Loneliness May Be Hazardous
To Your Health
by Sheryl Karas M.A.
Social isolation and loneliness is a major contributing factor in all kinds of illnesses. A famous study exposed paid volunteers to a cold virus and then recorded how many actually came down with symptoms. It was found that those who described themselves as more lonely or isolated were far more likely to get sick. Other studies have shown that loneliness increases the risk of heart disease and cancer and reduces the life expectancy of those already diagnosed. A recent article in Science News reported last week that people who live alone are 50% more likely to develop dementia than others and that those who live alone and have no friends are 60% more at risk. It is my opinion that loneliness is probably more dangerous than smoking, lack of exercise and poor diet combined and there are some physicians who are beginning to agree.
Dr Dean Ornish became famous for his multi-faceted program for recovery from heart disease. It included a very strict diet, exercise, meditation and support group participation. He had tremendous results and assumed that the most important factors were the exercise and diet plans. However, his follow-up research did not bear this out. In his most recent book Love and Survival he writes that he is now convinced that, although diet and exercise is important to the success of his program, the single most effective factor seems to be the support group. People who feel loved and cared for thrive.
It is theorized that having only one strong social bond isn't as effective as having a variety of social relationships which is why a support group can be so effective. Strong family relationships or church and community ties are equally helpful. So my question to you all today is: how are your friendships and social ties? Is there a way they could be strengthened? Are there social activities you would like to try but keep putting off? Make social activity a priority and see how it affects your life. It's well worth the effort over time.
How To Help A Lonely Elder
Everyone feels lonely from time to time but the elderly are at a greater risk because most of their loneliness comes from long established habits combined with the loss of longtime friends and companions.
The key to breaking isolation is to very slowly and gently add activities that get the lonely person into the presence of others. In addition to extra contact from existing family and friends, start with activities that are easy to participate in such as church services or special interest classes. Senior centers offer a variety of activities especially geared towards seniors but Santa Cruz is also rich in adult education opportunities ranging from Parks and Recreation classes to community education courses at the University or Cabrillo College. If travel was always a source of pleasure try group tours or day trips. If the person enjoys reading try the public readings and book signings presented by local bookstores. If the person used to gain pleasure by caring for others (children or a spouse) consider volunteer opportunities with a social service agency or child care center. Even a part-time job can make a difference.
For very frail or housebound seniors, an adult day program that includes transportation and medical supervision might serve the purpose. (In Santa Cruz, try Elderday 458-3481 and Cindy's Celebrations 479-7509). If the person truly can't or won't leave the house, it is possible to arrange for a volunteer or paid companion to visit there. Try a Friendly Visitor program (427-5070) or Senior Companion (475-0816 ext. 10). Many others find that what they need most is to live with other people -- try assisted living or retirement communities or rent out a room to another senior citizen or college student (Senior Network Services Shared Housing Program 462-6788). In Santa Cruz it is even possible to try out having a housemate for a very short time by offering a room to a visiting professor or foreign exchange student for one semester or by providing space for a Shakespeare Santa Cruz performer for the summer. (458-3506)
Caregiving Articles
A new version of this article can be found in Sheryl’s latest book The Spiritual Journey of Family Caregiving.
© Copyright 2007 Sheryl Karas & Paul Hood
Caregiving Articles