Loneliness is an increasing issue in Australia, with one in three Australians estimated to be lonely. Unfortunately, the risk of loneliness increases as we age. The risk can be especially significant for those living in aged care. Some experts say the impact of loneliness on the ageing process can be worse than smoking. Social connection is the number one way for those over 65 to improve their quality of life. For maximum benefit, social interaction should be face-to-face.
So, what impacts does loneliness have on older Australians, and what can we do to address it?
The impact of loneliness on older Australians
Loneliness can have significant impacts on older Australians. For example, it can result in a decline in physical health. It can bring about new health conditions as well as worsening existing ones. For example, loneliness can increase the risk of depression, anxiety, stroke, heart disease, chronic pain and dementia. It can also lead to a breakdown in relationships and reduced independence.
Studies have revealed that loneliness can lead to premature death as much as obesity, smoking or a lack of physical activity.
Reasons older people become isolated
There are a number of factors that can lead to older Australians becoming increasingly isolated. These include:
· Location: Those needing to receive care may not always be able to find an aged care facility located close to family and friends. Therefore, older Australians may be forced to move away to receive care
· Lack of community: Many aged care facilities offer limited opportunities to interact with the community, both inside the facility and outside.
· Mobility: Older Australians may be unable to drive. They may also have less ability to get out and about and see friends.
· Physical health: Health issues may make it difficult for older Australians to get out and about and see friends. Friends at a similar stage of life may also be unwell and, therefore, unable to visit them.
· Lack of autonomy: When living in aged care facilities, older Australians can lose their ability to make choices, affecting their ability to interact with others.
Ways to combat loneliness in older Australians
There are several things you can do to help reduce the impact of loneliness on the older Australians in your life.
· Engage In Conversation: If you work in aged care, make an effort to engage in conversation with residents. Ask them how they are and what they have been doing. Share what you have been doing, or recommend a favourite book or TV show. If visiting a family member, try to make conversation with other residents where appropriate.
· Regular check-ins: As a caregiver, it’s important to encourage family members to establish a regular time for visits or check-ins. This not only gives the elderly something to look forward to but also helps structure their life.
· Get them involved: Caregivers should involve aged care residents in the planning, execution and evaluation of activities. Residents should be encouraged to participate in activities that allow them to take an active role in society. Where possible, they should be allowed to choose which activities they participate in.
· Be friendly: When you encounter older Australians in public, be nice to them. Look past any grumpiness, as it could be a sign that they are in pain. If you know them, be sure to greet them by name.
· Create connections: Whether you are a caregiver or a family member, offer older Australians opportunities for connection and participation. Where possible, inform them of community events they may be interested in attending.
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Ausmed (1 July 2024) Loneliness and Social Isolation in Aged Care, Ausmed, accessed 7 October 2024.
CatholicCare (1 July 2024) Love thy neighbour: How to help older people deal with loneliness and isolation, CatholicCare, accessed 7 October 2024.
Selmar Institute Of Education (n.d.) Combatting loneliness in aged care, Selmar Institute Of Education, accessed 7 October 2024.