Journal of Psychiatry

The Impact of Social Isolation on the Mental Well-Being of Older Adults

Mayron Diotaiuti^* Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Cassino, Italy
^*Correspondence: Mayron Diotaiuti, Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Cassino, Italy, Email:

Received: 25-Sep-2023, Manuscript No. JOP-23-23767; Editor assigned: 27-Sep-2023, Pre QC No. JOP-23-23767(PQ); Reviewed: 17-Oct-2023, QC No. JOP-23-23767; Revised: 24-Oct-2023, Manuscript No. JOP-23-23767(R); Published: 01-Nov-2023, DOI: 10.35248/2378-5756.23.26.638

Description

Social isolation and loneliness are serious public health risks that affect many older adults in the world. Social isolation refers to the lack of contact or interaction with other people, while loneliness is the subjective feeling of being alone or unwanted. Both conditions can have negative consequences for the physical and mental health, quality of life, and longevity of older adults.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 14% of adults aged 60 and over live with a mental disorder, and these conditions account for 10.6% of the total disability among older adults. The most common mental health conditions for older adults are depression and anxiety, which can be exacerbated by social isolation and loneliness. Moreover, social isolation and loneliness can increase the risk of cognitive decline, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease, as well as other serious medical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and a weakened immune system.

Risk factors for social isolation and loneliness in older adults

Bereavement: Losing a spouse, partner, family member, or friend can be a traumatic experience that can trigger feelings of grief, sadness, and loneliness. Older adults may also face difficulties in coping with the loss and adjusting to the changes in their lives.

Retirement: Leaving the workforce can result in a loss of income, social status, purpose, and identity. Older adults may also experience a reduced sense of belonging and connection with their former colleagues and peers.

Mobility impairment: Physical limitations, chronic pain, frailty, or disability can affect the ability of older adults to participate in social activities and access community resources. Older adults may also face barriers such as lack of transportation, inaccessible environments, or inadequate services.

Ageism: Older adults may encounter discrimination, prejudice, or stereotyping based on their age, which can affect their selfesteem, dignity, and respect. Ageism can also limit the opportunities and choices of older adults in various domains such as health care, education, employment, and media.

Social isolation and loneliness are not only influenced by external factors, but also by individual factors such as personality, coping skills, social support, and cultural background. However, there are various interventions that can help older adults enhance their social connectedness and wellbeing, and overcome the negative effects of social isolation and loneliness on their mental health. These interventions include engaging in meaningful and productive activities, maintaining social relationships, seeking professional help, and promoting positive attitudes.

• Older adults can benefit from participating in activities that match their interests, abilities, and values. These activities can provide them with a sense of purpose, achievement, and fulfilment. Examples of such activities include volunteering, learning new skills, pursuing hobbies, or joining clubs or groups.

• Older adults can maintain or strengthen their existing social ties with family members, friends, neighbors, or others who share similar experiences or backgrounds. They can also seek out new social contacts through online platforms, community events, or mutual aid networks.

• A group of volunteers in Brooklyn, New York City that provides various forms of assistance to their neighbors, such as grocery delivery, prescription pickup, food pantry support, and phone check-ins. They also organize fundraisers, community events, and advocacy campaigns.

• A global network of cooperatives that aims to create a new type of economy based on mutual support, skill sharing, and resource pooling. They offer online platforms, tools, and trainings for people to collaborate on projects that address their needs and aspirations.

• A grassroots network of volunteers that responds to natural disasters and humanitarian crises in the United States and beyond. They provide direct relief, solidarity, and mutual aid to affected communities, as well as education and training on disaster preparedness and resilience.

Conclusion

Older adults who experience persistent or severe symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions should seek professional help from qualified health care providers. They can also access various mental health resources such as counseling services, support groups, or helplines. Older adults can adopt positive attitudes toward ageing and themselves by challenging negative stereotypes and beliefs about older age.

They can also practice gratitude, optimism, and self-compassion to enhance their emotional resilience and coping skills. Social isolation and loneliness are not inevitable consequences of ageing. They are modifiable risk factors that can be prevented or reduced by addressing their underlying causes and promoting protective factors. By improving their social wellbeing and mental health, older adults can enjoy a better quality of life and contribute to society in meaningful ways.