Understanding the Types of Loneliness Seniors Face

Loneliness isn’t only the state of being alone. It is a complex emotion, an elaborate experience that has distinct impacts on people. For the elderly, loneliness or a sense of isolation may appear in many forms, each with its own set of challenges. Often family members try many options to keep the elderly member busy or connected. However, in most cases, it requires professional attention.

Here at Anthem Assisted Living in Arizona, we comprehend how detrimental loneliness can be for senior citizens. Hence we strive to create a surrounding where community, connection, and care form the foundation stones of all that occurs during our daily lives.

Emotional Loneliness:

Let’s first discuss the emotional isolation experienced by seniors today. It is a feeling like when everyone around you is one, yet you feel all alone! It can affect persons of all ages but a majority of old persons tend to exhibit this more. Senior citizens experience this most, especially when they lose their spouses or close friends. They have relied on these bonds for many years only to notice one day that they have all disappeared.

It can be quite tough for older people who are going through emotional isolation. However, in our assisted living home, we create opportunities for seniors to build meaningful relationships. So they can develop a sense of belonging and purpose.

Social Loneliness:

As per the name, this form of loneliness results from the absence of social relationships or networks. When seniors retire, relocate from their homes, or have mobility problems that prevent them from taking part in social engagements. In such situations, they often experience this type of loneliness. The lively social life they used to enjoy slowly fades away making them feel estranged from the universe.

Social loneliness is not only an emotional burden but also triggers physical as well as mental health problems. Isolation has been linked with increased susceptibility towards depression, anxiety disorders, and even loss of cognitive functions. At senior living in Anthem, we know how essential it is for our elderly people to be involved socially. Also, we promote various activities every day in our lively community. So residents may remain connected engaged and socially satisfied.

Existential Loneliness:

Existence has its own kind of solitude. After retirement, most people lack the purpose of existence and become depressed. So in addition to inquiring what legacy they have left behind, individuals might also be preoccupied with questions about mortality. It goes beyond just being lonely in the social aspect. It involves discovering what makes sense when faced with drastic transformations that ultimately define existence.

However, the feeling of isolation may sometimes become unbearable but can be conquered all the same. Spiritual and emotional support can deal with these difficult thoughts effectively. We create an atmosphere where seniors may share their experiences. So they may open up their hearts or simply discuss their emotions with other seniors.

Effects of Loneliness:

The impact of loneliness is widespread. It does not only represent psychological conditions but also poses risks to our health as well. Increased blood pressure, heart problems, and weakened immunity can occur over time due to prolonged isolation. Mentally it can provoke depression or anxiety disorder as well as declination in cognitive functioning. For older people, these consequences may become even stronger thus it is essential to address them immediately. On the brighter side, however, solitariness is preventable and curable. Seniors living alone should have surroundings hospitable enough where they receive support from friends or family members. So they would not feel lonely anymore throughout their lifetime. Anthem Assisted Living in Arizona focuses on creating such an environment for seniors. So, if you are worried about the sense of isolation in elderly family members, call 602-909-9550 and schedule a visit now.