Loneliness among seniors is a serious issue that can have profound negative effects on their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. As seniors get older they may lose friends, spouses, and loved ones which can cause them to become isolated. Seniors who are aging in place are particularly at risk of social isolation and loneliness. Loneliness can cause anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems. But seniors who are isolated and lonely can experience physical health problems as a result of their isolation too. Companion care at home services are a great solution for seniors who have a hard time leaving the house to get together with family or friends.
With companion care at home, seniors may be able to avoid serious health problems caused by loneliness such as:
Cognitive Decline
Loneliness has been linked to cognitive decline and an increased risk of developing conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Social engagement and mental stimulation are important for maintaining cognitive function, and the absence of these factors due to loneliness can contribute to cognitive deterioration. Seniors who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia need social interaction to help maintain their cognitive function as long as possible.
Cardiovascular Health Issues
Loneliness can cause heart disease and other cardiovascular illnesses. Studies have shown that loneliness is associated with higher blood pressure, an increased risk of heart disease, and a higher likelihood of experiencing heart-related events like heart attacks. The stress and emotional toll of loneliness can contribute to these adverse effects on the cardiovascular system.
Weakened Immune System
Loneliness can weaken the immune system’s response to infections and illnesses. Seniors who are socially isolated may have compromised immune function, making them more susceptible to illnesses and infections. It’s very important for seniors who are aging in place to have a social outlet and to spend time with friends and loved ones to maintain their physical health.
Poor Sleep Quality
Loneliness can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to poor sleep quality. Sleep is crucial for overall health, and seniors who experience loneliness may have difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restorative sleep.
Increased Inflammation
Chronic loneliness has been linked to increased levels of inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a factor in many chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Therefore, loneliness can contribute to the development and progression of these conditions.
Unhealthy Habits
Loneliness can lead to the adoption of unhealthy habits as seniors seek comfort. These may include overeating, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and neglecting proper nutrition. These habits can further contribute to health issues and diminish overall well-being.
Reduced Lifespan
Research has indicated that loneliness is associated with a higher mortality rate among seniors. The emotional and physiological toll of loneliness can ultimately impact life expectancy.
Diminished Quality of Life
Overall, loneliness significantly diminishes the quality of life for seniors. The absence of social connections and meaningful relationships can lead to a lack of purpose, joy, and fulfillment in daily life.
Sources: https://www.cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/lonely-older-adults.html
https://ncoa.org/article/navigating-social-isolation-and-loneliness-as-an-older-adult
https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/social-isolation-loneliness-older-people-pose-health-risks
If you or an aging loved one are considering Companion Care at Home Services near Danbury CT, please call and talk to our friendly and dedicated staff. (203) 744-8380
Home Care Advantage provides quality Non-Medical Home Care for seniors and families in Danbury, Bethel, Easton, Newtown, Redding, Ridgefield, Southbury, Weston, Westport, Wilton, and surrounding areas.
With over 25 years of healthcare experience working with seniors, our model and approach to non-medical home care services are straightforward, providing you with the compassionate care you deserve. Providing care from the heart is what we are all about; we proactively work with you and your family to develop a care plan designed to meet your specific need for assistance and budget.
In addition to having an extensive work background in healthcare, my recent educational experience allowed me to earn my Doctorate Degree in public healthcare. This achievement enhanced my knowledge of the ever-evolving healthcare delivery system and heightened my awareness that you cannot go it alone to get the best outcome. Additionally, I have seen how some of my family members struggled and were overwhelmed with ensuring that their parents were safe and their needs were met. They did not know who to trust or where to turn for reliable and affordable help. I have made it our mission to be part of the solution allowing seniors to remain independent and be treated with the respect they deserve.
We are committed to providing excellent care for our clients, just as we would care for members of our own families. Please be assured that I will use my knowledge and background to protect and be a trusted resource for seniors and their families.
You can be confident that our caregivers are carefully screened, dependable, and selectively chosen to meet the specific needs of our clients. They are experienced and highly trained to provide excellent quality care and follow a strict professional code of conduct and ethics.
Our caregivers are competitively paid directly by our agency; there is no additional charge to you. Home Care Advantage files Social Security/Medicare, Federal and State Withholding Tax, and Unemployment Insurance for our employees. Workers’ compensation insurance and a fidelity bond cover the caregivers and supervisory staff.
Our caregivers are here for you and will work hard to assist you with your specific needs in the comfort of your own home. It is said that “Home is where the heart is.” Let Home Care Advantage provide care that will enrich your life and help you maintain an independent lifestyle in the comfort of your own home, “where you want to be.” Call us now! We look forward to working with you and your family.
Dr. Beverly J. Ruekberg, DHP, MPH, MA, Ed.
President/Geriatric Care Manager
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