple as going for a walk every day at the same time, planning your meals, and penciling in phone calls. Regardless of what you decide to put on your agenda, be sure to follow it even if you aren’t in the mood.
- Join virtual community groups. Whether you love to read, write, make crafts, or watch sports, there is a group for that. Start with your local community center to see what clubs they offer. If you don’t find something that interests you, Facebook is a great platform for finding people who share your interests.
- Exercise routinely. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins. Endorphins are a mood-boosting chemical produced in the brain. In addition to giving you a sense of well-being, exercise also promotes heart health, improves balance and coordination, lowers blood pressure, and contributes to more restful sleep. You can talk to your doctor about an at-home workout routine that would be most beneficial to you, or look into joining a virtual Zumba class to combat senior loneliness.
- Find pen pals. Finding a pen pal is a great way to stay connected to others outside of your home, and it gives you something to look forward to in the mail other than bills. Global PenFriend is a free website that can help you connect with people from all over the world.
- Schedule regular video calls with friends and family. Another way to combat senior loneliness is by staying connected with your loved ones. Have a trusted friend or family member download a free video-calling app like Zoom. With this app, you can video chat with your loved ones in real time. Scheduling regular calls will give you something to look forward to and makes for a great opportunity to talk about how you are feeling.
- Discover new hobbies. If you don’t have a hobby, now is the time to find one. Participating in activities that you enjoy can give you satisfaction, but it can also allow you to meet new people with similar interests. You are never too old to try new things and meet new people.
- Play online games with family and friends. Online gaming is not just for the youth; many older adults play games on the internet as well. There is a lot to choose from like online poker, card games, chess, and other board games. Many of these games have chat features that allow you to interact with other players while in the game. If you aren’t comfortable talking to strangers, ask family or friends to join you in your favorite online game.
- Consult your physician. If you are struggling with senior loneliness and isolation, talk to your doctor. They may have resources to help you stay connected and decide if you may be suffering from anxiety or depression.
- Adopt a pet. Adopting a pet can be a great way to stay socially connected. According to the CDC, owning a pet can decrease blood pressure, lower lipids like cholesterol and triglyceride, and decrease symptoms of loneliness and anxiety. Think about what kind of a pet you would like to have and how much care it would need. A pet does not have to be limited to a cat or a dog; consider pocket pets such as hamsters and guinea pigs as they generally cost less and may be easier for a person with limited mobility.
Invest in Your Future With Americo Senior Life
Planning for your future keeps you invested in it, and Americo Senior Life can help. With our affordable whole life insurance policies, you can find coverage that fits your budget. We offer flexible death benefits; you can obtain coverage for end-of-life expenses or even leave a legacy for your loved ones. Call us today, or go online to receive your free life insurance quote!