Loss and Loneliness

For elderly people, this is the stage of sorrow that hurts the most. As the reality of the loss hits, this stage frequently happens 2-4 weeks following the incident. Your loved one may begin to view everyday issues in their life differently as they come to terms with their predicament. Things that were formerly commonplace or minor will become more significant. For instance, a person who has dealt with high cholesterol for years without voicing many complaints can unjustifiably elevate it to the level of an existential crisis. Also, start looking for solutions to fill the gap that loss and sadness have left at this point. It's possible to "fill the hole" in both beneficial and detrimental ways.

Signs and Symptoms

Feeling trapped in mourning
Hopelessness
Filling the void with unhealthier habits such as smoking and/or drinking
Loss of appetite and sleep

Advice

Right now, let your loved one know that there are established support networks nearby. This can include activities that provide a sense of community for people, such as social gatherings with family and friends, and church services.
Now is the time to keep an eye out for any signs of substance misuse if your loved one has a history of it.
It is typical for people with substance abuse difficulties to relapse and "fill the vacuum" with drugs and alcohol during periods of grief and loneliness.

How Online Counselling can be helpful?

The majority of elderly people will feel lonely or alone at some point in their lives. They experience loneliness for a variety of reasons, including no motivation towards life, after the death of a spouse, and becoming distant from their children, and others. By talking to someone, you can reduce your sense of loneliness and gain a greater understanding of why you feel that way. There is nothing abnormal about feeling lonely; you are perfectly normal to feel that way. However, loneliness can occasionally be a sign of a more serious mental health issue, necessitating medical attention. Geriatric counselling should be recommended for the same

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Seniors deal with loneliness?

Older adults are more likely to experience factors like living alone, losing friends or family, having a chronic illness, and having hearing loss, which increases their risk of loneliness and social isolation. No matter how many people you interact with, loneliness is the sensation of being alone. Make a safety plan with the guidance of an expert geriatric counsellor, either in person or in an online counselling session.

What is the main factor causing loneliness?

Loneliness can have many different causes. Living alone, moving into a different place to live, experiencing financial difficulties, or losing a loved one are all examples of situations or life changes that can lead to loneliness.

What steps can be taken to address the issue of senior loneliness?

These consist of making friends, social skill development, community and support groups, and cognitive behavioural therapy. It is possible to lessen social isolation and loneliness by building more age-friendly communities and enhancing access to transportation, information, and communication technologies. If you are worried about an elderly relative, schedule an online counselling session. This would make it much easier for elderly people to cope.

To facilitate a healthy grieving process for an aged person consider online geriatric counselling with a geriatric counsellor having expertise in elder care.