Aging adults are often more likely to experience loneliness.
They have a harder time finding social connections and depend on other people to get through their everyday life.
There are ways to check up on a senior and make sure they are not experiencing loneliness.
Some signs of loneliness are:
1. Leaving home less frequently
Seniors are less likely to be able to drive and get around alone. Taking away someone’s transportation already makes it more difficult to do anything. Some elderly people feel as if they are inconveniencing others when asking for help or a ride, meaning they are more likely to isolate themselves.
2. Change in communication
Both an increase and decrease in phone calls can be a sign of loneliness in aging adults. Seniors who increase their calling frequency are often reaching out and want to socialize and feel better. Others who decrease their call frequency may feel left out or forgotten and will not make that first effort to reach out.
3. Mood changes
Mood changes are common in everyone experiencing loneliness, especially in seniors. A lack of patience or an increase in sadness can be caused by loneliness. Sometimes they have a hard time dealing with loneliness and need a way to show it and express themselves.
4. Memory Loss
Not remembering a family member, or a special occasion can be lonely. Seniors who experience memory loss are more likely to feel as though they are being left out or missing out on what is happening. They are also more likely to feel like a burden and not be as engaging.
5. Long showers
Researchers have found that hot showers and baths are correlated to loneliness. People experience a sense of physical warmth while in the shower which can make them feel as if they are not as alone. Excessively long hot baths or showers are a big sign of being lonely.
