The research on loneliness in older adults is frightening. Loneliness is implicated in declines in cognitive and functional capability, as well as a higher risk of mental health disorders. It negatively impacts the course of major diseases, and even appears to contribute to less and lower quality of sleep. So when your aging parent or loved one tells you that they’ve been feeling lonely, is it time to panic? 

The short answer is no. Not all loneliness is the same, and not every case of loneliness requires the same sorts of interventions. 

Types of loneliness

There are at least three types of loneliness. These are characterized by the types of relationships and connections that the lonely individual feels to be absent from their life, or not present to the degree that they desire. 

Emotional Loneliness

 Emotional Loneliness is what people feel when their lives lack the level and type of close, intimate friendships and relationships that they desire. Emotional loneliness isn’t always obvious – someone with a full social life but lacking an intimate partner could be lonely, or vice versa. 

Social Loneliness

Social loneliness is the lack of desired relationships with family members, neighbors, or other social circles. The socially lonely may enjoy emotional closeness and warmth with some individuals, but don’t experience the breadth of connection that they would like. 

Collective Loneliness

Collective loneliness is the experience of not being valued as part of a group. These groups could be voluntary associations, workplaces, or social groups built from common experience. Even seniors with close friendships and an active family life could feel a little lost without being able to identify themselves as belonging to one of these groups. 

When should you be worried? 

Like most emotional states, loneliness isn’t experienced with the same frequency or intensity by everyone. Intense, constant, and long-lasting loneliness is the most dangerous kind. If your parents report that they are feeling a little lonely, or that they feel lonely every once in a while, you can breathe easier. On the other hand, if your parents confess that they have felt seriously lonely for a long time, it is time to get to work on a game plan. 

What can you do about loneliness in older adults? 

Addressing loneliness in older adults isn’t a one size fits all solution. Some adults are lonely because they are grieving the loss of a partner, a career, or an active life. Those aren’t things that can be easily replaced. However, this type of loss is usually something that can be adjusted to with time. For senior citizens experiencing loneliness of other types, more direct interventions may be required. These could include plans for more contact with family members, personal care services, or membership in a social group. 

Family Choice Healthcare

If your elderly parents or loved ones are feeling lonely, and you’re wondering what you can do about it, get in touch with us here. We specialize in providing personalized in-home care that can helps people live safe, independent lives in their own home, while also providing regular, warm, caring social contact for them.