Isolation and deep loneliness

Chronic loneliness refers to prolonged social isolation and feelings of disconnection, which can be accompanied by low self-esteem or social anxiety. Even outgoing people can experience it. Long-term loneliness can negatively impact all aspects of life, particularly for older individuals who may struggle to establish new relationships due to various physical limitations. Some people believe that younger individuals are not interested in establishing friendships with older individuals and that older individuals should not worry about their loneliness because they will soon pass away.

Symptoms

Chronic loneliness can manifest in various symptoms like-

Difficulty connecting with others on a personal level,
Fleeting and unfulfilling interactions with acquaintances,
A constant feeling of isolation,
A sense of alienation in social and professional settings.

This can lead to unfavourable beliefs about one's self-worth and confidence, burnout and exhaustion in social situations, an increased risk of cognitive deterioration, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, sleep problems, and increased stress. In older individuals, limited social engagement can even lead to death by suicide.

Causes

Low-quality or nonexistent social ties are frequently to blame for the loneliness and social isolation that older people feel. However, there are other additional factors, including getting older than 80, dealing with chronic health conditions, and altering family structures, that could contribute to these problems. As we get older, social interactions tend to decline as a result of retirement, friend, and family passing away, and less mobility.

Elderly social isolation has additional causes, such as:

Disability
Being single
Limited resources
Reduced mobility
No nearby family
Not having been married
Transportation difficulties
Widowed, divorced, or separated
Inability to maintain mental and physical activity
Accessibility issues and inequalities brought on by living in a remote area or belonging to a marginalized group
Poor physical and mental health, including untreated hearing loss, ageing, and frailty
Social hindrances including ageism and a lack of participation possibilities for older individuals

Treatment

Speaking with an online therapist can help individuals improve their mental and physical health and overcome feelings of loneliness, especially if they are uncertain about the root cause of their loneliness.

An online counsellor can assist in exploring the circumstances in their lives that may be contributing to these emotions. In loneliness counseling, the goal is to help individuals identify the values they seek in relationships, leading to meaningful and resonant connections. Additionally, seniors struggling with loneliness can seek online consultation from a geriatric counsellor who is well-equipped to understand elder care and the issues associated with loneliness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top two causes of loneliness among older people?

Older people are more likely to experience loneliness and social isolation because they are more likely to encounter problems like living alone, losing friends or family, having a chronic illness, and having hearing loss. Loneliness is the feeling of being alone, regardless of the amount of social interaction. Online geriatric counselling may be very beneficial when you need support or want to talk to someone about your loneliness, your emotions, or any other mental health issue.

Can loneliness and deep isolation be gendered?

Studies indicate that elderly women experience isolation and deep loneliness more frequently than older men. Although older men also experience isolation and loneliness, older women report it in higher numbers.

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What risk factors are associated with loneliness and isolation in elderly?

Bereavement, widowhood, retirement, loss of sensory and motor abilities, poor health, living with a mental health condition, living in residential homes, living alone, separation from a partner, and losing friends to age are the risk factors associated with loneliness in the elderly.

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