Caregiver Corner - Social Isolation
Every individual will experience some degree of loneliness at some point in their lives. Older people are particularly vulnerable to experiencing loneliness and social isolation. Half of individuals aged over 60 are at risk of social isolation and one-third will experience some degree of loneliness later in life.
Loneliness and social isolation are risk factors for multiple health conditions comparable to other risk factors such as smoking, lack of exercise, obesity and high blood pressure. In addition, loneliness has been associated with decreased resistance to infection, cognitive decline and mental health conditions such as depression and dementia.
When we are caregivers, it is essential to ensure that the person for whom we provide care isn’t socially isolated. Also it is important that we don’t become socially isolated ourselves, as we focus our attentions on our loved ones. All too often, caregivers cut themselves off from friends, clubs, extended family as their preoccupation is the loved one for whom they care. Social activities may seem frivolous when there is so much work to be done when caring for another person. Just the opposite is true however. To remain a healthy caregiver it is essential that you remain socially engaged and that your loved one also has opportunities for social engagement with people in addition to you. Social engagement will not only decrease risk factors for ill health, it will also increase the quality of life for you and your loved one.
Dr. Nicholas Nicholson, Quinnipiac University, provides a support program for individuals who are experiencing social isolation. For more information, contact Dr. Nicholson at nicholas.nicholson@quinnipiac.edu or call 203-582-6542.
