Signs And Effects Of Loneliness In The Elderly

Unfortunately, one "normal" part of aging, for many, is being alone. However, the depression and sadness that frequently go along with chronic loneliness do not have to be part of the aging process.

Loneliness in the elderly encourages all the wrong things – i.e., negative health-related problems including the following:

• High blood pressure and heart disease
• Cognitive decline as in cases of dementia and Alzheimer's
• Depression
• Mortality risks and more

Loneliness can actually have physical effects on your loved one including a weakened immune system, poor heart health, sleep deprivation, weight gain, and other undesirable issues.

Why Is Your Loved One Lonely?

Among older adults, specific factors that lead to loneliness are somewhat unique but frequently fall under common categories. If your loved one moves to a retirement home but then loses contact with their friends, though there are opportunities for socialization at the retirement community, they may still be lonely. They miss their colleagues. If a partner or spouse passes away, they will undoubtedly feel loneliness.

As adults age, the causes of loneliness can vary. Some of the causes include the following:

• Financial difficulties
• They're worried about being a burden
• Lack of transportation
• They have difficulty talking, listening, or suffer from poor physical health
• Their living environment has changed
• They suffer the loss of a network of companions, friends, etc.
• Retirement
• Bereavement

How to Know if Your Loved One Is Lonely

The following are signs and symptoms of loneliness:

• They are associating and interacting with people they would not ordinarily have associated with (suspicious people).
• Health issues that are more imaginary than real.
• Behavioral changes.
• They tell you they’re lonely.
• Spending more and more time at home, alone.
• A drastic change in how often they call you or their friends.
• Mentions of friends, relatives, etc., that they haven't seen in years.
• Loss of appetite.
• Excessive purchases either online or at stores – or both.
• A drastic change in sleep habits.

They Don't Have to Be Lonely!

Fortunately, there are numerous activities in which your loved one can participate to fight off loneliness. Here are just a handful:

• Set up breakfasts, lunches, or dinners with friends
• Participate in a hobby such as a neighborhood common garden
• Take a dance class or some other type of class
• Go to neighborhood concerts in the park
• Volunteer for an organization and much, much more

No Need to Feel Lonely at Discovery Village At Palm Beach Gardens

If they choose to, your loved one will have a full calendar every month thanks to all the field trips, activities, and special events that take place at Discovery Village At Palm Beach Gardens. Just to give you an example, some of our retirement living community events for the rest of 2021 include the Professional Networking: Bourbon Tasting, Captain's Table, Holiday Gala Charity Event, and many more.

In addition to a calendar full of activities, we provide the best of care, courtesy of our highly trained, compassionate team members.

Included in our community setting are opportunities for fine dining, club rooms, a salon, a theater, and much more.

Call with any questions you may have or, better yet, schedule a tour. Remember, socialization opportunities abound at Discovery Village in Palm Beach Gardens.