By Charles J. Fuschillo Jr.
We are in the midst of a growing public health crisis, one that especially impacts senior citizens. Fortunately, everyone can take an active role in solving it, not just scientists, researchers and health care professionals.
Loneliness and social isolation are widespread. One in three American adults reported feeling lonely, while one in four conveyed having no social and emotional support, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
This goes far beyond occasional feelings of loneliness or disconnect that everyone experiences periodically, or briefly going off the grid to recharge the body and mind. Someone who is socially isolated has few relationships and little contact with others, while those who are lonely feel like they lack meaningful or close relationships or a sense of belonging.
Research shows that prolonged loneliness and social isolation increase the risk of numerous health conditions, including cognitive decline and memory loss, depression, anxiety, stress, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. They can also make existing illnesses worse; someone with Alzheimer’s disease, for example, may have accelerated symptoms due to lack of social and mental stimulation. For caregivers, they can lead to caregiver burnout.
Regular social engagement helps stimulate the brain and support cognitive health, improves mood, encourages physical activity and better sleep, and strengthens emotional resilience. As is the case with other lifestyle choices — healthy diet, exercise, proper sleep, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption — prioritizing or neglecting it influences numerous facets of health.
Loneliness and isolation occur in people of all ages, and senior citizens are especially susceptible. Older adults isolate for many reasons. Some live alone after the loss of a spouse, and don’t have relatives or close friends nearby. Others face mobility issues, such as not being able to drive and lacking alternative transportation, or have a health condition that makes going out harder. Mobility challenges are even more problematic on Long Island during the winter, when the weather makes leaving the house harder. Fear, embarrassment and self-consciousness can also lead people to withdraw.
Technology can partially bridge the gap, but not all seniors feel comfortable using video calls, smartphones or social media. Without support and training, many are left disconnected from family, friends and the larger community.
An estimated 111,000 Long Islanders ages 65 and older — roughly one out of every five seniors — live alone, according to Newsday. Fortunately, there are a variety of free resources available to help them strengthen social bonds and stay connected.
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America offers free daily activity programming at its AFA Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource Center in Amityville, including music, creative arts, rhythm and movement, and brain games. The activities are dementia-friendly, but you don’t need to have a dementia-related illness to participate; programming is open to all seniors. Learn more and view upcoming free activities at afalongisland.org, or call the center at (631) 223-4000.
Municipal senior centers offer programs and opportunities to socialize with other nearby residents. Local libraries offer activities, social gatherings and group outings, many of which center on learning about or trying something new, an added benefit for brain health. Religious institutions often have social groups for their congregations and the community.
Look into these and other options if you’re feeling lonely, and find something you might enjoy. It may require you to step out of your comfort zone, but chances are it will be worth it.
We can all take small steps in our daily lives that will make a big difference. Visit or call someone instead of texting or emailing them (especially if they’re older); it will help both of you feel more connected. Encourage someone to take advantage of the services described above, and go along with them to help them break the ice. Check in with family, friends and elderly neighbors periodically to see if they need anything; that simple act will remind them that someone is thinking of them, and promote feelings of connectivity.
Social connection isn’t a luxury — it is essential for maintaining physical health, cognitive function, emotional well-being and overall quality of life. Unlike other health conditions, loneliness and isolation can’t be cured or medicated with pills. Helping hands and warm hearts are the necessary treatments. Every one of us can provide them.
Charles J. Fuschillo Jr., of Merrick, is president and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.
