Older Americans are blessed to have access to incredible medical services. The innovations and discoveries in the medical field have lengthened the lives of millions in this country but many older Americans will continue to suffer health related issues due to the “Loneliness Factor.”

1. The Loneliness Factor
By : Karen Everett Watson

2. Older Americans are blessed to have access to incredible
medical services.
The innovations and discoveries in the medical field have
lengthened the lives of millions in this country but many older
Americans will continue to suffer health related issues due to
the “Loneliness Factor.”

3. Many research studies conclude that isolation in elders has
a significant impact on their physical and mental health.
• Isolation dramatically increases morbidity rates in the elderly,
not to mention the devastation to their quality of life.

4. So, are your efforts to keep your older patients healthy
being thwarted by the “Loneliness Factor”?

5. Many factors contribute to elders isolating themselves.
• As we age, many of us experience health related issues such
as incontinence, vision impairments, and balance deficits.

6. • These physical limitations can cause many older people to
isolate.
• The embarrassment of incontinence or lack of balance can
keep them from getting out and interacting with their friends
and loved ones.
• For those who have suffered a fall, they may choose to just
stay confined to their homes because they fear falling again.

7. Diminished eyesight is followed by the inability to drive,
which isolates many older adults, especially those who live
in a rural setting.

8. Older people are more likely to suffer the loss of a spouse
or of dear friends.
• Depression from grief or illness will often make older people
recluse – which can lead to multiple quality of life issues.
• Some older women never learned to drive, and when their
husbands die, they find themselves unable to attend social
functions or normal activities that facilitate human
interactions.
• Isolated seniors, especially men, have a much higher rate of
suicide.

9. Health professionals can help the isolated senior by
recognizing the symptoms.
• Just knowing that certain health issues often lead to isolation
can be the cue for doctors, and health care managers to
inquire further into the patient’s activities.

10. Education can help many understand the consequences of
isolation. Isolated older people are much more likely to require
assisted living which is something our independent seniors fear.

11. Interventions for the isolated have been found effective.
• Physical therapy can help those who fear falling.
• Self-help classes can ease depression and help those through
their grief while exposing them to positive social interactions.
• Physicians can strongly encourage exercise classes for the
positive health benefits, knowing the human connections can
be just as beneficial.

12. Family connections remain the most cherished for older
adults, so if at all possible, doctors should encourage their
patients involve their family members in their lives.

13. For patients that are basically
healthy, volunteering can be a
wonderful way to help others
while helping themselves.
•Older people who volunteer are
healthier physically and mentally.
•Older volunteers are also less
likely to suffer from dementia.

14. For the more frail patients, in-home care can often relieve the
“Loneliness Factor.” Good caregivers, whether they be a
professional or a family member, can be the best medicine
possible for a lonely shut-in.
• And while many older people dismiss the idea of assisted
living, it can be a life saver for many of them.
• The social activities and physical exercise fostered at assisted
livings can engage and enhance the lives of many.

15. Find Quality Care Now
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